507 - 386 - 7121
Justin D Kruse, MS, LMFT
Justin, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and proud graduate
of Minnesota State University, Mankato. I entered this profession out of a genuine
desire to help others in a meaningful way. My clinical experience has ranged from
the developmental impact of trauma to attachment to the use of multi-sensory
forms of psychotherapy in the treatment of client difficulties. I work with
individuals across the lifespan and have received specialized training in
Experiential Play Therapy®, TF-CBT, EMDR, Filial Therapy, Theraplay®,
Sandplay and Sandtray Therapy, Incredible Years Groups and the DC: 0-5.
I'am also a 2017 graduate of the Permanency and Adoption Competency Certificate
program. And I’ve committed myself to study and training in Somatic
Experiencing. With this close concentration on resiliency-based treatment,
attachment, and trauma, I focus on re-establishing the client’s innate capacity for
emotional regulation and assist clients in the recognition and release of physical
tension that may remain in the body in the aftermath of a traumatic event. I also
specialize in strengthening family relationships through play and in addition to
trauma and attachment, I’ve treated a wide range of mental health struggles
including anxiety, depression, conduct and oppositional behaviors, and ADHD. My
philosophy of service includes a collaborative, inclusive approach that draws upon
the involvement and expertise of a range of disciplines, supports, and organizations
of the client system. I also work competently with individuals who identify as
LGBTQ and provide trainings, supervision and consultation to therapists seeking
licensure as an LMFT, LPC, or LPCC."
Email: jkruse@jthcc.org
Heather Frantum-Mathes, MS, LMFT, RPT-S, SEP
Hi! My name is Heather, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and
Registered Play Therapist, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. My specific areas
of interest include working with individuals of all ages to resolve and work through
single episodes of trauma or complex trauma. I provide outpatient psychotherapy
to children and adolescents who have been impacted by abuse, neglect, and trauma.
I received certification through the Association for Play Therapy as a Registered
Play Therapist. I also provide trainings and supervision/consultation services to
other therapists seeking licensure or certification in Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT),
Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors and/or Play Therapy.
I am a graduate of Minnesota State University, Mankato with a Master of Science
in Community Counseling with specialized training in Marriage and Family
Therapy and Play Therapy. I also hold a Bachelor of Science degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato, majoring in Psychology. I have specialized training in Experiential Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, Theraplay, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), both Sandplay and Sandtray Therapies,
Incredible Years Groups, In Touch Therapy, and the DC: 0-5, which is the
diagnostic criteria for children ages 0-5.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a
psychotherapy treatment used to reduce distress connected to psychological
symptoms and trauma. I completed the Permanency and Adoption Competency
Certificate in June 2017 to better serve families through the adoption process and
the loss that surrounds adoption changes and transitions.
In January of 2023 I completed the three year program and am now a Somatic
Experiencing® Practitioner (SEP). Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a therapy that
aids in the resolution of unresolved trauma that impacts the mental health and the
functioning of individuals and their families.
Email: hfrantum@jthcc.org
Dr. John Seymour, PhD, LMFT
Dr. Seymour has been a family therapist for over 40 years, with a focus on
children, adolescents, and their families. He is an Emeritus Professor and
Distinguished Faculty Scholar at Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he
taught for almost 20 years. Much of his clinical practice, university teaching,
clinical supervision, and research has focused on family relationships, resilience,
and families coping with chronic illnesses.
His previous professional experiences included several clinical, supervision, and
administrative positions in a variety of healthcare settings and private practice. His
educational background includes master’s degrees in family therapy (University of
Houston, Clear Lake) and pastoral studies (Southern Seminary, Louisville) and a
Doctor of Philosophy degree in counseling (Texas A&M University, Commerce).
He is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Minnesota, a Clinical Fellow
and Approved Supervisor with the Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
and a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor with the Association for Play Therapy.
Email: jseymour@jthcc.org
Laura Pierson, MS, LMFT, LADC
Hello, my name is Laura Pierson. Therapy with me is client-led, curious, relaxed,
and may involve some laughs and humor. I strive to create a cozy and comfortable
environment that promotes self-exploration and growth. In my office, you will find
art supplies, toys, fidgets, blankets, and other feel goods. Feel free to put your feet
up, sip your coffee, and make yourself at home while you engage in your therapy
process.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 10 years. I have
experience working with couples, families, and individuals of all ages, with a
variety of presenting concerns. I use an integrative and comprehensive approach to
therapy and have a compassionate, genuine, and approachable demeanor. I am
enthusiastic, personable, and empathetic and am fully invested in developing a
therapeutic connection with clients. I strive to create a sense of safety and trust as
clients begin to share their life stories and work on self-improvement.
