About
Clinic: Chaska
Licenses: Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
Education: University of St. Mary's Master of Clinical Social Work
Patients Age: 12+
Penny's areas of interest include: -Anxiety -Depression -Trauma -Co-Occurring -Attachment -Life Transitions -Social Skills -PTSD -Interpersonal Difficulties -Self-Esteem -DBT -CBT
Penny is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker specializing in helping individuals navigate life's challenges while building lasting tools for whatever comes next. My approach to therapy is person-centered and strengths-based. I believe each individual is the expert of their own experience, and I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. Life can feel overwhelming at times - whether you're managing anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, trauma, relationship challenges, stress, or simply feeling stuck. Therapy offers a space to slow down, gain clarity, and develop practical strategies that actually work in real life (not just in theory). I integrate evidence-based practices while remaining flexible and responsive to each client's unique goals and needs, because meaningful change looks different for everyone.
I have experience working across many levels of care, including Intensive Outpatient (IOP) settings, and I work with ages 12 and up. I value meeting clients where they are - whether that means navigating the complexities of adolescence, balancing adult responsibilities, or learning how to cope more effectively when life doesn't go according to plan (which, as most of us know, happens more often than we'd like).
Above all, I am committed to fostering a therapeutic relationship built on trust, authenticity, and respect. I believe healing happens through connection - and sometimes through appropriately timed humor - because growth doesn't always have to feel heavy. You can expect honesty, compassion, and the occasional gentle reality check when needed.
If you're ready to explore your potential and take the next step in your mental health journey, I would be honored to walk alongside you in the process.
Licenses: Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
Education: University of St. Mary's Master of Clinical Social Work
Patients Age: 12+
Penny's areas of interest include: -Anxiety -Depression -Trauma -Co-Occurring -Attachment -Life Transitions -Social Skills -PTSD -Interpersonal Difficulties -Self-Esteem -DBT -CBT
Penny is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker specializing in helping individuals navigate life's challenges while building lasting tools for whatever comes next. My approach to therapy is person-centered and strengths-based. I believe each individual is the expert of their own experience, and I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. Life can feel overwhelming at times - whether you're managing anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, trauma, relationship challenges, stress, or simply feeling stuck. Therapy offers a space to slow down, gain clarity, and develop practical strategies that actually work in real life (not just in theory). I integrate evidence-based practices while remaining flexible and responsive to each client's unique goals and needs, because meaningful change looks different for everyone.
I have experience working across many levels of care, including Intensive Outpatient (IOP) settings, and I work with ages 12 and up. I value meeting clients where they are - whether that means navigating the complexities of adolescence, balancing adult responsibilities, or learning how to cope more effectively when life doesn't go according to plan (which, as most of us know, happens more often than we'd like).
Above all, I am committed to fostering a therapeutic relationship built on trust, authenticity, and respect. I believe healing happens through connection - and sometimes through appropriately timed humor - because growth doesn't always have to feel heavy. You can expect honesty, compassion, and the occasional gentle reality check when needed.
If you're ready to explore your potential and take the next step in your mental health journey, I would be honored to walk alongside you in the process.
Q&A
What was your path to becoming a mental health professional?
Completing generals and realizing social work was my calling. I went to school and finished my BSW in 2013, worked with children & families. I then returned back to school to do therapy. I completed my MSW in 2021.
What should clients expect when working with you?
As someone has told me, I use "gentle confrontation" as my teaching style. I use a mix of education, skill-building, and humor in sessions. I'm compassionate, caring and welcoming of wherever you are in your journey.
If you could be doing anything else, what would it be?
Hiking guide; exploring all the national parks.
Schedule with Kaiser,
Next available
Next 30 days