At some point we all need someone in our corner. We feel honored that, as therapists, we get to be that person in people’s lives. We understand the difficulty in telling someone your life story and want to create a space that feels safe, comfortable, and open so that you can feel more at ease when taking that step.  We believe that the therapy relationship is an important part of healing and want to work with you to develop a partnership where you feel challenged and supported. We pull from different therapy styles to find what techniques fit who you are and your individual, situational needs with a focus on meeting you where you’re at, regardless of the life situations, loss, grief, or trauma you’ve experienced.

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Alissa Kaasa MSW, LICSW (she/her)

alissa@poplargrovecounseling.com

I have been in the mental health field for over 10 years and have experience working with adults of all ages as well as people from various cultures, backgrounds, gender identities, and lifestyles. I spent many years working as a Community Social Worker before switching to therapy which is my passion. I believe my role is to see things from a different angle while gently encouraging you to continue processing and learning new techniques that could lead to a happier, healthier life. I focus on using solution focused strategies and mindfulness techniques while also incorporating tools (like art, worksheets, or activities to try in between sessions) that fit who you are and what you are going through. In the midst of a difficult situation it can feel like we're not moving so I want to always be pointing out your strengths and your progress while helping you tackle the challenges in life. 

I am the week day therapist and am only meet with clients virtually.

Sally Vanerstrom MSW, LICSW (she/her)

sally@poplargrovecounseling.com

I am a clinical social worker and therapist.  I have more than 20 years experience working with people who are in different kinds of emotional distress.  I work with clients to help them uncover current barriers to having fulfilling lives, and then I continue to work with clients to help them decide to go forward into more fulfilling lives.  I have worked with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief and loss, even psychosis to discover and cope with both why their lives feel derailed, and how to get their lives back on track.  I absolutely believe that while the work to recover can be painful, the journey is worthwhile.  People CAN learn and grow, feel better, and have rewarding lives. 

I work evenings and weekends and take mostly in-person appointments. 

Christina French MSW, LICSW (she/her)

christina@poplargrovecounseling.com

My interest has always been in working with people, supporting them in achieving their goals and improving life quality. This interest started in my youth as a camp counselor working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, continued to working in a residential setting with adults who all had a variety of developmental challenges, to my current work with people who have been diagnosed with serious mental illness. I work from a person-centered approach, with emphasis in mindfulness and cognitive behavioral techniques. I believe in developing collaborative relationships, and look forward to working with you. 

I work weekends and am seeing people both virtually and in-person.

 

Lisa Watts MSW, LICSW

I'm currently in an administrative role and not taking clients.