SAINT PAUL
PSYCHOTHERAPY
Our Clinicians
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but we're here to help you find the perfect match. Each of our clinicians brings unique skills and expertise to the table, all focused on guiding you towards your mental health goals.
Take some time to browse our bios and websites. Learn about our specific areas of expertise, read about our different therapeutic approaches, and get a sense of each therapist's personality. Perhaps one of our bios will resonate with you, or maybe you'd like some further guidance.
If you're unsure where to start, don't hesitate to schedule a brief phone consultation. We're happy to chat with you, answer any questions you might have, and help you find the therapist who's the best fit for you.
Oliver Ross
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and the Clinical Director of Saint Paul Psychotherapy. In my clinical work I draw heavily on theoretical approaches that view therapy as an opportunity to participate in a healing relational experience. For me, spending time developing insight into one's self and patterns of coping is just as important as working towards participating in relationship in a way that is free and authentic. Despite the fact that therapy often requires facing our pain, for many of the people I work with therapy can be joyful. I bring my compassion, training, experience, and dedication to my work, and in exchange I ask that you take chances; try something different even if it makes you feel uncomfortable, be vulnerable even if it hasn't always worked for you in the past, and be curious even when doing so might reveal a difficult truth to face. My goal is to cultivate the conditions that make it feel possible to take these chances while challenging you both intellectually and emotionally.
Having been born and raised in St. Paul, I feel dedicated to the community which has given much to me. I've had the fortune of working with people across the metro in many different contexts, including crisis counseling, veteran’s residential rehab, in-patient substance abuse treatment, traumatic brain injury rehab, and university counseling. In my free time I enjoy making music, watching my birdbath (especially when there are birds in it), and biking with my friends. I find that it can often be helpful to have a brief conversation to see if it could be a good fit for therapy, so feel free to be in touch if you think that could be helpful.
Clinical Director
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Psychotherapist
Think of therapy as Kintsugi, the Japanese art of mending damaged pottery with gold. Like the repaired pottery, we learn to heal our inner cracks with self-compassion. Therapy uses our experiences to facilitate personal growth, expand awareness, cultivate empathy for ourselves and others, and experience wholeness. While challenging, it's a rewarding form of self-care that benefits both you and those around you.
My approach is tailored to each client, but always focused on creating a safe, supportive space for exploration. I bring a compassionate, honest presence to our sessions. Areas of focus include grief, loss, trauma, adult attachment issues, life transitions, body image, and blended families.
Prior to becoming a therapist, I spent 10 years as a small business owner and employer in St. Paul, working in horticulture, floral design, and landscape design.
As a lifelong resident, I'm deeply rooted in the St. Paul community and value both connection and quiet moments in nature. Outside of work, you'll find me cooking and sharing meals, appreciating the beauty and quirks of old houses, listening to podcasts, and slowly creating an edible haven for people and wildlife in my yard.
I am working under the licensed supervision of Dr. Oliver Ross while pursuing a Master's Degree in Counseling & Psychological Services at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota.
Stephanie Clausen-Stout
Joseph Graves
Psychotherapist
I believe that the more we try to change ourselves, the more we become stuck. My goal in our therapeutic process is to understand, as best as I can, what it’s like to be you. By exploring and understanding the obstacles that have hindered your growth a spontaneous process of change and healing emerges. I aim to support you on your unique journey of self-discovery as you navigate life’s challenges and the existential dilemmas we all face.
As a musician, I view the therapeutic relationship as a creative act. We will collaborate in the here-and-now, identify themes, and recognize the natural rhythms of life. We may challenge our perspectives, discover new meanings, and experiment with new forms of communication. I invite you to be open to exploring the unknown, to take risks, and to share a laugh or two along the way.
Outside the therapy room, you'll find me making music, enjoying stand-up comedy, and playing tennis with friends. If you're curious about whether we might be a good fit, let's connect on a brief call. You can ask any questions you have, and I can learn more about you.
I am working under the licensed supervision of Ryan Peterson LPCC, while pursuing a Master's Degree in Counseling & Psychological Services at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota.
Psychotherapist
Connecting, exploring, and problem solving are key concepts in effective psychotherapy. Part of connecting with another human being is having a genuine desire for a person to become their fullest self and wanting to support them with their problems. Understanding the complexity of problem solving and supporting with solutions has been a long-standing passion for me. I have done this since my early days of repairing cars, where it was necessary to “diagnose” a problem and understand the mechanics of what was, and was not working, and then develop a plan to make necessary adjustments. So it is with psychotherapy, with two major differences: people are not machines, and we can learn to live fulfilled lives even if the check engine light stays on. As the result of several experiences in my own life, I have gone from a desire to care for people’s vehicles, to a passion for helping people make necessary repairs in their own lives.
