Therapists

Shawn Bulgatz, MA, LMFT (Eagan and St. Louis Park)

Post Masters Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy – University of St. Thomas
Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology – University of St. Thomas
Bachelor’s Degree in English and Psychology – University of Wisconsin – Madison

Shawn has had extensive training in the field of play therapy and uses a non-directive/experiential approach to working with children in play. Shawn believes in a systemic approach to working with children. Meetings with parents and collaboration with other providers for the child occur on a regular basis. If recommended by the therapist, parents can become part of their child’s play therapy session.

Almost 90% of play therapists are female. Unfortunately, many children have had negative experiences with men. Shawn offers the opportunity for children to develop trust and work through past trauma with an experienced male therapist. It has proved to be a very unique and healing experience.

Ann Fleming, MA, LMFT

Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy- Bethel Seminary, Arden Hills MN
Bachelor of Arts in Communication- University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, CO

Ann has worked with children and families in a variety of settings for over 15 years and has a passion for helping kids thrive. She also has several years’ experience working with adults with mental health challenges and disabilities. As a military spouse of 20 years, Ann also has personal and professional experience with the stress and adjustment of deployment. Many of these stressors are the same as those experienced by families who are undergoing custody issues, divorce/separation, and the process of having children diagnosed with learning or other disabilities.

Ann uses a combination of non-directive and experiential approaches in play therapy with children. She believes that play is the language children use best to express themselves, and that healing occurs when they feel safe to open up about their inner world.

In her spare time, Ann enjoys hanging out with her family and friends, her dogs, and coaching and participating in Crossfit.

Naomi Heller, MSW, LICSW

Master’s Degree in Social Work, University of St. Thomas
Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, University of Wisconsin – Madison

Sarah Nides, MA

Master’s Degree in Adlerian Psychology and Psychotherapy – Adler Graduate School
Bachelor of Science in Child Psychology – University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

Sarah has experience providing group, individual, and family therapy. She has worked with most ages in a variety of settings including schools, daycares, homes, and day treatment centers. Sarah believes in the value of each individual’s unique strengths and aims to guide her clients towards healing through creativity. Sarah’s approach is gentle and informative while offering a safe, warm, and encouraging environment. She hopes that her clients will feel heard, as she seeks to understand their concerns and find ways to guide them towards their therapy goals. Sarah primarily utilizes Experiential Play Therapy in her work with children between the ages of 2-12 years. Although, she may implement other models or techniques depending on therapy goals and the individual’s developmental age. Sarah collaborates with her clients to understand their unique needs and then identifies which approaches will work best for the individual. Through creativity and encouragement, children can learn to flourish and develop a foundation for positive growth and development. Sarah always appreciates being invited to become a part of your healing journey, as she is continually amazed by the growth that can occur when children are given the space to share their stories.

Sheldon and Cali Sue

Sheldon (Mini Goldendoodle) and Cali Sue (Rescued Mix that Shawn affectionately refers to as a ChiMalShiPomYorkiPoo) are at the Eagan office several days a week.  They are the official greeters to those who enter the waiting area and help out during therapy sessions with Shawn.

Locations:

3440 Federal Dr, Suite 150, Eagan, MN 55122
4601 Excelsior Blvd, Suite 410A, St. Louis Park, MN 55416

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