Meet Our Expert Therapists-
Your Partners in Healing

At Healing Connections Counseling, our dedicated team of therapists specializes in EMDR, CBT, and other evidence-based approaches to help you overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. We work with kids, teens, and adults, providing personalized care to support you on your journey. Get to know the compassionate professionals who are here to help you!

Joshua Holmes, LCSW

Owner/Director

Areas of specialization: Trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety

Ages 16 and up

Life can be challenging. The situations that it presents often feel overwhelming and knowing where to turn and what to do can feel as though it is consuming our energy, thoughts, time and happiness. As a therapist I have focused on developing skills to assist in overcoming these challenges that often take the form of anxiety, depression, and trauma.

I have been trained in EMDR therapy to assist with treating these uncomfortable conditions and begin the process of healing. This treatment focuses on identifying unhelpful thought processes and the uncomfortable emotions that accompany them. It then works to alter these unhelpful beliefs and leaves a sense of peace and relief from feeling overwhelmed. I invite anyone who feels as though life’s challenges are consuming their thoughts, feelings, time and energy to acknowledge that there is a way out. I encourage you to make the decision to reduce suffering and begin the process of healing though psychotherapy. It can be life changing. 



Chera Mann, LCSW

Owner/Director

Areas of specialization: Trauma/PTSD, Sexual abuse, Dissociation, Parenting 

Ages 14 and up

As a therapist, I am committed to helping you find the real reasons that you are feeling stuck. Together, we will uncover the root of the problem so that when change happens you don’t go back to where you were before. Whether you have past trauma or current life situations that are holding you back from living your best life, I am here to be your ally. As a compassionate therapist, I will help you to feel comfortable and accepted while helping push you to become your best self

In addition to EMDR, I am trained in IFS, DBT, attachment, and mindfulness-based approaches to help you maximize the enjoyment that can be found in your life. I truly believe that everyone can have happiness- you just have to know where to look to find it. 




Amy Brown, LCSW

Therapist

Areas of specialization: Narcissistic abuse, anxiety, trauma, teens, behavioral issues, DBT

Ages 6 and up

Seeking therapy can be a difficult step, but it can truly change your life. As a therapist I am kind, calm, and loyal. I am validating and a good listener, which helps my clients to trust me. I am gentle in my approach, but I say the things that need to be said to help you reach your goals. I have specialized experience working with anxiety, depression, suicide ideation, self-harm, and trauma. I also have worked with many families to improve relationships and healthy attachment.

I have been trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and TF-CBT to help people overcome trauma and gain a sense of control over their emotions and behaviors. I work with adults and children ages 6 and older.  




Brandon Nielsen, LCSW

Therapist

Areas of specialization: ADHD, behavior issues, teens, self-harm, suicide ideation, Trauma, DBT

Ages 8 and up

I am therapist that is dedicated to helping adolescents and adults create a life worth living. I have spent the last 10 years specializing in treating clients with symptoms related to anxiety, depression and trauma. I am comfortable working with teens who experience problems with self-harm and suicidal thoughts. As a therapist, I am friendly, genuine, and kind. I use humor and a more relaxed style of engagement to help people feel at ease while approaching difficult topics and taking the steps to change.


I use DBT, CBT, and EMDR to help people change their lives. I believe that everyone has the ability to improve their lives if they are given the right tools and support. I am realistic in my approach and help my clients to make real changes using skills that have been researched and proven to make a difference. 



Jayden Freeman, LCSW

Therapist

Areas of specialization: Young Adults, High Functioning Anxiety, Trauma, Behavior Problems, Sexual Trauma, ERP

Ages 16 and up

Coming to therapy can be such a beneficial part of life when it comes to solving problems, reaching goals, and addressing issues that you are facing. As a therapist, I am here to help you do all of those things using your own strengths, actions, and desires to help sculpt and change your life. There are many challenges we face every day in life, and there is no reason you should have to face them alone.

I am trained in EMDR and CBT, and have worked with people from all ages and walks of life. I have years of experience working with youth who are experiencing issues that are impacting their ability to be successful in school, at home, and in their relationships with peers and family members.