I have worked extensively with individuals experiencing life transitions/stressors,
changes in family dynamics, trauma, grief and loss, relational issues, and
mood/anxiety disorders. I utilize a client centered, trauma-informed approach to
therapy. Areas of special interest and focus include enhancing interpersonal
relationship satisfaction, women’s health and wellness, emotion regulation,
boundaries, self-improvement/growth, developing healthy attachments, and healing
from trauma.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a
psychotherapy treatment used to reduce distress connected to psychological
symptoms and trauma. I utilize an Experiential Play Therapy model for children 10
and under. I completed my educational training at Minnesota State University,
Mankato with a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling. I have a Bachelor’s
Degree in Psychology and Drug and Alcohol Studies.
Email: lpierson@jthcc.org
Diane Caspers, MS, LP
Diane Caspers, MS, LP is a Licensed Psychologist with over 36 years of
professional experience working in the field of counseling and psychotherapy. She
has experience in individual, couples and family therapy, having worked with all
age groups along the life span. Currently her primary focus is in treating adults.
She is particularly interested in assisting adults in navigating the challenges and
changes of mid-life, aging, grief and the retirement transition. Diane provides
services via telehealth using zoom for HealthCare providers.
Diane has a strong interest in the Jungian individuation process and has a passion
for depth work. She recently completed a program in the Dreaming Tending
method of dream work, sponsored by Pacifica Graduate Institute for Depth
Psychology and does dream work. In 2011 she completed a 2 year training
program in Jungian oriented Sand Play therapy.
Diane specializes in depth process and inner healing work and has much
experience facilitating recovery and healing around issues of shame, abuse, family
of origin wounding and grief and loss. Diane has experience and expertise in the
treatment of mood disorders; adjustment disorders; major mental illness; PTSD;
anger management problems; divorce adjustment; parenting stress; and the
treatment of addictions and co-dependency.
Diane is trained and certified as a TFCBT therapist as well (Trauma-Focused
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy). She is also a certified spiritual director who is
comfortable integrating spirituality into therapy at the client's choosing.
Email : dcaspers@jthcc.org
Kim Slette, MSW, LICSW
Hi, my name is Kim Slette. I am an Outpatient Therapist with Journeys Toward
Healing Counseling Center. I have a master’s degree in clinical social work, and I
am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience using the DC 0-5 with
infants, young children and their families in order to develop an appropriate
treatment plan. I diagnose, assess and treat clients based on their individual and
family needs. I have extensive experience utilizing a family systems theory
approach when working with children and their families. Together we work toward
developing appropriate treatment plans that will help families to be successful as
individuals and as important participants of their family unit.
Prior to working with Journeys Toward Healing Counseling Center, I worked in a
school setting. I was a School Social Worker for more than 27 years. During that
time, I worked with children and their families. They taught me so much more than
I taught them over the years! When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with
my family. My children and grandchildren bring me a tremendous amount of joy! I
also enjoy gardening and crocheting.
Email : kslette@jthcc.org
Janet Meegan, MSW, LICSW
Hi! My name is Janet. I have a Bachelor of Arts from Northern Illinois University
and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Minnesota State University, Mankato
where I was a Title IV-E Child Welfare Scholar. I have completed the DC 0-5
training and play therapy trainings. I have taught a graduate level class on trauma
informed clinical interventions with children at Winona State University. I have
over twenty years of experience in the social services field working with families
in various roles. I have been practicing at Journeys Towards Healing for 2 and ½
years. I practice through a trauma informed lens with emphasis on attachment and
one’s place within their family and community system. I believe when you work
with children, you must also work with the whole family.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, camping, watching movies, keeping up with current events and playing with my dog.
Email : jmeegan@jthcc.org
MacKenzie Gohdes, MA, LPCC
Hello! My name is MacKenzie Gohdes, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical
Counselor at Journeys Toward Healing Counseling Center. I received my Bachelor
of Arts in Relational Communication from Crown College and my Masters of Arts
in Counseling through Crown College as well. I am also trained through DHS in
the Assessment, Conceptualization, and Diagnoses of Mental Health Disorders in
Young Children using the DC:0-5, MIM: Administration, Scoring, and feedback
for Theraplay Practice and have completed the Permanency and Adoption
Competency Certificate to better serve families through the adoption process and
after. I have completed additional training in “The ripple effect, Understanding
Early Childhood Trauma” and “The Fatherhood Connection: Engaging Dad at the
Community Level”. Within the next five years, I hope to become a Registered Play
Therapist.
