team
Laura Ford, MA, LPCC
Owner, Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor
I am grateful to have had a diverse range of work experience in my professional career, both before and after returning to graduate school to become a psychotherapist. These experiences greatly inform my work and aid me in serving a wide range of clients and clinical concerns.
Prior to starting my own practice, I worked in a variety of other settings, including day treatment centers, in-home services, and school- and community-based services. I have worked as both a front-line practitioner and program manager in several of these service models.
My work has served adults, couples, families and adolescents from a variety of cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions and lifestyle/environmental situations. International study across five continents has contributed to the work I do serving a diverse clientele.
I'm currently completing a post-graduate certificate program in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy through the William Alanson White Institute in New York. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling & Psychological Services and a Bachelor’s degree in Education. I am am a member of the Psychotherapy Action Network (PsiAN) and the Minnesota Psychoanalytic Society and Institute (MPSI).
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota (license #1805), and a MN Board-approved supervisor.
Melissa Forth Petron, MA, JD
Psychotherapist
After many years in first the legal field and then regulatory affairs for pharmaceuticals and medical devices, I decided to return to school again to become a psychotherapist. I truly love this work!
Having worked previously for the government and in both small and large corporations, my experiences have shaped how I therapeutically approach the stressors and concerns of modern life.
My approach also draws from Existential, Solutions-Focused, and Positive Psychology theories. I previously worked as a group therapy facilitator for Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), so I bring these skills into sessions as well. I know that change is tough and can be slow-going, but forming a secure and strong alliance with a therapist can help facilitate significant change.
I earned a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of St. Thomas, a Juris Doctor from Pennsylvania State University, and a Bachelor's Degree from St. Olaf College. I am currently working toward licensure under the licensed supervision of Laura Ford.
Emily Hedstrom
Psychotherapist
I have dedicated the past few years towards my Masters degree in Counseling Psychology and Community Mental Health, although my interest in the field began long before. As a therapist, I incorporate counseling theory with depth, imagery, creativity, and imagination, focused on trauma-informed care.
My experience working with children enriches my understanding of adults, when we reflect on salient moments from childhood. I have worked with a range of clients from children, adolescents, families, and adults.
One highlight in my education has been attending virtual trainings with Gestalt therapists around the world. I walk away from each call inspired by humans across all time zones, languages, and continents, who share their experiences of careful dedication towards growth and healing.
I am working towards licensure in the state of Minnesota, under the license of Laura Ford, MA, LPCC.