Lea Semler

Hi, I’m Lea Semler, the founder of Ember and Shore Therapy, PLLC. I believe therapy is a space where we can tend to the "embers" of our past while finding a steady "shore" to stand on today. With almost two decades of clinical experience, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals, couples and families through their most complex transitions.

I earned my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Cloud State University and have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) since 2008. My background includes experience working in residential treatment, education, and private practice. I specialize in Anxiety, Trauma (TF-CBT trained), Mood Management, and Relationship Dynamics.

Outside the office, I’m a lover of all things warm—from summer cabin days with my husband and children to the peace of the ocean and a winter fireplace. I believe in the healing power of good food, a solid sense of humor, and a steady path forward.

My style is grounded, warm, and authentic. I prioritize our therapeutic relationship as the primary vehicle for growth, ensuring you feel truly heard as we work toward meaningful change.

My approach is rooted in:

• Person-Centered Therapy — Providing a supportive, non-judgmental space where you lead the way toward personal growth.
• Family Systems — Viewing your well-being through the lens of the relationships and environments you navigate.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — Identifying and shifting unhealthy thought patterns.
• Narrative Therapy — Helping you "re-author" your story and find new meaning.
• Structural Therapy — Healing boundaries, relationships, and roles within the family unit.

Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, so my first priority is to create a safe, stable environment where you feel comfortable sharing your story. In our first session, we will focus on your "presenting needs"—the immediate challenges that brought you through the door—and begin to identify the goals that matter most to you.

You can expect a collaborative conversation where I’ll ask about your history and your hopes for our work together. You will leave our first meeting with a clearer understanding of how we will work together and a sense of the resilience we are going to build.