Therapists in Forest Lake, MN

It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, job stress, grief, trauma related issues, chronic pain or addiction. I'm here to support you by developing a trusting relationship as you navigate the challenges of life. Being in the field for over a decade has provided me skills and insight to handle a multitude of issues. The experiences in your life are unique to you, which is why I strive to have a person-centered approach to empower you so you can reach your goal.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, job stress, grief, trauma related issues, chronic pain or addiction. I'm here to support you by developing a trusting relationship as you navigate the challenges of life. Being in the field for over a decade has provided me skills and insight to handle a multitude of issues. The experiences in your life are unique to you, which is why I strive to have a person-centered approach to empower you so you can reach your goal.

I help people improve their ability to cope with life by utilizing behavioral tools that foster personal change and growth. I focus on fostering a positive, non-judgmental environment while building trust. I build positive connections with my clients- sometimes through humor and laughter, other times through empathy and compassion. I tend to be more solution focused while assisting clients on maximizing the use of self. As a person who has worked in health care for several years I am able to assist clients in the utilization of community resource in order to achieve their optimal level of wellness.
I help people improve their ability to cope with life by utilizing behavioral tools that foster personal change and growth. I focus on fostering a positive, non-judgmental environment while building trust. I build positive connections with my clients- sometimes through humor and laughter, other times through empathy and compassion. I tend to be more solution focused while assisting clients on maximizing the use of self. As a person who has worked in health care for several years I am able to assist clients in the utilization of community resource in order to achieve their optimal level of wellness.

Hello. If you are looking for someone to support you through a difficult time, you can expect to receive compassion, healing and wisdom from me. I specialize in helping people heal from depression, anxiety, injury, divorce, trauma, abuse and other life difficulties. If you are interested in regaining or reaching new levels of accomplishment, I here to help you maximize your potential. You can expect a comforting environment with a personalized professional approach to making possibilities a reality. Counseling, education, professional and family consulting, parenting support services, biofeedback & mediation services offere.
Hello. If you are looking for someone to support you through a difficult time, you can expect to receive compassion, healing and wisdom from me. I specialize in helping people heal from depression, anxiety, injury, divorce, trauma, abuse and other life difficulties. If you are interested in regaining or reaching new levels of accomplishment, I here to help you maximize your potential. You can expect a comforting environment with a personalized professional approach to making possibilities a reality. Counseling, education, professional and family consulting, parenting support services, biofeedback & mediation services offere.

I help people who are stuck in painful cycles of conflict, who are ready to learn how to heal, break free and move forward. People who come to see me find that I have a keen ability to hear them from a deep-subconscious level; that I can help them become more self-aware and empowered into improving several areas of their life. More often than not, when I meet with people they feel like they have tried everything. That is why I don't believe in wasting peoples time, nor do I throw out unnecessary tools and tactics. This means that I am highly attentive to what realistically works best for you.
I help people who are stuck in painful cycles of conflict, who are ready to learn how to heal, break free and move forward. People who come to see me find that I have a keen ability to hear them from a deep-subconscious level; that I can help them become more self-aware and empowered into improving several areas of their life. More often than not, when I meet with people they feel like they have tried everything. That is why I don't believe in wasting peoples time, nor do I throw out unnecessary tools and tactics. This means that I am highly attentive to what realistically works best for you.

Debbie R. Johnson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
2 Endorsed
Forest Lake, MN 55025
Seeking someone to walk a difficult journey with you? Please do not hesitate to contact me. Life can be stressful and difficult. The past can continue to lurk in the corners of your life. Know that there is support available to walk with you; breath by breath, moment by moment, until the healing transpires. If past therapy has not brought about the change you seek, come in and try EMDR therapy that will assist you in seeking out those negative issues that continue to affect you and your relationships and what you feel about yourself. There is help and healing!
Seeking someone to walk a difficult journey with you? Please do not hesitate to contact me. Life can be stressful and difficult. The past can continue to lurk in the corners of your life. Know that there is support available to walk with you; breath by breath, moment by moment, until the healing transpires. If past therapy has not brought about the change you seek, come in and try EMDR therapy that will assist you in seeking out those negative issues that continue to affect you and your relationships and what you feel about yourself. There is help and healing!

