I am passionate about working with couples (dating, engaged, married, or navigating separation/divorce), adolescents, and families experiencing a wide variety of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, everyday stressors, parenting, trauma, pregnancy, perinatal concerns, infertility, loss, spirituality, relationship issues, self-worth, and self-harm. 

I have a passion for working with couples and I do so from a marriage-friendly perspective by helping each partner understand and feel understood by each other more effectively. I also help couples identify practical solutions for mutually beneficial outcomes.

Going through stressful times and various life events impact everyone differently. Life consistently throws us obstacles – sometimes those obstacles feel manageable, while other times they feel all-consuming. During those times it can be beneficial to have someone in your corner, listening attentively and empathetically, asking supportive questions, and helping you identify your best next steps forward. 

Many people have difficulty with the question, “If ______ was resolved, what would my life look like?” Some would choose to wake up with no stress-related headaches. Others long to feel reassured that their children’s needs are met, ruminate less about why bad things happen, or personally have a healthier relationship with food and body image. In difficult times like these, I will be there for you. There is no difficulty too big or too small; if it is important to you, then it is worth receiving support in overcoming it.

I come from a structural lens in assisting to break down communication, providing validation and empathy through the curveballs we experience in life. I utilize a blended approach to therapy, pulling from solution focus, experiential, family systems, and client-centered approach along with being a trained Prepare/Enriched facilitator.

Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Taking part in the wide variety of nature that Minnesota offers (yes, even the winter!). Along with numerous crafts, baking, cooking, and reading novels joined with a cup of coffee or an obnoxiously oversized water bottle.

If you think we would be a good fit, please reach out at

tawny.nelson@vaydamentalhealth.com