Stephanie Carlsen, CSW
"You don't have to have it all figured out, you just need a space to show up exactly as you are."
Hi, I'm Stephanie.
If you've been carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, constantly trying to push through, or feeling like no one "truly gets it," I want you to know you don't have to do it alone.
Maybe you're navigating past trauma that keeps showing up in the present.Maybe you've been stuck in survival mode for so long that slowing down feels scary.Maybe you just need someone to sit with you and say, "It's okay to not be okay."
Wherever you are in your journey, you are welcome here.
I work with kids, teens, and adults who are ready to heal and grow, even if they're unsure of where to start. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or like they've lost trust in themselves. Together, we'll work to rebuild that trust and help you feel safe, grounded, and more like yourself again.
How I work:
My approach to therapy is rooted in connection. I believe that healing happens when we feel safe, seen, and supported. You don't need to come into therapy with everything figured out, that's what we'll work on together.
I often use DBT, EMDR, play therapy (for kids and adults!), and parts work to help clients process and move through life's challenges. My goal isn't to "fix" you, because you are not broken. My role is to help you reconnect your mind and body, find clarity, and build the tools you need to navigate life with confidence.
In our work together, you can expect:
A therapist who listens deeply and meets you exactly where you are
Practical tools and coping skills to help you manage the hard moments
A safe space to explore your story and begin writing the next chapter of your life
I'm especially passionate about helping people heal from trauma. Whether it's connecting with your inner child or processing recent experiences. Healing can feel heavy, but it doesn't have to be lonely.
About Me:
I'm a Clinical Social Worker with a Master's degree in Social Work from Utah State University and a Bachelor's in Family Studies from Weber State University. I've always been passionate about helping others feel seen and supported. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in early childhood intervention, middle schools, and parenting education. I've also volunteered at a domestic violence shelter and led children's grief support groups. These experiences deepened my belief in the resilience of the human spirit.
Outside of work, I'm a mom of three, and my world is a beautiful mix of chaos and joy. I love going to the gym, playing video games, reading fantasy novels, and spending time outdoors. My favorite place to recharge is by the ocean. There's just something grounding about the sound of the waves. (Maybe I'm a little like Moana, the ocean just calls to me!)
Oh, and if we ever meet at a coffee shop, I'll be ordering a vanilla cream cold brew with caramel drizzle.
Fun fact: I call myself "the most social antisocial person ever." I love connecting with people, but I also love cozy nights under a blanket with a book, puzzle, or video game.
What I want you to know:
You don't need to have the "perfect words" or know exactly what to say in therapy. You just need to show up.
Therapy is a place to slow down, explore what's really going on, and discover that you already have the strength to move forward. Even if it doesn't feel that way right now.
If you're ready to begin your healing journey, I'd be honored to sit with you in that space and walk alongside you as you write your next chapter.
FAQs
1. What issues do you specialize in? I often work with clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, and big life transitions.
2. Do you work with children and teens? Yes! I have years of experience working with children and teens, including play therapy, early intervention, and family support. I love helping kids and families find ways to heal and grow together.
3. What's your approach to therapy? I use a blend of evidence-based approaches including EMDR, DBT, play therapy, TBRI, and parts work. I tailor each session to meet your unique needs, with a focus on helping you feel safe, empowered, and connected to yourself.
4. What ages do you work with? I work with clients as young as three years old through adulthood.
5. Do you offer in-person or virtual sessions? Yes, I offer both in-person and virtual sessions. I usually like to meet in person first, but we can figure out what works best for you.
6. What can I expect in the first session? Our first session is all about building trust and getting to know each other. We'll talk about what brings you to therapy, explore your goals, and begin to create a plan together, at your pace, with no rush or pressure.
7. How often will we meet? Most clients start with weekly sessions, and we adjust from there based on your needs and goals.
8. I'm nervous about starting therapy. What should I do? Feeling nervous is completely normal. We can start with a free 15-minute consultation - no commitment, just a chance to talk and see if we're a good fit.
9. What do your clients say about working with you? Many of my clients say they feel safe, seen, and supported, and that therapy helps them leave feeling more grounded, hopeful, and empowered.
10. What's the next step if I'm interested? Click the link to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation. We'll take it one step at a time, together.