Lakes Center for Youth & Families, Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Forest Lake, MN 55025
At Lakes Center for Youth & Families, we use a collaborative client-centered approach that’s designed to meet each client where they are at. Our offices provide an inviting comfortable environment and our therapists use creative strategies and evidence-based approaches to best serve our clients. We provide therapy to people of all ages, striving to equip people with the skills to heal traumas, manage symptoms, reduce stress, and improve their overall quality of life.
At Lakes Center for Youth & Families, we use a collaborative client-centered approach that’s designed to meet each client where they are at. Our offices provide an inviting comfortable environment and our therapists use creative strategies and evidence-based approaches to best serve our clients. We provide therapy to people of all ages, striving to equip people with the skills to heal traumas, manage symptoms, reduce stress, and improve their overall quality of life.

We are all trying to live a life that has meaning and worth. When our best efforts don't work, we may become "stuck". This is where a counselor can help you interpret and re-frame the issues to chart a path to help get "UNstuck". My goal in therapy is to create a safe place to talk about the issues and work towards a solution. Maya Angelou says it best: "You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them. If you cannot make a change, change the way you have been thinking. You might find a new solution."
We are all trying to live a life that has meaning and worth. When our best efforts don't work, we may become "stuck". This is where a counselor can help you interpret and re-frame the issues to chart a path to help get "UNstuck". My goal in therapy is to create a safe place to talk about the issues and work towards a solution. Maya Angelou says it best: "You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them. If you cannot make a change, change the way you have been thinking. You might find a new solution."

I have nearly 30 years of experience in the social services field, focusing on individuals with developmental disabilities and mental illness. I have also had extensive experience in legal guardianship, managed care, care coordination, and case management. Additionally, I am on the Board of Directors with NAMI MN.
While I enjoy working with clients of all ages, I have a special affinity for working with kids and teens. Additionally, I welcome clients of all ages and backgrounds and have experience working with LGBTQ+ clients.
I am dedicated to fostering therapeutic relationships that are safe and judgment-free.
I have nearly 30 years of experience in the social services field, focusing on individuals with developmental disabilities and mental illness. I have also had extensive experience in legal guardianship, managed care, care coordination, and case management. Additionally, I am on the Board of Directors with NAMI MN.
While I enjoy working with clients of all ages, I have a special affinity for working with kids and teens. Additionally, I welcome clients of all ages and backgrounds and have experience working with LGBTQ+ clients.
I am dedicated to fostering therapeutic relationships that are safe and judgment-free.

As you know, the therapeutic alliance or relationship you have with your therapist, is one of the most important components of successful treatment outcomes, regardless of the specific form of therapy that is employed. In other words, you need to look for a “good fit” for your specific needs, values and challenges that are before you. With that in mind, I have the following for your review. Past experiences: United States Navy, retired Minnesota State Trooper, ordained minister and adjunct faculty member at 3 different colleges. Don’t worry, I don’t give out tickets, nor make arrests, nor push my religious beliefs upon anyone.
As you know, the therapeutic alliance or relationship you have with your therapist, is one of the most important components of successful treatment outcomes, regardless of the specific form of therapy that is employed. In other words, you need to look for a “good fit” for your specific needs, values and challenges that are before you. With that in mind, I have the following for your review. Past experiences: United States Navy, retired Minnesota State Trooper, ordained minister and adjunct faculty member at 3 different colleges. Don’t worry, I don’t give out tickets, nor make arrests, nor push my religious beliefs upon anyone.

