Lake Elmo: 651-379-0444 | Burnsville: 952-892-8495

Meet Our Counselors

Michelle Abbott, MA, LMFT


Clinical Therapist
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Education: MA – Argosy University

Specializing in: Marriage & Family, Play Therapy, Coaching Parenting Skills, Women’s Issues, Working with People with Disabilities and their Families, Depression & Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Spiritual Issues, Working with Ministers & their Families, Infidelity

Has experience in: Teaching, women’s ministries, and youth and drug rehabilitation counseling. Michelle is married to an ordained minister who is in a wheelchair because of Muscular Dystrophy. Michelle also has special expertise working with camps for people with disabilities.

Works with ages 4 through adult

Personal Mission Statement: I believe that there is hope for change for everyone. It is my desire to help my clients unburden themselves as we walk through the therapy process together.

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Marcus Bachmann, PhD


Clinic President, Clinical Therapist
Education: MA – Regent University, VA
PhD – Clinical Psychology, Union Graduate School, OH
Years of experience: 23

Specializing in: Marriage and Family, Depression/Anxiety, Anger Management, Family of Origin Issues, and Conference/Seminar Speaking.

Works with ages 5 and older

Personal Mission Statement: I believe my call is to minister to the needs of people in a practical, effective, and sensitive way. Christ is the Almighty Counselor. My wife and I are the parents of 5 children and have been foster parents to more than 20 children.

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Mari Tollefson-Boyd, MA, LMFT


Clinical Therapist, LMFT
Education: MA – Marriage & Family Therapy, Bethel Seminary, St. Paul, MN

Specializing in:Adolescent Issues & Parent Coaching/Support, Depression & Anxiety, Family Therapy, Grief/Loss/Terminal Illness, Marital/Relationship Issues, and Military Single/Families/Couples, Self Esteem/Personal Growth, Sexual Addiction/Compulsion/Dysfunction (Female & Couples).

Works with ages 12 and older

Personal Mission Statement: As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I have the privilege of walking beside adolescents, adults, parents & families during difficult and often confusing times of life. My goal is to be able to integrate faith, grace, and proven psychological principals as I strive to understand each person on a deep level. This is not just a business or a job. Helping people come to spiritual, emotional, and relational healing is my deepest passion.

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Jon R. Colombo, PhD, LP


Licensed Psychologist
Education: PhD – Clinical Psychology, Walden University
MA – Counseling and Psychological Services, St. Mary’s University of Minnesota
BA – Psychology, Northwestern College
Years of experience: 17 Years in the mental health field

Specializing in: Individual Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy,
Parent/Adolescent Conflict, Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder,
Trauma/PTSD/EMDR, Sexual Dysfunction, Sexual Compulsivity, ADD/ADHD, and
Psychological Testing.

Works with all ages (generally works with children in the context
of family therapy).

Personal Mission Statement: My mission is to provide my clients with the
opportunity to integrate their faith with effective psychological treatment. I
believe that effective therapy begins with a relationship of genuineness and
mutual respect, and I am delighted when my clients gain victory over the
complexities of life and relationships.

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Andrya Dieter, MA, PsyD


Clinical Therapist
Education: MA, PsyD, Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Family Psychology, Azusa Pacific University
Years of experience: 7

Specializing in: Marriage and Family issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/Grief/Loss, Women’s issues, Coaching Parenting Skills, ADHD, Behavioral Disorders, Adoption and Attachment Concerns, Major mental illness, Spiritual issues, and Children.

Works with ages: 1-70

Personal Mission Statement: I desire to be an instrument of grace, comfort, and truth that liberates and expands one’s heart to live fully the life that one has been called to live. Psalm 119: 32

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Marian E. Eckhardt, PsyD, LP


Licensed Psychologist
Education: PsyD – Clinical Psychology, Minnesota School of Professional Psychology
Years of experience: 8

Specializing in: Marian specializes in working with individual adults and couples. She enjoys working with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationship concerns, conflict resolution, communication skills training, eating disorders, grief and loss/adjustment issues, self esteem/assertiveness training, spiritual concerns, and women’s issues.

Works with ages: 18-100

Personal Mission Statement: I use a cognitive behavioral and insight oriented approach with a spiritual focus. I enjoy facilitating and encouraging growth in many areas – cognitive learning, emotional healing, relational strengthening, and spiritual growth. I believe that through knowledge, faith and dependency on God and His revealed truths one receives the strength and love to truly fulfill their life’s purpose.