Email: mgohdes@jthcc.org
Christine Jeske MS, LMFT
Hello! My name is Christine (Crissy) and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family
Therapist at Journeys Towards Healing Counseling Center. I am originally from
South Dakota, and moved to Minnesota in 2019. I graduated with a Masters of
Science in Clinical Mental Health and Marriage & Family Therapy through South
Dakota State University. I have experience working with a wide variety of clients
in different settings and have obtained a number of different trainings. These
experiences have strengthened my enthusiasm for working with kids and families.
I strive to create a safe, creative, and engaging environment for everyone to be able
to explore, discover, and grow.
My specialized trainings include:
traumatic events using a cognitive-behavioral approach.
pregnancy and newborn loss
Email: cjeske@jthcc.org
Anna Formella, MS Clinical Trainee
Hello! My name is Anna, and I am a clinical trainee at Journeys Toward Healing
Counseling Center. I graduated from Saint Cloud State University with my
master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I completed my
undergraduate degree in Psychology and Human Development at the University of
Wisconsin-Green Bay (Which means, yes, I am a Packer Fan!). I specialize
working with Kids and Families with diverse background and a variety of
concerns. I primarily take an Experiential Play Therapy approach. I integrate play,
sand, art, music, and sensory based therapy approaches in session. I have spent my
last two years at JTHCC growing my knowledge in Play based approaches,
specifically with kids and families who have experienced adoption, attachment
injuries, and traumas. (See below for a list of updated credentials, trainings, and
certifications). When working with kids, I take a family/team approach and highly
encourage parents to be extremely active in the therapy process. I strive to create a
safe and creative environment for people to explore and grow.
Specialized Trainings
1. TF-CBT Training
2. Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Training
3. PESI Telehealth Training
4. Assessment, Conceptualization, and Diagnoses of Mental Health Disorders in
Young Children using the DC: 0-5
5. Experiential Play Therapy Training
6. Permanency and Adoption Competency Certification
Email: aformella@jthcc.org
Juliet Hatch, MS, LAMFT, Clinical Trainee
Hello, my name is Juliet and I am a Clinical trainee here at Journeys Toward
Healing Counseling Center. In 2022 I earned a Master of Science degree in
Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University, Minneapolis. In 2000 I
earned a Master of Science degree in Women’s Studies from Minnesota State
University, Mankato. In 1993, I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree from the
University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point.
Over the past 20 years, I have worked with complex issues including domestic
violence; parenting struggles; grief and loss; trauma experiences in childhood or
related to sexual or violent partner incidents; fears and consequences related to
coming out regarding sexual identification, orientation, and neurodiversity; self-
worth; anxiety; and depression. Further, I have enjoyed the opportunity to witness the development of resiliency and strength that has helped individuals and families grow and foster communication, coping, and creative expression, to help cope with challenging times.
I consider each individual and family as unique and tend to tailor my methods
accordingly. I primarily lean on narrative, multi-generational, communication,
contextual, structural, and Eco-wellness models, but continually evolve as I learn
more. I am passionate about the environment and our place within it and social
justice issues, so I utilize a client-centered, strengths-based wellness (mind-body-nature) lens that guides my work with those who entrust me with their worries,concerns, or issues.
I have several areas of interest including learning more about dealing with trauma such as serious illness/long-term hospitalization; at-risk young adults who’ve become homeless as a result of coming out; learning to become more effective in serving the LGBTQIA+ population and exploring ways to effectively reach populations that struggle with social anxiety; and families and individuals dealing with end-of-life issues.
I love visiting and spending time with my four adult children and am looking
forward to exploring hobbies and interests including yoga, swimming, dancing,
painting, drawing, reading and traveling.
Email: jhatch@jthcc.org
Lynda Mead, Reiki Practitioner
Hello! My name is Lynda Mead and I am a Reiki Practitioner at Journeys Toward
Healing. I trained as a Reiki practitioner after hearing so many stories of its
benefits to others. I am so happy to witness first hand these benefits as we all
journey through the stresses and illnesses life present.
Now retired, I was a K12 Teacher in Family Consumer Sciences as well as a
seamstress altering and constructing apparel, home goods and costumes of all
kinds.
For those of you who may not be familiar with Reiki, Reiki is a technique that
works with our life force energy to promote relaxation, healing, and well-being.
Reiki uses gentle or no touch at all to help with relaxation to balance the physical,
mental and emotional energy systems. Studies show that Reiki helps reduce
anxiety, stress, pain and increases physical vitality. It enhances the healing process
following illness, injury, surgery or chemotherapy. I look forward to the
opportunity to administer Reiki as a supplement to the services provided at
Journeys Toward Healing and aid in the healing and revitalization we all deserve.
Email: lmead@jthcc.org
Kennedy Day