The headlines read : These are the worst of times (Styx,1981). At times our situations can be overwhelming and truly feel like the worst of times. Life can be painful and difficult and sometimes feels out of control. I help clients deal with a variety of “worst of times” including marital conflict, medical crisis or chronic illness, parenting issues, a difficult child/teen, anger, depression/anxiety, etc. I will help you to solve these and other issues, and work together to make lasting changes.
The headlines read : These are the worst of times (Styx,1981). At times our situations can be overwhelming and truly feel like the worst of times. Life can be painful and difficult and sometimes feels out of control. I help clients deal with a variety of “worst of times” including marital conflict, medical crisis or chronic illness, parenting issues, a difficult child/teen, anger, depression/anxiety, etc. I will help you to solve these and other issues, and work together to make lasting changes.

I will walk beside you on your journey in life. I help you assess yourself, your family, your spirituality, your work and play. You then make decisions as to what to do with your increasing discovery of you.
I will walk beside you on your journey in life. I help you assess yourself, your family, your spirituality, your work and play. You then make decisions as to what to do with your increasing discovery of you.

Life can feel overwhelming and challenging and choosing to move forward during these difficult times takes courage and strength. Making the decision to seek therapy to help navigate through life’s toughest challenges is a great first step. Emily takes a person-centered approach in working with individuals to empower and motivate each person as they focus on goals they have created for themselves to fulfill their own potential. Therapy is provided in a comfortable, safe and non-judgmental atmosphere that allows individuals to let their guards down, unpack their pain and struggles and create a plan to move forward.
Life can feel overwhelming and challenging and choosing to move forward during these difficult times takes courage and strength. Making the decision to seek therapy to help navigate through life’s toughest challenges is a great first step. Emily takes a person-centered approach in working with individuals to empower and motivate each person as they focus on goals they have created for themselves to fulfill their own potential. Therapy is provided in a comfortable, safe and non-judgmental atmosphere that allows individuals to let their guards down, unpack their pain and struggles and create a plan to move forward.

Do you often find yourself struggling to focus, feeling overwhelmed, or constantly playing catch-up despite your best efforts? Maybe you sense that something like ADHD, anxiety, or mood challenges is holding you back, but you’re unsure where to start or what’s really going on. You want clear answers and practical guidance so you can regain control, feel understood, and move toward a life where your frustrations don’t rule your days. You deserve clarity that helps you thrive, not just survive.
Do you often find yourself struggling to focus, feeling overwhelmed, or constantly playing catch-up despite your best efforts? Maybe you sense that something like ADHD, anxiety, or mood challenges is holding you back, but you’re unsure where to start or what’s really going on. You want clear answers and practical guidance so you can regain control, feel understood, and move toward a life where your frustrations don’t rule your days. You deserve clarity that helps you thrive, not just survive.

In our sessions, I strive to create a sanctuary—a space where you can explore your thoughts, dreams, and challenges without fear of judgment. I firmly believe that within you lies the wisdom and strength to move through the obstacles you are facing. I have a particular passion for working with creative individuals including musicians, visual artists, and writers.
In our sessions, I strive to create a sanctuary—a space where you can explore your thoughts, dreams, and challenges without fear of judgment. I firmly believe that within you lies the wisdom and strength to move through the obstacles you are facing. I have a particular passion for working with creative individuals including musicians, visual artists, and writers.

Hello there! I am a dually licensed therapist credentialed as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with training and experience in treating adults and teenagers with substance use and issues that effect mental health, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity confusion, and relationship challenges. Do you feel overwhelmed and unsupported? Have you developed unhelpful ways of coping with life's challenges? If this is you, I want to work with you. We'll examine what's wrong, begin to heal from the past, and create new ways of thinking and being.
Hello there! I am a dually licensed therapist credentialed as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with training and experience in treating adults and teenagers with substance use and issues that effect mental health, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity confusion, and relationship challenges. Do you feel overwhelmed and unsupported? Have you developed unhelpful ways of coping with life's challenges? If this is you, I want to work with you. We'll examine what's wrong, begin to heal from the past, and create new ways of thinking and being.

