Substance Use Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

Many come to therapy knowing only that they are struggling to get things done, their relationships have become a source of stress rather than comfort, or they need help processing trauma, loss, or other painful experiences impacting their daily lives. Whatever your circumstances, I strive to help each person or family I work with achieve greater emotional, psychological, and social well-being, while also alleviating symptoms. I use the power of storytelling and understand that each person I work with has many, important stories to tell. I also value and work with each person's nervous system in the healing process.

I believe that understanding, accepting, and committing to our values is an integral part of recovery and creating a meaningful life. I aim to provide tools and support that allow individuals to resolve their past and thrive in the present. My professional experience and training is focused on providing advocacy and guidance for adults seeking management and relief from PTSD, substance use concerns, mood and anxiety disorders, and personality disorders.

All of us enter into our own unique journey in life, and while on this journey, we experience a multitude of emotions. Sometimes these feelings are overwhelmingly difficult to process, express, and navigate. And oftentimes we don't want to feel these emotions at all, which may manifest itself through self-defeating thoughts and behaviors. I am here to provide a comforting and nonjudgmental space for people to work through, not around, parts of the journey that are distressing and painful. I utilize an eclectic combination of well researched therapeutic techniques and, at times, less traditional approaches when helping others.

There is no "one size fits all" in effective therapy. While we may be all facing some common stressors, each person, couple, or family is different and I adapt accordingly to help foster growth and wellness that fits your life. I am committed to creating a genuine and supportive environment to explore your goals, feelings, and stuck points by integrating a variety of evidence-based modalities. Together we will alleviate stress and interpersonal strain, build balance, and promote long-term wellness. Please visit my website at www.brennamcgee.com for additional information and I look forward to meeting you!

Choosing a therapist that is a good fit for your specific needs, values, and methods for change can be challenging. There needs to be a comfort level and fit that will foster a positive and effective working relationship. The therapist's education, experience, competency, and certification, are essential to promoting positive outcomes. I have been working with women, men, couples, and families for 20+ years and have learned so much from clients regarding their concerns, hopes, dreams, and methods of change. My approach is Collaborative, Strengths-Based, and Solution-Focused.

My main passion is working with individuals with dual-diagnosis or co-occurring substance use concerns along with an array of mental health disorders. I have a specific passion working with those who have experienced trauma or have been diagnosed/have concerns related to a personality disorder. I have worked with individuals with both substance and sexual addictions and find great passion in being able to work with individuals to help them implement changes and shape their lives towards a life worth enjoying.

Life can be difficult to navigate at times but you do not have to do it alone. In our work together I wont try to fix you, tell you what to do, pretend I know more about you than you do or assume what’s best for you. However, I will remind you that you aren't broken, give you room to access your own wisdom, support you in figuring out what to do, recognize that you are the expert on your own life and collaborate with you on how to make the hard stuff easier to sit with. My aim is to provide a judgment free space where you can feel safe, important, seen and know that your words and experiences are valued and believed.

We all encounter challenges that can lead to feeling overwhelmed, stuck, lost, or anxious. I believe through trusting, compassionate relationships and connecting with the wisdom of the body and the inner Self, it is possible to find freedom, growth, and fulfillment. I have 15 years of counseling experience as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug counselor working with substance use , trauma, and relationships and am completing my training in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have experience working with individuals, families, and couples middle school age and older.

Many of us struggle with emotions and thoughts we don't know how to cope with, and behaviors we don't feel good about - and we don't know how to change this. It's difficult and frustrating to feel stuck. Working with a therapist provides support and connection as we learn to cope and promote change. Whether we wish to process issues from our past, address challenges in our present, or to create a hopeful future - therapy is a validating and affirming space.

Sometimes in life we can feel like we have no control over what is happening, the paths our relationships are taking, or what the future might have in store for us. We can get to a place where we are stuck in a continuous cycle of negative thinking, gloomy feelings, and ineffective behaviors. I provide therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship changes/separation, substance use issues, stress management, academic challenges, sports/performance concerns, chronic illness, sexuality/gender identity issues, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum, and life balance.

Existing in this world is hard, especially if you’re shouldering the burden alone. There’s no shame in seeking support and there’s no time like the present to begin rewriting your story. Through personal exploration and a deep, honest evaluation of your surrounding environments, you can foster a sense of clarity and become better equipped to face the obstacles that life hands out.

Life can seem overwhelming at times which may lead to feelings of loneliness, pain, and fear. I work with clients and help them to be mindful in the present moment, utilize healthy coping skills during times of distress, regulate emotions, and teach individuals how to build and maintain healthy relationships with themselves and others.

*Immediate Appointments Available* If you're feeling stuck or seeking a safe, warm place to heal and grow, I can meet you there. We'll work together to identify and work through the concerns that are important to you and that are disrupting your ability to live your best life as your full self.

I believe we are all capable of discovering the best version of ourselves. My approach to therapy is relational and empathetic. I work in attunement with clients to help them constructively address problem areas. I believe therapy should be restorative; helping us find and foster the peace and inner resources we need to live fully. I provide EMDR (EMDRIA trained) and BrainSpotting therapies to help guide the healing process. *Please note, I do not accept health insurance payment. I am an in network provider with AtEase International, a nonprofit organization that directly funds mental health care for first responders.

I specialize in trauma focused EMDR, substance use issues, and the care and treatment of the LGBTQIA community including transgender folk. I have developed a practice serving this very vulnerable and under-served population including trans women of color. As a male to female transgender person and a mental health professional I provide culturally specific services to the LGBTQIA community. I am an expert in the care and treatment of people living with or at high risk for HIV. In addition, I work with youth and their families maintaining a family systems perspective meaning I involve the whole family when treating youth.

*Immediate Openings Available* **If you have reached out to me, please check your SPAM folder for an email from me** I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families in a joint effort to help build on strengths that each individual already brings to the table. I believe seeking therapy for any reason takes courage, and anyone can benefit from engaging in the therapeutic process.

I offer resources and counseling for substance use concerns including chemical dependency assessments, individual counseling, and assistance for friends and families dealing with the consequences of addiction. My services are available from initial assessment to recovery support following treatment. As an independent practitioner, I am able to provide options and referrals based solely on meeting your needs. I collaborate with you to find the best path forward - blending my expertise with your courage and desire to make changes in your life.

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.

I have 20 years' combined experience working with culturally, ethnically and generationally diverse clients in therapy, chemical use, restorative justice, and counseling children and families in need. I'm dedicated to enthusiastic, respectful and dynamic interactions as a means of creating and nurturing community interest. As a psychotherapist and LADC, I've worked with adults, adolescents, and families from all walks of life. My goal is to foster well-being in individuals and families. I seek to eliminate the stigma of shame and guilt associated with mental health and substance use , which leads to understanding, respectful conversations that enable healing.