"You don't always need a plan. Sometimes you just need to breathe, trust, let go and see what happens."

Mandy Hale

Heads up! As a practice, we know it’s important to know all the details about our education and experience. However, we also want to honor our values of authenticity and being humans first. If you are looking for all the formal things, keep scrolling (it’s at the bottom).

Kjerstin Rydeen

(she/her)

Therapist

As a social worker, I am honored to be involved in vulnerable, complex and pivoting times for people’s unique life journeys. My professional experiences reflect the difficulty that comes with navigating transitions, both large and small.

My previous work has included supporting families navigating unexpected pregnancy outcomes or complex medical needs with lengthy NICU hospital stays, or experiencing the death of their children. I currently work part-time as a school social worker. Working within these larger systems, I have developed an understanding of the nuances and complexities that families face.

In my role, I strive to create a space of warmth and understanding, where my clients feel seen and heard. My approach is grounded in compassion, and I pride myself on holding a safe presence that allows individuals to explore their emotions openly. Life is a series of transitions, and I am here to meet you as you are. I am available to gently remind you of your worth, and support you as you set and reach your goals.

I understand the intricacies of grief and loss from a clinical standpoint but also from personal experience, as I have faced the agony of sudden child loss. This unique perception enables me to connect with my clients on a deeper level when they are navigating the complexities of grief and loss. I recognize that grief and loss do not only pertain to circumstances of death but those emotions can surface for other circumstances and transitions.

It is a passion of mine to help individuals facing transitions and crossroads. Whether you are dealing with the challenges of parenthood, the nuances of perinatal mental health, or the profound impact of grief, I am here to guide you. I believe that every person's journey is unique, and I am committed to supporting you in finding your way through this stage of your life.

I look forward to meeting you, hearing your story, and offering my support as you navigate through.

I enjoy spending time outside being in nature, connecting with friends, and traveling.

Primary Populations

Individuals with Anxiety/Panic, or Depression, self-esteem or adjustment issues | Bereaved Individuals | Medically & Psycho-socially Complex Adults | Geriatric Mental Health | Perinatal mental health | Adoption - Attachment

Specialties + Areas of Focus

Adoption | Anxiety | Co-Occurring Disorders | Person-Centered Therapy | CBT | Depression | Trauma-Informed Practices | Women's Issues | Substance Abuse | Self-Esteem

Thursdays, daytime hours

Availability

Contact Kjerstin

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW, #18139). I completed my Masters of Social Work with the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. I have worked in a variety of settings including hospitals (NICU), ACT team, pregnancy and birth work and the Peace Corps.

Education, Experience and More