Specializing in the Building of

Strong Marriages & Healthy Families

Specializing in the Building of

Strong Marriages & Healthy Families


Therapists

Therapists

Lighthouse Counseling Ltd.

Therapists

Lighthouse Counseling Ltd.

Chelsea Krzmarzick,

MA, LMFT

Chelsea Krzmarzick
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Chelsea Krzmarzick, MA, LMFT

Chelsea earned her Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Psychology from the University of Minnesota Duluth, and obtained her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at St. Mary’s University Minneapolis. Chelsea has experience working with ages 10 and older in an outpatient, school-based, and in-home setting. She utilizes an integrative approach to therapy. Meaning, she chooses and combines different aspects of therapeutic approaches in order to meet each individual’s/couple’s specific needs.


Chelsea is certified in premarital and marital enrichment counseling through the PREPARE/ENRICH program. She has completed training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and brings this training into the therapy room with all of her clients; due to the substantial body of research that outlines the effectiveness of EFT. In addition, she has completed Discernment Counseling training to assist couples and individuals who are struggling to decide the direction for their marriage.


Overall, Chelsea believes learning how to manage today’s stressors, how to identify and express individual needs, and how to communicate effectively with the important people in our lives are strategies that can make a big difference in how we think and feel in our daily life.


Chelsea enjoys working with those experiencing or impacted by:


  • Marital Dissatisfaction
  • Relationship Problems
  • Divorce
  • Self-Esteem Issues
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Parenting Issues/Concerns
  • Family Conflict
  • Trauma and Abuse
  • Grief and Loss
  • Stress Management
  • Life Transitions


Scott Paulson, MS, LMFT

Scott A. Paulson MS, LMFT – Scott obtained his Master of Science Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Cloud State University. Scott is licensed by the Board of Marriage & Family Therapy in Minnesota to practice therapy with individuals, couples and family systems. Scott is also a board-approved clinical supervisor in the state of Minnesota


Scott has a diverse background having provided therapeutic services in group, school, in-home, and out-patient settings. Scott works with clients experiencing: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment reactions, relationship and marital problems. A strong emphasis in Scott’s clinical experience has also been treating clients with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) in an out-patient setting in collaboration with a multi-disciplinary staff of therapists, psychologists, and psychiatric providers. Scott has extensive experience providing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills training in a group setting. DBT is a treatment modality aimed at teaching behavioral interventions to help clients: become more self-aware, regulate their emotion, tolerate distress, and become more effective with interpersonal relationships. A primary therapeutic interest of Scott is working with couples providing relationship counseling, enrichment, and marital therapy. Scott values the process of building rapport with clients and the importance of education in his client’s growth and recovery. Scott works primarily with adults and his therapeutic approaches includes: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Family Systems. Scott values the role of faith and spirituality in the therapeutic process. Scott sees an individual as a three-part being: spirit, soul and body, all three of which need nurturance if they are to prosper.

Ashley Brinkman, MA, MHP

Hello my name is Ashley and I received my Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Crown College. I also obtained my Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Crown. I have experience working with young adults, adults, children, couples and people from different cultures, I also lead a grief support group for people of all ages through Ridgeview Medical Center.


I feel everyone is their own individual who is their own best author of their life. As a counselor I desire to help my clients the best way possible and walk along side them on their journey, helping them discover what they want in life. While processing emotions and working through any challenge’s, traumas, or obstacles. It is important to me that my clients feel comfortable to share in a safe place without judgement.


Ashley enjoys working with those impacted by:


  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Family Conflict
  • Grief and Loss
  • Stress management
  • Eating disorders
  • Self-esteem issues
  • Life transitions
  • Trauma


Larry Bengtson, MSE, LPCC

My name is Larry Bengtson and I am the Founder and Administrator for Lighthouse Counseling, Ltd. I have a passion and a dedication for the Building of Strong Marriages (Couples) and Healthy Families. I earned my Masters Degree in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin -River Falls after earning my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology/Sociology from St. Ambrose University. I am also a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider (CTMH). Lighthouse Counseling was established to provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment for people to disclose their personal struggles, receive help and restore their relationships. I have been practicing as a Professional Counselor for over 25 years and specialize in treating marriages/couples and families. I have helped hundreds of families and individuals navigate the complexities of life.


