Prenatal and postpartum therapists & psychiatrists in Minnesota

I want clients to know that I bring both clinical training and lived experience to the work we do together. As a therapist and a new mother, I understand how deeply transformative—and at times overwhelming—pregnancy and motherhood can be. My approach is grounded in compassion, authenticity, and evidence-based practice. I strive to create a space where you feel seen, supported, and free to explore your thoughts, emotions, and needs without judgment.

I value collaboration, honesty, and meeting you exactly where you are. I believe growth happens when we feel safe, heard, and guided with intention. My goal is to help you reconnect with yourself, clarify what truly matters, and build a life that feels aligned with your values—both as a mother and as an individual.

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.

You’ve spent so much of your life holding space for others—showing up, pushing through, doing what’s expected. But where do you go when you need space to exhale? My practice is a sanctuary for high-achieving, heart-centered individuals who are tired of performing strength and ready to cultivate something deeper: true balance, ease, and self-trust.

As a therapist, I hold space for the complexities of your experience, offering both warmth and directness to guide you toward sustainable healing. I believe that transformation happens when we integrate mind, body, and spirit—where deep insight meets intentional action. Together, we’ll explore the patterns keeping you stuck and build a foundation for a life that feels just as good as it looks on paper.

Whether you're navigating a difficult season or seeking long-term support, I’m here to walk alongside you with empathy, insight, and unwavering care.

As a mother of five, I understand the complexities of life, relationships, and emotional resilience. I became a therapist to help others feel less alone and to guide those struggling with mental illness toward hope and healing. I’m passionate about breaking the stigma around mental health and helping people reclaim their voice, strength, and sense of self. With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I’ve had the privilege of working with children, teens, and adults across a wide range of challenges — including anxiety, trauma, and depression.

I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in Minnesota and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Montana, with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

I am Melissa, I am a licensed independent clinical social worker. I have 10+ years of experience in a variety of mental health positions including casemanagement, ARMHS, county social work, substance use treatment settings, and hospital settings. I have a masters in social work from The University of New England. I work with a variety of diagnosis including anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorder and personality disorders. Also, phase of life concerns from adjusting to an addition to the family to retirement. I work primarily from a solution focused prospective. Working to change how experiences affect today's behaviors.

Welcome and I’m so proud of you for making it this far! Therapy can be intimidating, so I am here to support you and walk with you on your journey. My philosophy is that you are the expert in your own experiences and I am just along to help guide you as you need.

I specialize in working with children, aged 6 through 18, and adults facing diverse challenges. I have a specialty in working with individuals facing life transitions, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, grief/loss, perinatal/postpartum, confidence building, trauma, and social skills building.

I am a Professional Mental Health Therapist/ Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) providing telehealth services throughout Minnesota and in-person therapy in Brainerd. I work with adolescents ages 10+ and adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship concerns, and self-esteem challenges. My approach integrates EMDR, Brainspotting, somatic therapy, and evidence-based practices to support healing and lasting change.

I earned my Master of Arts degree in psychology with a focus on marriage and family therapy to pursue my passion for helping others navigate life's challenges, achieve personal growth, and heal. My education and training have equipped me with the knowledge and skills to provide effective, evidence-based therapy to my clients.

I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management of ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, trauma-related conditions. My goal is to create a supportive, judgment-free environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered throughout your mental health journey.

I believe that every person's story is unique, so I take the time to understand your concerns, symptoms, lifestyle, and treatment goals before developing an individualized care plan. I incorporate medication management with supportive counseling and evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and Motivational Interviewing, to help you build practical coping skills and achieve lasting improvement.

Whether you're struggling with difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, low mood, emotional challenges, or life transitions, I work collaboratively with you to help you regain balance and improve your overall well-being. My focus is on delivering personalized, compassionate care that supports meaningful, long-term success in both your mental health and daily life.