I provide compassionate care to individuals and couples who suffer emotionally. I will assist in clarifying the values that people struggle to identify and to put into action. I provide solution-focused therapy once barriers to successful living are identified. I find that a holistic, mind/body approach is essential to uncovering the solutions to life's problems. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is uniquely geared in affecting personal change and is a certified, evidence-based therapy approach.
I provide compassionate care to individuals and couples who suffer emotionally. I will assist in clarifying the values that people struggle to identify and to put into action. I provide solution-focused therapy once barriers to successful living are identified. I find that a holistic, mind/body approach is essential to uncovering the solutions to life's problems. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is uniquely geared in affecting personal change and is a certified, evidence-based therapy approach.

We know how important it is to have options when you decide to reach out for support. As a group of clinicians invested in your wellbeing, we provide individual and group counseling to adults, children (ages 4+), families, and couples. Because we cannot determine when life stressors or increasing mental health concerns will occur, you may be able to be seen the same day of your call.
We know how important it is to have options when you decide to reach out for support. As a group of clinicians invested in your wellbeing, we provide individual and group counseling to adults, children (ages 4+), families, and couples. Because we cannot determine when life stressors or increasing mental health concerns will occur, you may be able to be seen the same day of your call.

Do you ever feel like everyone around you has it all figured out while you’re just trying to keep your head above water? Are your thoughts often filled with relentless worry, sometimes even convincing you of things that aren’t true? Maybe it seems like no matter how much you try to forget about ‘it,’ it keeps resurfacing, disrupting your life – making it difficult to trust, feel, focus, dream, or enjoy life. You long for a day where you are free from all of this and want a therapist who truly understands and can help you heal from deep within. I might be that therapist...
Do you ever feel like everyone around you has it all figured out while you’re just trying to keep your head above water? Are your thoughts often filled with relentless worry, sometimes even convincing you of things that aren’t true? Maybe it seems like no matter how much you try to forget about ‘it,’ it keeps resurfacing, disrupting your life – making it difficult to trust, feel, focus, dream, or enjoy life. You long for a day where you are free from all of this and want a therapist who truly understands and can help you heal from deep within. I might be that therapist...

Heidi received her master’s degree for Family Therapy at St. Mary’s University. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology Criminal Justice from University of Northwestern. She is working towards licensure through the state of Minnesota as a marriage and family therapist. Heidi has been a Clinical trainee for two years and is seeking licensure in 2023. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, and adolescents and has experience in working with individuals with developmental/ physical challenges. She utilizes a collaborative and Narrative approach when treating clients.
Heidi received her master’s degree for Family Therapy at St. Mary’s University. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology Criminal Justice from University of Northwestern. She is working towards licensure through the state of Minnesota as a marriage and family therapist. Heidi has been a Clinical trainee for two years and is seeking licensure in 2023. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, and adolescents and has experience in working with individuals with developmental/ physical challenges. She utilizes a collaborative and Narrative approach when treating clients.

Eliana Grung is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor at LifeStance Health, dedicated to helping children and adolescents in Minnesota navigate emotional and behavioral challenges. She provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy to support young clients dealing with ADHD, anxiety, childhood behavioral issues, depression, PTSD, and school avoidance. By fostering a safe and understanding environment, Eliana empowers children and their families to build resilience and develop skills that promote emotional well-being.
Eliana Grung is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor at LifeStance Health, dedicated to helping children and adolescents in Minnesota navigate emotional and behavioral challenges. She provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy to support young clients dealing with ADHD, anxiety, childhood behavioral issues, depression, PTSD, and school avoidance. By fostering a safe and understanding environment, Eliana empowers children and their families to build resilience and develop skills that promote emotional well-being.
See more therapy options for Forest Lake
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Forest Lake, MN
40+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Forest Lake, MN who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Grief |
69% | Self Esteem |
67% | Relationship Issues |
61% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
78% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Forest Lake, MN see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Forest Lake?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.