Blue Cross Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

Making the choice to start therapy is not always an easy task and requires a lot of courage to ask for help. Whether your suffering stems from substance use issues, loss, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem, know that you are not alone. We all are trying to do the best we can to take care of ourselves but sometimes that can fall short. The good news is, therapy provides the space to reflect on old patterns, behaviors, and begin to ask ourselves, "Is this working for me anymore?" If the answer is no, let's take a look at it.

Psychotherapy is a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between you and Dr. Sandra Smith-Hanen. Dr. Sandra will help you to navigate life’s challenges in a supportive environment. It is her goal to help you to verbalize openly in a nonjudgmental atmosphere. Together you will work collaboratively to determine, adapt and develop a new mindset and behavioral actions to help you develop the needs and goals you want.

At Crown Medical Support Services Clinics, we understand that individuals have different needs for recovery. That is the reason we personalize the treatment to assist individuals to recover. Our opioid misuse specialist doctor and counselor will develop your treatment plan, based on the findings of our evaluation. We will work with you to assure your recovery, Our treatment options include confidential counseling to find out why you misuse opioid and we will develop compassionate ways to assist you quit. Our options include Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine and Counseling.

I accept all types of clients and specialize in LGBTQ+, Trauma, Divorce/Family Estrangement, Mood Disorders, and Couples Counseling.

Life hands us many experiences, some of which can be difficult to handle on our own. Whether you are struggling with issues beyond your control or with difficult aspects of your emotional experience, often healing is needed in order to feel content with life. Together we can identify what's contributing to current difficulties / dissatisfaction and then we can work together to develop your whole self, leading to a more balanced and content you.

Do you consider yourself an anxious person? Do you have a loud inner critic that runs your life? Does it prevent you from trusting yourself to make decisions? If you're nodding your head yes to these questions, you may find that you cope by seeking validation from others, people-pleasing, and striving for perfection. You've likely noticed these coping strategies only provide a temporary fix to your suffering. They leave you feeling discouraged and worried your life will look like this forever. You're so fed up with living in this cycle of self-criticism that makes you feel ashamed of the person you are.

Hello and welcome to the beginning of your healing journey! My name is Neko and I joined this field because I believe that life is a journey where invitations to heal, grow and prosper are constantly received.

I believe it takes courage to begin the process of change. With that spirit, I try to embody the African Proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” I believe we can all heal, change and grow, particularly when we have support and love in the process. I feel deeply honored to walk arm in arm in therapy with the clients I see. In both my therapeutic work and personally, I value humor, compassion, and sincerity. The therapist you choose is someone whom you’ve entrusted to build a safe and healing relationship.

I believe it's important to recognize all aspects of your being in the therapy process. This is why I integrate Western medicine (neuroscience, somatic methods and cognitive-behavioral therapy) with Eastern philosophy (Buddhist psychology and Ayurvedic medicine). My role is facilitator, guiding you in changing patterns, improving relationships, living authentically and being your best self. Here is a link to my online schedule to book at your convenience: https://www.schedulicity.com/scheduling/RAP54S

I work with adult clients and students who have anxiety, depression, work stress, relationships issues, grief & loss, life transitions, existential crises, mental disorders management, and chemical dependency issues. I work well with clients from the LGBTQIA+ community and those who have mood disorders. I will help you cope with and resolve painful and difficult situations with a knowledgeable, empathetic, and insightful approach that can gently challenge your perspective with wisdom, insight, and coping skills. I offer of free 15 minute consultation to prospective clients.

If you are reading this, chances are you are in some pain and are reaching out for some help. Taking the next step to schedule an appointment and discuss your life challenges can be daunting. I want to encourage you to do just that. You don't have to struggle alone.

As a therapist for individuals and couples, I provide a safe setting to develop self-awareness and understanding, and to explore a wider range of emotions. In my view, people have an innate drive to heal and develop, and some wisdom about how to go about this. But there are obstacles, and becoming aware of and finding ways to handle these obstacles can be a complex, at times difficult process. You may have had past experience with therapy that does not seem to go deep enough. We work to understand the underlying issues that cause distress.

Who doesn't want freedom in all aspects of life? I believe that true freedom comes from transformation of self from the inside out. We are not on this planet to struggle, rather to find the courage to let our light shine. If you are feeling stuck in your relationships, career, family, or any other aspect of life perhaps it is time for a change. Life is short.

My clients tend to be creative over-achievers who are seeking support to make positive changes to enhance their personal and professional lives. I specialize in substance use and/or mental health issues with an emphasis on co-occurring disorders. Exploring life satisfaction in the 8 dimensions of wellness is one approach I use to identify potential areas for change. Tapping into intrinsic motivation is a primary focus of treatment as we work collaboratively to identify strengths and set/implement goals. Areas of specialization are: forgiveness therapy, perfectionism, creative recovery and productivity coaching.

I have a special interest in working with issues of stress management, body image, grief and loss, relational conflict, and depression and anxiety, and believe trauma and adverse childhood experiences contribute greatly to these areas. I believe counseling services offer people a safe space to explore and express their obstacles, problems, and successes, and to discover solutions and potentials so they can be empowered to pursue their goals and passions. A supportive connection is the most important aspect of a strong therapeutic relationship.

As a therapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome their mental and emotional challenges so that they can live happy, fulfilling lives. My passion for this work stems from my belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to be their best selves and to achieve their full potential. Through education, training, and experience, I have developed a deep understanding of human psychology and behavior.