I believe in providing treatment from a holistic viewpoint that includes the emotional, psychological, mental, physical, and spiritual condition of each person. I am proud to share greatest accomplishment is my marriage of over 30 years, the raising of my 4 children and now the welcoming of my new grandchildren. I am the developer of the Marriage/Couples Forever Program which is designed to help couples who are experiencing a relationship crisis or married couples who are contemplating divorce. The program is designed to help people acquire the skills and knowledge to save their relationship and to make an informed decision before separation or divorce. I am available for public speaking, seminars, and training. I enjoy working closely with area physicians and pastors providing consultation, education, and support.


My Special Interests are working with:


  • Marriage/Couples Counseling
  • Relationship Counseling
  • Post-Affair Recovery
  • Blended Families
  • Remarriage
  • Marital/Relationship Dissatisfaction
  • Empty Nest
  • Life Transitions


Men's Issues:


  • Fatherhood
  • Intimacy
  • Anger management
  • Communication
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • Post Chemical Dependency treatment

Julie Muggli MA, LPCC

Welcome, my name is Julie. I received my Master’s in Counseling and Psychotherapy from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota and my undergraduate degree in Social Work from St. Olaf College. Mental health is a passion of mine in which I believe all individuals deserve to find peace and harmony within themselves. I have nearly 20 years of experience working in the mental health field. The majority of my experiences have been in supporting adolescents and adults journeying through unique circumstances of grief, trauma, mood disorders, familial issues, and life transitions.


I believe that developing a safe and trusting relationship is the bedrock of successful therapy. I feel honored to join individuals in their personal experiences, supporting and encouraging them along their path and collaboratively identifying their strengths and goals for treatment. I pride my life’s work in healing wounds, exploring new patterns of thinking, deepening self-acceptance and creating skills to manage the stresses of everyday life.


I have a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I tailor to each individual, integrating a variety of therapeutic approaches including: Strengths Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy.


I look forward to meeting you and supporting you in your journey to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.


My areas of specialization include:


  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Life Transitions
  • Family Conflict
  • Relationship Issues
  • Stress Management

Kayleen Weverka, MS, LPCC

Kayleen earned her Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling in 2017 after receiving her Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology in 2012. Kayleen is married with 5 children to include one child in the military. Kayleen has worked primarily in an in home setting with individuals and families. As a licensed professional clinical counselor Kayleen utilizes client centered approaches and strengths based therapy. Kayleen enjoys building rapport with clients to help provide a trusting environment in which individuals and families can learn and grow towards their goals. Kayleen’s professional experience includes volunteer work as a child advocate. Kayleen is passionate about family systems and understanding each individual within a family. Kayleen receives regular ongoing training surrounding trauma. Kayleen enjoys working with individuals or families.


Her experience includes working with those who have stressors such as:


  • Domestic Violence
  • Addiction/Chemical Dependency
  • Abuse/Neglect
  • Parenting issues/concerns
  • Legal issues
  • Trauma
  • PTSD
  • Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
  • Family conflict
  • Divorce
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Severe and Persistent Mental Illness (SPMI)
  • Attachment disorders

Heather Pererva MS, LAMFT

I am currently a Master’s Intern from St. Cloud State University’s Marriage and Family Therapy program. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Community Psychology from St. Cloud State University. Prior to working with Lighthouse Counseling, I interned at a day treatment center where I worked with adolescents, helping to teach coping skills related to cognitive behavior, emotional regulation and anxiety management. 


I am influenced by Systems and Biopsychosocial Theories and believe in utilizing an integrative approach to therapy, combining different therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of each individual/family. I recognize the courage it takes to enter into therapy and I am committed to fostering a comfortable environment where your unique goals can be achieved. 


I am certified as a PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator, which helps couples enrich their marriage or prepare for marriage during their engagement. My interests include working with children and adolescents, ages 0-18, couples and families, individuals suffering from self-injurious behaviors, and helping individuals/families manage and balance technology use in their daily lives.

Autumn Hooker, Clinical Trainee

Autumn Mattson
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Autumn Hooker, Clinical Trainee

Autumn Mattson is an artist and healer working towards licensure for Marriage and Family Therapy. Autumn desires to create a safe, non-judgmental, and comfortable space for individuals and families that come to the office or meet over telehealth. Autumn is passionate about helping people become their best self.



Autumn spent several years working with children of all ages while substitute teaching for Teachers on Call and Freshwater Education District. Autumn also worked as a Paraprofessional with the Big Lake Area Schools attending to students with special educational needs. During graduate school, Autumn worked as a Preschool Teacher with Lindgren Child Care Center. While doing her internship she worked with children and their families in the home setting as a Mental Health Practitioner through the Professional Family Based Division of Nystrom and Associates.