My approach emphasizes the importance of the Mind, Body, and Spirit, comprising each one of us, and the necessity for those components to be optimally healthy. Individuals in psychotherapy require an opportunity to tell their story and uncover dynamics that may contribute to their discomfort. Hopefully, beneficial changes occur followed by re-assessing where one is at or heading (problem solving). I tend to be a persistent person and would be a guide who sees an individual through “thick and thin.” Aiding in this developmental process is a deep belief that human beings are resilient and able to overcome adversity with the support psychotherapy offers.
I am working under the licensed supervision of Dr. Sean McEwen while pursuing a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota. Thank you for taking the time and considering the prospect of working together. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to ask.
Brice Dzubinski
Nguyen Vu
Psychotherapist, MA
When someone lets me sit with them, listen to their stories, and be a witness to their pains, bravery, and strengths, I consider it an honor and a privilege.
Through my personal and professional journey, I have learned, and wholeheartedly believe that every person already has what it takes in them to be content and happy. However, life has never been simple or easy, despite its beauty. Often we can lose sight of our unique and intrinsic strengths, beauty, and meanings when surrounded by the busyness of daily life, human suffering, and un-nourishing cultural messages.
I believe that meaningful changes in therapy arise primarily from the therapeutic relationship itself. I will show up to every conversation with respect, curiosity, empathy, and authenticity. My clients are the authors of their stories and of their own process of healing and growth. I see my therapeutic role as facilitator of a process of change through different modalities and practices such as existential conversations, exploration of the mind, mindfulness practices, experiential activities, and cognitive/behavioral exercises.
In every session, my goal is to hold a safe and compassionate space for my clients while maintaining a respectful curiosity to facilitate client’s experiences of their most free and honest selves.
If you’ve made it this far, I appreciate your time, and I’d love to hear from you. I understand that therapy is a big commitment and can be difficult for a variety of reasons, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to me for a brief conversation to see if I might be a good fit for your growth. I’m looking forward to our conversation.
I earned my Master's Degree in Counseling & Psychological Services at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota and am working towards licensure under the licensed supervision of Dr. Oliver Ross.
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have several years of experience working in different settings with a wide range of clients. I approach therapy from a collaborative and depth oriented approach. Therapy is a relationship that requires genuineness from both the clinician and the person seeking services. I work with clients to establish a strong foundational relationship that will then allow us to explore and uncover the things that have led to where my clients find themselves today. My goal is to create a relationship and environment where my clients feel they can look at the difficult areas of their life and understand the inner workings of experiences, relationships, and personal dynamics that influence the current state they find themselves in. It is important to me that the therapeutic process is an honest one, even in the times that honesty is not the easiest choice. To support this, I bring understanding and compassion to sessions in an effort to build the supportive environment people need to grow. To be successful in therapy, I encourage patients to take chances to try something new when other strategies don't seem to be working. I encourage vulnerability in sessions but also offer the grace people need to take the risk of being their true and vulnerable selves. In addition to supporting clients in understanding themselves more thoroughly, I integrate principles of DBT to aid in developing healthy coping skills.
I am originally from Oregon but had the privilege of moving to Minnesota in 2020. During my time in Oregon and Minnesota, I have gained several years of experience working with children and their families, in residential and inpatient mental health treatment serving adults, and in the legal system providing evaluation and treatment to individuals with legal involvement. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of diagnoses including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. In my free time I enjoy camping, fishing, and Minnesota sports.
Sean McEwen
Matthew Champ
Psychotherapist
The therapeutic process can be an intimidating journey full of challenging questions, uncomfortable insights, and confronting self-reflection. My goal is to join you on this journey and to create a partnership of safety, trust, and connection. We will craft a supportive environment that will help enable you to gain a better understanding of your motivations, your challenges, and how you show up to others in your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, self-doubt, relational problems, or finding your way in this world, self-exploration is the first step in enacting meaningful change. Together we will work to help you develop meaning in your life, build satisfying relationships, overcome your struggles that are holding you back, and identify your strengths that can push you forward.
I have had the privilege of working with a variety of communities in multiple contexts, from working with youth in wilderness settings, to community-based mental health care. I have a passion for working with teenagers, lost or wayward souls, and folks who may feel resistant to therapy or that therapy "isn't for them."
In my free time you can find me skiing, camping, playing with my dog, or enjoying the smell of my freshly mown lawn.
I am working under the licensed supervision of Dr. Oliver Ross while pursuing a Master's Degree in Counseling & Psychological Services at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, MPH
I am a bilingual psychotherapist for individuals and couples who have a range of life experiences and concerns. I work primarily face-to-face in St. Paul and offer phone or video sessions for people living in California and Minnesota. My approach to therapy emphasizes trust and awareness in the process of healing. I believe that therapy can be fun, challenging, and rewarding. I will honor your lived experiences, laugh with you, and support your growth.