Dealing with life’s challenges can feel like its occupying your attention and taking time away from the many things you would like to do. I encourage you to reach out and learn about how you can address those challenges so that you can focus on the things that make you happy. 




Liz Geldmacher, LCSW

Therapist

Areas of specialty: Trauma, relationship issues, couples, behavior management, high functioning anxiety, work stress/burnout

Ages 14 and up

We all have lenses (like a pair of glasses) through which we view life. No two pair of lenses are the same. We have developed these lenses over time, for various reasons as we have lived out our “story.” Some lenses have served us well, while others have not. With over 10 years of experience as a therapist I can provide you with a new perspective and improve your vision of what is possible in your life. As a therapist, I am compassionate, kind, and direct.

I am passionate about helping people who are seeking help for problems with anxiety, depression and trauma. I also have experience working with at-risk youth and individuals who have problems with substance abuse. I am trained in several modalities and am proficient in CBT and EMDR.





Taylor Welty, CSW

Therapist

Areas of specialization: Trauma, EMDR, anxiety, depression, young adults, life changes, co-dependence, narcissistic abuse

Ages 14 and up

We all want to live fulfilled and successful lives. When we fall short of that it’s often because we lack in a skill set. Lucky for us- humans are adaptable! We can change the way we think, feel and behave and learn new skills that better serve us. I strive to connect genuinely with my clients in order for therapy to be a safe space for change to take place.

I prioritize meeting my clients where they are at while still empowering them to grow. CBT, DBT and EMDR are among the evidence-based practices I utilize with clients. These modalities increase capacity to navigate trauma as well as teach skills to alleviate mental and emotional challenges.

I have experience working in substance abuse treatment settings and have most recently spent time in a school district working with children and adolescents. I value connection, growth and prevention. 



Matysen Evensen, CSW

Therapist

Areas of specialty: Teens, Anxiety, Family Issues, LGBTQIA+, Kids, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Ages 5 and up

As a therapist, I believe you are the expert in your own life. I’m here to offer the guidance and support needed to help you get moving forward. My approach recognizes that we are shaped by our environments and choices. My style is personable and compassionate. I encourage extending the healing process beyond the therapy space to include relationships, nature, hobbies, and other things that you find meaningful.

I value a balanced and holistic approach to therapy, employing personalized, strengths-based techniques to guide individuals through all life factors. My practice draws from DBT, CBT, ACT, and Solution-Focused Therapy.

With experience working with adolescents in outpatient, residential, and school settings, I also support LGBTQIA+ clients and people experiencing anxiety and depression. Additionally, I have experience working with children and family systems ages 5 and up.



Stefanie Petersen, LCSW

Therapist

Areas of specialty: Trauma, behavior management, anxiety, teens, depression

Ages 15 and up

With 12 years of experience as a mental health therapist, I am passionate about helping  individuals navigate life’s challenges and find meaningful change. I work with both adults and adolescents, creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.

I take a strengths-based approach, believing that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing. Whether you’re working through anxiety, trauma, life transitions, or other struggles, I tailor therapy to fit your unique needs. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a powerful tool for processing trauma and overcoming barriers to healing.

My goal is to provide a therapy experience that feels approachable, effective, and empowering—helping you move forward with clarity and confidence



Bryce Bexell, MSW-I

Therapist intern

Areas of specialization: CBT, Teens, Adults, thinking problems, anxiety, depression

Ages 15 and up

Overthinking Everything? Struggling to Stay on Track? Let’s Fix That. Your mind won’t slow down.

You second-guess yourself constantly, overanalyze conversations, and feel like you’re always one step behind. Maybe you struggle with impulsive decisions, procrastination, or keeping up with responsibilities. Whether it’s anxiety, ADHD-like behaviors, or years of just white-knuckling through life, you’re exhausted. And you’re ready for a real change. If you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed and ready to take back control, let’s get started. You don’t have to keep spinning your wheels – I can help.

Outside of therapy, I enjoy hiking, running, reading, traveling, and spending time with my son. And if I’m not doing that, you’ll probably find me at a poker table (because therapy and strategy games have more in common than you’d think).