LGBT therapists in Rochester, MN

I bring a lot of life experience to my practice. I have worked in various fields throughout my life prior to making the career switch to therapy. I can relate to a lot of different perspectives and backgrounds and bring this to session with me. I show up authentically, being direct but also using humor to connect with clients when needed.

I have worked collectively for 31 years in public safety, crisis work, training and mental/chemical health. During my 16 years in law enforcement (LE) my experiences included being a Sergeant, SWAT Team Leader, Negotiator, Critical Incident Facilitator and Trainer. My experience in LE has led me to my passion in how trauma impacts our first responders. I have used my own experience as a first responder and woman in recovery, to transcend into my current role of a mental health and chemical health therapist working with not only first responders - police, fire, military, dispatchers, front line workers and corrections officers, but also any survivor, individual struggling with LGBT issues, addiction, relational struggles or trauma. I am able to be a conduit of change, sharing the journey with those who face the everyday stressful events, trauma or finding one's true identity. We are never alone. I am here to be a safe place and safe person to share and divide your pain. I am here to honor your experiences, share your success and build your resilience and healing.

Hello, my name is Betsy Walter MSW, LICSW.

I use a relational approach to working with adolescence. I am easy to talk to and like to listen.

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 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 provide a space rooted in safety, deep listening, and compassion. Healing is a sacred journey—a process of growing insight, clarity, and wisdom while reclaiming wholeness and transforming pain into purpose. Together, we can explore the paths that lead to a satisfying life filled with peace, joy, and mastery.

A former client called me "endlessly chill." I am known to wear more sweatshirts than more "professional" attire. I don't want to give off any energy that I am better than anyone who sits across from me. I am known to swear in sessions (but I do filter this per client).

I believe that you are the expert in your own life. Oftentimes people seek therapy as a way to cope with difficult environments, navigating a complex and rapidly changing world without the support they need to overcome obstacles. I have worked with disenfranchised folks most of my life - many impacted by systems involvement, lack of access to services, homelessness, and intimate partner violence. Past clients have shared they genuinely appreciate having a helping professional who meets them where they are at in life, supports them in achieving realistic goals, and keeps dignity, respect and honesty at the forefront of the work.