Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Minnesota covered by Cigna

Hello, I’m Dr. Stella Essien, Welcome!

As a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner (FNP & PMHNP), I have a passion for compassionate, equitable, and accessible mental health care practice that brings evidence-based, person-centered services to individuals and families across Minnesota.

Whether you're navigating anxiety, or addiction recovery, depression, or stress, I am here to support your path forward with warmth, professionalism, and purpose.

Hi, I am so glad you found me here today, and are taking the next step! I’m KrisAnn, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with 20 years of experience supporting individuals and couples navigating cancer, chronic illness, grief, anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions. I founded Curveball Counseling to offer a steady, compassionate space where people can make sense of what they’re going through and regain their sense of stability and direction.

My professional background includes extensive work in oncology and medical settings, where I’ve supported patients, caregivers, and families through some of life’s most uncertain seasons. Alongside my clinical training, these experiences shaped my deep respect for the resilience people carry—even when they feel overwhelmed.

Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress management concerns, relationship issues, or the emotional weight of trauma and major life changes. You may be noticing overthinking, low motivation, self-doubt, communication problems, conflict in important relationships, or patterns that keep repeating no matter how hard you try to change them. I work with individuals, couples, and families who want more clarity, healthier relationships, and practical tools for moving forward.

My approach is relational, compassionate, and tailored to the person in front of me. I draw from evidence-based and attachment-focused therapies to help clients better understand themselves, strengthen emotional awareness, and create more meaningful change. Whether you are working through anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family conflict, or the effects of past experiences on your present life, therapy can be a place to slow down, make sense of what is happening, and begin building something healthier..

As a fully licensed therapist for 4+ years Ashley has had experience working with a wide range of clients. Recently she has begun to focus on women's health, ADHD and those with addiction issues.

As a board certified and licensed clinical professional counselor, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to stability in life. Seeking help can be a hard initial step and I am glad you are here. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background including trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, grief and relationship problems.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist with experience in individual and group therapy since 2017. My approach is trauma-informed, empowering, and client-centered, tailored to meet the unique needs of adults, children, and families. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, which help clients develop healthier thought patterns, reframe their personal stories, and enhance motivation for change.

With experience supporting individuals facing severe and persistent mental health challenges, as well as those with sexually maladaptive behaviors, I create a safe and supportive space for healing and personal growth. Since opening my private practice in 2023, I have been committed to helping clients build resilience, navigate life’s challenges, and improve their overall well-being.

If you’re looking for a compassionate therapist dedicated to fostering healing and transformation, I would be honored to support you on your journey.

I am very appreciative of your time to review my profile, and excited to hear from you if this brief information creates an interest to learn more about me, and/or to begin the steps of working together. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys the diversity of working with individuals 18+, couples, and families. My work usually serves and offers support to those that are struggling with communication issues, stress/anxiety, trauma, and complex life issues. I seek to support those in need of culturally responsive and culturally sensitive services.

As a therapist, I take a client-centered, genuine, collaborative approach to the client’s needs and goals. I have over 19 years of experience with significant experience helping adult clients (18+) work through anxiety, mood disorders (depression/bipolar disorder), sexual addictions/offenses, trauma, grief/loss, men and women's issues, and general life stressors/transitions (work, relationships, parenting, etc).