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Linda Gale, MA, LMFT


Clinical Therapist
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Years of experience: 11

Specializing in: Marriage/Family/Relationships, Children/Parenting Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Grief/Loss, Trauma, Abuse, Women’s Issues, Spiritual Issues, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem.

Works with all ages 4 and older

Personal Mission Statement: As a Christ-centered therapist, my heart’s passion is to come alongside those seeking help with kindness, hope and compassion while providing guidance toward resolving issues enabling people to lead more fulfilling, balanced and enriched lives.

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Michael Griffith, MA, LICSW


Clinical Therapist
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
Education: MSW- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Years of experience: 23

Specializing in: Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Sexual Compulsivity, Trauma and Stress Coping, Conflict Resolution and Spiritual Growth Problems.

Works with ages 14 and older

Personal Mission Statement: My desire is to be used by God to offer people His mercy, encouragement and wisdom as they work through their difficulties and goals towards greater personal transformation.

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Joseph Hansen, PsyD, LP


Licensed Psychologist
Education: Psy.D – Clinical Psychology, Biola University, Rosemead School of Psychology, CA, MA – Clinical Psychology, Biola University, Rosemead School of Psychology, CA
Years of experience: 14

Specializing in: Marriage/Couples Therapy, Counseling for Pastors, Depression, Anxiety, Issues involving Anger/Control, Identity and Personal Growth.

Works with ages 16 and older

Personal Mission Statement: It is for freedom that Christ set us free.” I want to model the love and grace of the Father as I help men and women live in freedom and in truth.

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Tim Johnson, LICSW, LMFT


Clinic Director, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Edcuation: MSW (Master of Social Work), School of Social Work, University of Minnesota.
Years of experience: 30

Specializing in: Marriage and Family, Depression and Anxiety, Adolescents, Anger Management, Step Family Dynamics, Adoption Issues, Family of Origin Issues, Children (all ages), Abuse Recovery, and Pre-Marital Counseling.

Works with ages 3-70

Personal Mission Statement: It takes a lot of courage to come to a counseling
office and seek help. It is my responsibility through the power of the Holy Spirit
to address presenting needs with all the Grace the Lord has offered me.

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Kathryn Kimball, MA


NILD Educational Therapist, Level III
Education: MA – Christian Ministry, Regent University, Virginia Beach, VA, Educational Therapy Level III, National Institute of Learning Development, Norfolk, VA, Development, Norfolk, VA
Years of experience: 7

Specializing in: Educational Therapy, Testing and Assessment, Christian Ministry.

Works with ages 6 and older.

Personal Mission Statement: I want to provide Christ-centered Educational Therapy in a caring, professional way that addresses the underlying causes of learning disabilities. I want to further assist with recognition of emotional hindrances to academic and personal achievement. My heart is for the whole child, the whole individual, not just his/her academia. I want to offer a future and a hope for those who are struggling. (Jeremiah 29:11)

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Debra Kullberg, MA, LMFT, M.DIV.


Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Licensed Clergy
Education: MA – Adler Graduate School, Richfield, MN
Master of Divinity w/emphasis in NT Studies, Bethel Theological Seminary, St. Paul, MN
Years of Experience: 16

Specializing in: Individual, Couple, and Family Counseling, Premarital, Spiritual Direction/Pastoral Counseling, EMDR, Trauma, Depression and Anxiety, Chemical/Co-dependency/ACOA, Attachment Disorders, Adoption Issues, Children and Adolescents, Prostitution and Human Trafficking. Workshop/Conference/Retreat Speaker.

Works with all ages.

Personal Mission Statement: Jesus as the Son of God is the Savior, Healer, and intimate Lover of my soul. He invites those He calls to join Him on a personal journey to the Cross. Our entire being is healed and restored (body, soul, and spirit) as we surrender ‘our way’ for ‘His way.’ The “Crossroads” is there, the invitation open, the journey sacredly our own.  As a disciple of Jesus, I am honored to offer encouragement and support to those who decide. Jeremiah 6: 16

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Nancy Ludwig, MA, LP


Licensed Psychologist
Education: MA – St. Mary’s University
Years of experience: 25 plus

Specializing in: Depression/Anxiety, Bariatric Surgery Candidates, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Abuse Issues, and Major Mental Illness.

Personal Mission Statement: To begin with people where they are and work toward mental and spiritual healing. All wisdom comes from the Lord.

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Steven M. Lutz, PsyD, LP


Licensed Psychologist (LP)
Education: Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D)
Years of experience:20 +

Specializing in: Anxiety (including trauma), Depression, Marriage/Relational Counseling, Family Counseling, and Spiritual Issues.

