Eliana Grung

Therapy is a really special experience, one that is unlike any other relationship out there. I prioritize the relationship between therapist and client knowing that it is out of this that change most happens. Without that trust and relationship at the foundation, techniques and therapeutic methods have been shown to be less effective. I understand the courage it takes to show up to therapy and let someone into some of your most vulnerable and scary parts and I do not take this courage lightly. As a person, I also am not without an understanding of what it takes to go to therapy, as I too have been a client before.

As you work with me you will find I have many different sides to my personality, and I've learned to use the different sides to connect with people in different ways depending on the need. I also utilize techniques from many empirically validated methods depending on what is needed and the therapeutic goals. At the core is someone who genuinely cares and my hope is that creates a safe environment conducive to growth. It is a joy for me to be able to be there for others, and if we can make it fun well that helps as well!

I have my Masters in Counseling Psychology from Bethel University and have my LPCC license through the state of Minnesota. I have many years of experience providing intensive in-home CTSS skills/therapy to children and their families (a program specifically for children/families on Medical Assistance). I also did ARMHS work with adults who have disabilities as well as Outpatient therapy with ages 0-20. I am also trained in Early Childhood therapy for ages 0-5 years old.

I am trained in CBT, TF-CBT, Solution-Focused, Family Systems and Narrative Therapy and am working on getting certified in IFS and Polyvagal Theory.

Before pursuing a therapy career I did get my undergraduate degree in Pre-Med/Biology and worked as a PCA for around 6 years. Feel free to ask me about my experience!

As a therapist I am warm, approachable, honest, empathic and genuine. I like to make therapy fun; so sometimes that means we do artwork, games, telling your story through creative ways, and other fun techniques. The goal is to help you process things differently, develop skills and create your own journey to change and resilience. My role is to come alongside you and help you process and explore your story and experiences, with a growing understanding that behaviors don't happen in a vacuum and address root issues that continue to contribute to dysfunctional thinking and behaviors. I do a lot of work with topics of shame and fear, exploring internal and external resources and use a holistic lens (mind, body, spirit) to help clients better understand themselves and their connections with others.

My goal is that my clients walk away from each session supported and encouraged to take steps, one foot in front of the other, towards sustainable and transformative mental health change; as well as building a deeper connection towards themselves and connection with others. To gain more understanding of their symptoms, needs and experiences and a growing knowledge of tools and resources they can utilize to build resilience and reduce their symptoms.

Clients can also expect that each session might be a bit different from each other. Sometimes we might do something artistic as part of therapy, sometimes we may just talk the whole time, sometimes we might incorporate a game or an activity, and sometimes we may just work on breathing. The first step is to reach out and the second is to give it a try. Beyond that, my hope is for sessions to be comfortable as we build our working relationship and take steps towards growth and change.