I have worked in the criminal legal system, schools, and healthcare settings. With a background in music, dance, and creative arts, I am open to a wide range of human expression. I am committed to my own work around my identity and to the intrapersonal and community work we must do to deconstruct racism, classicism, and discrimination against the LGBT community. These issues are always with us - including in a therapy session! I have extensive experience working with people who use alcohol and other drugs. The work we do around substance use will focus on harm reduction, dignity and your own experiences of what is healthy and safe. I welcome work with families who are struggling with issues around alcohol and other drugs—including Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT).
I’m open to phone or email inquiries to see if you’re interested in therapy. I look forward to our work together.
Tobin Shelton
Ryan Peterson
Assistant Clinical Director
MA, LPCC
My style is to support you in connecting with and understanding your deepest agendas and to facilitate the expansion of your capacity to live authentically, with all the parts of yourself. Many people have an intuition of when it's time to make changes, but are uncertain about how to do this, or where to begin. I'll help you generate the right conditions for change by first working to thoroughly understand your inner landscape, and what it’s like to be you. I'll assist you in refining your own instruction manual, find a useful balance between self-acceptance and self-discipline, and live a more integrated life. I bring an open mind, open heart, curiosity, creativity, and sometimes playfulness into my therapy work.
I have experience working with a wide variety of people navigating major life transitions, identity evolution, and issues including depression, anxiety, shame, breakups, divorce, imposter syndrome, career questions, self-esteem, addiction, quarter-life crisis, midlife crisis, covert (negative) narcissism, and existential explorations. I have previous experience working in assisted living facilities, hospice work, drug and alcohol counseling, and real estate. I've lived in Wisconsin, California, and now Minnesota for the past 11 years. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, bike rides, podcasts, and spending time with my dog.
I have a warm and compassionate client-centered approach. I will support you to develop and maintain meaningful, intimate connections, get through stuck points, and to live authentically, at peace, and comfortable with what is inside you. We all have the natural tendency to grow and heal given the right conditions. My goal is to be a steadying, nonjudgmental presence alongside you in your healing journey. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is critical to therapy, and I will prioritize developing emotional safety and trust in our relationship. Some of my areas of interest include depression, anxiety, addiction, burnout, chronic illness, life transitions, relationship problems, stress management, and self-esteem. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I am both trained and currently obtaining certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an evidence-based approach to couples counseling. I also have many years of experience in the corporate world, and understand the stresses of trying to find work-life balance, navigating personality conflicts, work overload, communication challenges, and engaging in complex problem solving. These are additional areas of interest for me.
I have called the Twin Cities home for 16 years. I have a background in dance and athletics and believe strongly in the connection between mind and body. I enjoy spending time outdoors and keeping my cat out of trouble.
If you are curious about whether working together might be a good fit for you, please reach out and I would be happy to have an introductory call.
I earned my Master's Degree in Counseling & Psychological Services at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota and am working towards licensure under the licensed supervision of Dr. Oliver Ross.
Lauri Ink
Psychotherapist, MA, JD
Cliff Buhl
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
I look forward to meeting and hearing the story of each person who comes to therapy - and each journey is different. Therapy can go in may different directions; for some clients the work is in managing the day to day, for others it is working out grief and emotional challenges, and for others it is to improve the quality of their important relationships. Therapy can address a host of difficulties, from mental health conditions to emotional skills, existential meaning, or how to set healthy boundaries with others, to name just a few. I begin the process of therapy by helping the client set goals using treatment methods that are individualized to the client and the specific situation. Starting therapy is an act of courage, and facing our problems inevitably makes them better. In each case, it is when we shed shame, face fear, embrace our values, and hold ourselves accountable, that change can truly take hold in our lives.
I specialize in working with clients with anxiety disorders, PTSD, young adults, ADHD, and addiction. This is consistent with my previous professional experience working in college counseling and for Hazelden Betty Ford. My work with transgender and atheist populations is particularly important to me. Having spent nearly all my life living in the Twin Cities, I have great affection and regard for the community. I spend my free time with friends, playing my guitar, or reading. My work and this community are very important to me and I appreciate you taking the time to consider me in your search for a therapist.
I am usually the first point of contact for new clients. In my role, I work as a sort of matchmaker and help you connect with the right therapist at our clinic. With a background in the education field, my passion is to guide and support the development of the "whole person". In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors and in the company of friends and family. Cycling, hiking and writing are a few of my favorite things, both locally and while traveling.
Rachael Sand
Clinical Administrative Coordinator