Works with ages 15 and older

Personal Mission Statement: As a Christian Psychologist, my role is to come alongside and partner with clients through a journey of healing and renewed directions in life. My style involves an integration of warmth and compassion with a strong emphasis on personal responsibility and follow through. My Christian faith lies at the center of the work I do, yet I certainly do not force beliefs or values on clients.

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Debra Nelson, MA, LMFT


Clinical Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Education: MA – Counseling Psychology, University of St. Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapy, University of St. Thomas
Family Facilitative Qualified ADR Neutral
Graduate Studies in Dispute Resolution – Hamline
Years of experience: 18

Specializing in: Domestic Abuse Advocacy, Family and Juvenile Offender Mediation, Ministry, Adult Mental Health Case Management, Parenting Assessor, Parenting Time Consulting, Child, Adult & Marriage and Family Therapy.

Areas of family of origin, play and art therapy, attachment, spirituality, child and teen development, parenting, adoption, home schooling, domestic and spiritual abuse, women’s issues, blended family dynamics, Prepare/Enrich, premarital counseling, separation and divorce, grief, life transitions, stress management, communication, relationships/boundaries, ADD/ADHD (adult and child), anxiety, depression, PTSD, and psychological testing.

Works with ages: 0 to 100+

Personal Mission Statement: Debra works from a holistic approach that leans towards integrating Body, Soul & Spirit. Building momentum towards the development of identity, purpose, connection and fulfillment. Her work incorporates spiritual connectivity and community. Creativity, accountability and motivation are provided.

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Vicki Novak, MA, LPC


Clinical Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor
Education: MA – Counseling Psychology, Bethel University, MN

Specializing in: Treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Shame, Codependency, Parenting, Women’s Issues, Forgiveness, Anxiety, Grief & Loss.

Works with ages 12 and over.

Personal Mission Statement: My goal as a Christian therapist is to help clients find hope, healing and freedom in Christ by offering empathy and encouragement in a safe, supportive atmosphere. I seek to combine my passion for God’s Word and the practical application of Scriptural principles with my professional training and life experiences in a way that comforts clients with the comfort that I have received from God. (2 Corinthians 1:4)

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Saul Selby, MA, LADC, Ordained Minister


Drug and Alcohol Counselor
Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor
Education: MA – Human Development, St. Mary’s Graduate School, Minneapolis,
MN. Hazelden Counselor Training Program
Years of experience: 28

Specializing in: Depression, Anxiety, Infidelity, Couples and Marriage Counseling, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Pornography and Sexual Addiction.

Works with ages 10 and older.

Previously the Clinical Director at Hazelden, Saul is a national speaker who has trained thousands of professionals in mental health and addiction counseling techniques. He has authored over 15 books, pamphlets and videos and aside from his counseling practice Saul continues to consult, train, and develop products.

Personal Mission Statement: To help individuals and couples experience wholeness and healing through the application of biblical principles and the Love of Christ.

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Tony Sommars, LMFT


Clinical Therapist
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Education: MA – Marriage & Family Therapy, Bethel Seminary, MN
Years of experience:
10

Specializing in: Marriage/Relationship Counseling, Adolescents, Family/Parenting, Men’s Issues (Sexuality, Pornography), and Grief/Loss.

Works with children (age 12 & up), adolescents, and adults.

Personal Mission Statement: To provide a safe, Spirit-led, and helping environment aimed to fulfill client goals in a direct and compassionate way.

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Brent Baumler, MS, LPCC



Burnsville Clinic Director, Clinical Therapist
Education: MS – Counseling, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Years experience: 19

Specializing in: Marriage, Individual and Family Issues, Christian Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Adolescent Changes in Development, Men’s Issues, Women’s Issues, and Couples Counseling.

Works with ages 10 to 75

Personal Mission Statement: It is my mission to provide Christ-centered, Bible-based counseling to those hurting from the trials and troubles of this world.

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Wendy Baumler, MA, LMFT


Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Education: MA – St. Mary’s University
Years of experience: 9

Specializing in: Marriage and Family, Depression/Anxiety, Adolescents, Women’s Issues

Works with ages 5 and older

Personal Mission Statement: Through integrating Biblical principles and strength based therapy, I strive to create a healing environment for children, adolescents and families where they experience emotional and spiritual growth.

