Hi, I’m Emma…

(She/Her)

I am a Licensed Graduate Social Worker and received my Masters in Social Work from Saint Catherine University. I specialize in working with young children, adults, and parents struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, healthy eating, life transitions, emotional regulation, and parenting concerns. I am also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.R.T) and integrate this into sessions. Choosing to come to therapy is a difficult decision, and it’s just as difficult to open yourself up to a new therapist. That’s why my focus is always first on building trust and a relationship with clients, establishing a safe space where clients can feel comfortable with being vulnerable and voicing their inner experiences.

Sessions with me are meant to feel like a conversation where you can be seen and heard and where we tailor the approach to best fit your needs. Client’s can expect a lot of humor, but also consistent transparency, honesty, and compassion. 


I believe in overall health and well-being as the goal, and consider all aspects of a client’s life as we explore how pieces are woven together. I use an integrative approach, incorporating mindfulness/presence, early experiences, attachment, and neurobiology to support growth and healing. We develop a plan together, with your goals in mind, as we strive to address what might be holding you back from the life you want to live. 


With children, I use non-directive play therapy to build self-esteem and confidence as children are provided space to process and integrate their experiences. Sessions are tailored to meet the needs of the child as well as the parents. I also work with parents to explore their experiences and to support them through the challenges they are facing. Parents can expect a nonjudgmental and supportive space where we explore their concerns and ways to help support the child in and out of sessions. I incorporate psychoeducation on child development, attachment, and neurobiology to establish a more comprehensive understanding and to best meet the child and parents where they are at.

 

Specialties

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Children and Adolescents

  • Peer Relationships

  • Self-harming

  • Self-esteem

  • Parenting Issues

  • Pre-Marital/Marital

  • Relationship Issues

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Stress and Coping Skills

  • Weight Loss

Treatment Approaches

  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

  • Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

  • Strengths-based Therapies

  • Trauma Focused Therapy

  • Play Therapy

  • Attachment-based

  • Mindfulness

Education & Training

Master of Social Work
St. Catherine’s University, Minnesota

Licensed Graduate Social Worker
MN License Number 32257

Emma Virden is currently under clinical supervision with Heather Deveny-Leggitt.

Get started with Emma today.