Allison Benz MA, LMFT, CCTP II
My Approach
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) and have training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Perinatal Care (PMADs), and I am a certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP II). I practice using an integrative approach which includes knowledge of care in a variety of settings and the following theories of practice, EMDR, DBT, Narrative, Existential, Emotionally Focused, and Family Systems. These modalities allow me to create a warm, welcoming, and safe environment which I find essential to the therapeutic process. My style is to be direct, honest, and kind while we collaborate to explore and develop your own skills and strengths to navigate healing.
I have a passion for perinatal and trauma care. I have found with both, healing is a delicate and challenging process requiring extra care and attention. I am here to support and guide you towards wellness and empowerment during this journey. I also enjoy working with adults, couples, and families as to promote balance and healing.
I am able to complete diagnostic assessments as to identify mental health diagnoses and develop comprehensive treatment plans to set intentions for care.
My specialty areas include: EMDR, DBT, depression, anxiety, trauma/post traumatic stress, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility, pregnancy loss/infant loss, birth trauma, ADHD, personality disorders, relationship issues, parenting issues, and couple and family communication challenges/development.
My Story
For as long as I can remember helping others has been a significant part of my life. Becoming a therapist in my career path seemed like the perfect fit and the most fulfilling role I could achieve. I began my journey at Anoka Ramsey Community College in fall of 2005, where I took as many psychology classes as they offered, along with general education courses as well. I then transferred to Bethel University in the spring semester of 2007, where I studied counseling psychology. I graduated fall semester of 2008 with my Bachelor of Arts in Counseling Psychology. I applied and was accepted at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis. I began taking classes at St. Thomas in 2009 and graduated in 2012 with my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy.
The involvement I had in my internship and practicum left a lasting impact on me. These included the Bridge for Runaway Youth in Minneapolis and a Mental Health Practitioner in the Professional Family Based Division of Nystrom and Associates. The children and their families provided so much experience early on in my career, I wouldn’t be the therapist I am today without the opportunities and people I met. I am very grateful for the time as well as the individuals and families I worked with.
I spent September of 2011 to October of 2014 working in the CTSS program and then moved to outpatient therapy October 2014 to January 2020 at NAL. During that time I was able to become licensed (September of 2017) as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Receiving this licensure has been one of the greatest achievements in my life.
I then moved to a small collaborative in January 2020, Clearwater Counseling, where I continued to grow my skill set, autonomy and purpose as a therapist. The dream of owning my own private practice has become a reality as Trinity Therapeutic Services will open its doors in 2023. I look forward to serving this community and supporting the needs of those who seek care here. I am honored to play a part in each person and/or family’s journey as they step through my door, virtually or physically.
My Professional Credentials
I am one of the creators of Trinity Therapeutic Services.
I received my Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of St. Thomas in 2012. I am licensed with the Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family Therapy as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (license # 3511).
I am certified EMDR Provider, as well as an active member of EMDRIA (EMDR International Association) and participate in their client care. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCTP II). I am an active member of the Minnesota Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (MAMFT). Additionally, I adhere to the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Client Bill of Rights and the AAMFT Code of Ethics.
My Beliefs
I believe that, although we may not have created the circumstances we are living in, we have the responsibility and ability to solve the issues. This is where therapy can be so beneficial. The journey to solving these issues does not have to be navigated alone.
I believe each individual has the ability to learn and implement skills that best fit their needs. I also know this journey to developing these skills is challenging and difficult. With support and guidance along the way, growth, stability and purpose in life is a reality.
I believe that empowering others begins with empowering ourselves.
I believe that we are created to be social beings and this is a vital part of our existence. Being in community as well as seeking support and supporting others is so important. Change cannot occur without the support of healthy individuals and groups around us.
My Contact Information
I encourage you to reach out if you are interested in care. I am accessible by email and phone, however for an initial contact, I ask that you email me as this is my preferred method of communication, and the one that is most accessible for me. Please keep in mind I answer my own calls and emails during regular business hours, Monday - Wednesday (7 am-3 pm). Please allow 2-3 business days for a phone call or email to be returned.
To explore fit for care, I first ask that you email me to explore my openings and verify I take your insurance. Next we will discuss to see if we are a good fit. If we both decide to initiate care, I will direct you to create a Therapy Notes Portal account to engage in the completion of intake forms, as well as for use of ongoing care management.
If you do not wish to move forward with care in my space, I encourage you to explore PsychologyToday, Therapy Den, United Way, speak with your Primary Care Provider and/or call the number located on the back of your insurance card to explore local covered therapists.
612-217-4241