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Ronda LaPointe, MSW, LICSW


Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
Education: MSW – Clinical Social Work, College of St. Catherine, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN
Years of experience: 16

Specializing in: Childhood Trauma, Attachment Issues, Adolescent Issues, Parenting Issues, Step-Family Dynamics, Adoption, Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD and Women’s Issues.

My education and training include special emphasis in working with children, using play therapy and attachment theory.

Works with children, adolescents and adults

Personal Mission Statement: To show Christ’s love and grace, while building a compassionate and caring partnership. Through respect, sincere interest, and in depth listening, I help individuals navigate through the issues that cause them difficulties; and, together we work to find suitable means to reach balance and fulfillment in their life.

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Sheila J. Marker, MA, LMFT


Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
State & AAMFT Approved Supervisor
Education:
MA – Professional Counseling, Argosy University, Eagan, MN

Years of experience: 6

Specializing in: Depression and Anxiety, Relational, Marriage and Family Issues, Pre-Marital Counseling, Women’s Issues including Self-Esteem & Personal Growth, Spiritual Issues, Marriage Counseling, Abuse, and Children Diagnosed with Autism.

Works with children, adolescents and adults

Personal Mission Statement: To come along side of those who are struggling to offer hope and encouragement that they can find healing and wholeness in their lives with therapy that is psychologically sound as well as consistent with Biblical principles.  My commitment is to provide a supportive environment, maintaining high professional and ethical standards, where I partner with individuals in finding the path to the abundant life, filled with meaning, purpose and fulfillment.

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Gene Martens, MSE, LMFT


Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Education: MSE – University of Wisconsin, River Falls
Years of experience: 8

Specializing in: Depression, Anxiety, Work Stress, Parent and Child Relations, Teens, Individuals, Couples, Blended Families, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss.

Works with ages 5 and older

Gene has nearly 20 years of experience working with children, teens, individuals, couples, blended and single parent families. He has worked as a school teacher, led high school leadership conferences, and served as a youth and family minister. Through these experiences he has counseled many individuals and families facing challenges. Gene also researched and co-wrote a curriculum for parents focused on children’s physical, emotional and spiritual development. He has spoken at many conferences and seminars to parents, lay ministers, teachers, and pastors. Gene and his wife have also served as licensed foster care parents. Gene has a passion for working with individuals, children and their parents, and couples.

Personal Mission Statement: Living requires constant adjustment to life changes. I find it a humble honor to walk with individuals as they discover ways to live fulfilling lives discovering God’s grace in Christ.

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Kristi Wilder, MA, LMFT


Clinical Therapist
Education: MA – Adler Graduate School
Years of experience: 4+

Specializing in: Marriage and Family, Depression, Stress, Anxiety, Divorce, Step-Families, Parenting, Career/Work Issues, Women’s Issues, Children through Adults, Groups and Individuals, Marital and Couple Counseling, Support Groups.

Works with ages 5 and older

Personal Mission Statement: My desire is to be an instrument of hope, encouragement, and guidance to others on their path to emotional and spiritual healing. I want to walk along side you and your family, with God’s grace and guidance, as you work toward positive change and growth. Whether we work together individually, in a marital or couples setting, with your family, child or teen you will gain skills, insight, and hope as you strive to achieve the life you desire. I encourage you to take the first step on a journey of transformation and healing. I look forward to working with you!

“…those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

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Timothy Wiertzema, MA, LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Education: MA – Argosy University
Years of experience: 6
Works with ages 4 and over

Specializing in: Counseling for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. Works with Individuals, Couples, Parents, and Families, Dealing with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Men’s Issues, Career Counseling, Work Issues, Spiritual Issues, Anger Management and Parenting .

Personal Mission Statement: I believe my calling is to facilitate an environment of hope and healing through the leading of the Holy Spirit. Second Corinthians 1:4 says: The Lord comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

5 Top Specialties:
1) Men’s issues
2) Family Therapy
3) Marital Therapy
4) Children & Adolescents
5) Parenting.

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Amber Langford, MS, LAMFT

Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Education:
Friends University, Lenexa, KS

Specializing in: Marriage and Family, Parenting Issues, Depression/Anxiety, Trauma/Grief and Loss, Spiritual and Identity Issues

Works with ages 5 and older

Personal Mission Statement: To reflect God’s love to people by providing a warm and accepting environment in which they will be encouraged and challenged toward deeper application of God’s Truth in their lives. I seek to integrate the best of mental health research with the limitless resources God provides. It is my prayer that through our work together you will experience healing and be empowered to live the victorious life of hope, peace, freedom and joy for which you were created.

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