I understand the need to be heard, validated, and seen for your life experiences without judgment. In working with me, you will find I have a warm, curious, and collaborative approach to therapy- with some humor thrown in there as well. I strive to develop a therapeutic atmosphere where you feel engaged and supported. My aim is to help you learn new ways of relating to yourself, others and the world to feel healthier and happier. I honor clients’ diverse identities and recognize that many internal struggles are reflective of systemic, sociocultural issues.

I see adult clients with a variety of therapeutic goals and have experience working with individuals who experience anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, grief and loss, PTSD and relational concerns. I have a particular interest in supporting clients who are going through life transitions and loved ones of individuals struggling with substance use concerns. I work from a trauma-informed lens and draw upon principles from several approaches including person-centered, strengths-based and supportive psychotherapy.

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and continued my education in the University of Minnesota’s Addiction Counseling graduate program, followed by completing the Clinical Mental Health program at Adler Graduate School. I began providing substance use disorder counseling in 2016 and have been providing mental health therapy since 2019. I have experience working in outpatient treatment and medication management settings.

You can reach me at amy.kershaw@vaydamentalhealth.com.