Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Omaha, NE

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in painful relationship patterns, carrying the effects of trauma, or facing a life transition that feels hard to manage, therapy can be a place to exhale. I work with adults who want support making sense of what they’re going through and finding practical ways to feel more grounded, understood, and in control. I also support clients navigating family dynamics, including experiences related to autism, adoption, and complex relationships.

Hello — I am Marlene Knerl and I look forward to meeting you. I moved to Nebraska from the west coast in the 1990s as a single mother with a desire to go to college and better our lives. I thought that Nebraska would allow for me to raise my two sons in a small town while simultaneously attending a University. First, I achieved a comprehensive degree in Psychology, then a MSed in Community Counseling.

Since becoming licensed as a counselor I have been working with individuals and families. Life can be difficult and helping people navigate the struggles is at times a challenge but nothing is more rewarding. I have always desired to help people and this profession has allowed for me to enact those intrinsic desires.

I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve what you desire.

Life can feel overwhelming when you're carrying anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, trauma, or the stress of major life transitions. You may feel stuck, emotionally exhausted, disconnected from yourself or others, or unsure of what comes next. I work with youth, adults, seniors, individuals, and couples who want to better understand themselves, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful change.

With more than seven years of experience, I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, stress management, grief and loss, relationship concerns, women's issues, trauma, and life transitions. My goal is to provide a warm, affirming, and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to move toward greater confidence, balance, and emotional well-being.

I am a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP), and Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW) in Omaha, Nebraska, who works with adult women and provides care for patients who struggle with trauma, sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and major life transitions, including reproductive and midlife changes. I enjoy working with women in various stages of life including pregnancy, post-partum, and perimenopause/menopause. I have extensive experience with trauma-informed, evidence-based psychotherapy and have been a licensed mental health provider for over 10 years.

I found passion for mental health while working with children at an autism summer camp that I have worked for for 15 years. Mental health is a major component that makes us happy, sad, or just ok. I am here to help you meet your goals and help guide you along the way. I have experience in mood disorders, trauma, autism & learning differences, and sleep.

I believe self care is important for our health

I am a board-certified Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing psychiatric care and therapy for children, adolescents, and adults through secure telehealth. My approach to care is thoughtful, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practice.

I bring a diverse clinical background that includes over 12 years of experience across medical, surgical, and behavioral health settings, as well as over 10 years of service in the United States Navy. My background has influenced my approach to care by emphasizing professionalism, adaptability, and thoughtful decision-making, particularly in complex or high-stress situations.

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.