Autumn sees primarily individuals, families, and children for a variety of issues including, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, and trauma. Her therapeutic approach is multifaceted as she embraces different theories to best match her client’s needs. However, her favorite approach includes persons centered framework. Her special interests include gerontology, disability, grief, attachment, somatoform, life balance, faith, and life coaching.


 Autumn enjoys a variety of activities to enrich her personal life. She loves volunteering with children’s ministry, bible studies, church, being outside, camping, physical activity, reading, writing, animals, and spending time with friends and family.

Corri Jones, MA

You can have a life of abundance, peace, and joy! I am here to help you on this journey. I believe 90% of what happens in life is not what happens to us but how we react to situations. You deserve a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. I am here to help you find fulfillment and personal growth.

I have extensive experience working with families, individuals and couples.

I understand what it is like to have life throw challenges in your path. I am here to help you make meaning of life’s ups and downs.

Patricia Schneider, MA

Patricia earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental

Health Counseling in Psychology. She has experience working with adults, adolescents, and children. Based on each individuals needs, Patricia utilizes Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative, Motivational Interviewing, and Gestalt techniques in her counseling sessions.


Patricia takes a holistic approach with each person and provides a safe

space and hope for healing. She will help navigate through the challenges and difficulties you may be having. Understanding the courage, it takes to get help, she will meet you where you’re at and be alongside you to meet your goals.


Works with those who may be experiencing:


  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Trauma
  • Stressing situations
  • Bereavement


Ervin Miller, MS, MHP

J Ervin Miller received his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Walden University in 2013 and is currently a Master’s intern from Capella University’s Marriage and Family Therapy program. His background includes 22 years in law enforcement and correctional experience providing his clients a unique and credible insight into those individuals that place themselves in harm’s way to help others. 


Additionally, Ervin provides counseling services for children and adolescents, adults, couples and families, active members and veterans of the military, and other Public Safety members suffering from various maladaptive behaviors.   


Ervin is a goal directed, solution-focused, results orientated psychotherapist, that also embraces the ideology of the Bowenian therapy model. 


Areas of interests include:


  • Trauma
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Divorce
  • Stress Management
  • Grief and Loss
  • Marital Problem


Kirsten Anderson, MA, MHP

I am currently a Master’s Intern from St. Cloud State University’s Marriage and Family Therapy program. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Community Psychology from St. Cloud State University. Prior to working with Lighthouse Counseling, I interned at a day treatment center where I worked with adolescents, helping to teach coping skills related to cognitive behavior, emotional regulation and anxiety management. 


I am influenced by Systems and Biopsychosocial Theories and believe in utilizing an integrative approach to therapy, combining different therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of each individual/family. I recognize the courage it takes to enter into therapy and I am committed to fostering a comfortable environment where your unique goals can be achieved. 


I am certified as a PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator, which helps couples enrich their marriage or prepare for marriage during their engagement. My interests include working with children and adolescents, ages 0-18, couples and families, individuals suffering from self-injurious behaviors, and helping individuals/families manage and balance technology use in their daily lives.

Gabrielle Balmer, Intern

Hi I’m Gabrielle and I’m an intern working on completing my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. I got my undergraduate degree in psychology at Western Carolina University where I discovered my love of psychology as I explored psychopharmacology and neuropsychology and the way they affect mental health disorders.


I also love people and seeing them thrive. I work from a CBT perspective and I look forward to helping you build your relationship, move through life transitions and help you pursue your goals as you grow in your confidence, peace of mind and happiness. I also enjoy working with children and helping them develop the skills they need.


Every journey is a bit different and I look forward to exploring your goals and where you want to be in life and the best way to achieve that. 


Welcome to Lighthouse Counseling and I look forward to meeting you.


Specialties: 


  • Stress management 
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Life transitions 
  • Relationships
  • Spirituality
  • Self-Esteem 
  • Grief
  • ADHD
  • Forgiveness
  • Child/ Adolescence


Chantal Wohnoutka, Intern

I am currently an intern and working on completing my Master’s Clinical Social Work from Walden University. I received my bachelor’s Social Work from Hoge school ZUYD University in the Netherlands.


I was born and raised in the Netherlands. I have 10+ years of experience working with Children, adolescents and adults on the Autism Spectrum and problem behaviors working in the Netherlands in various settings. I have been in the Social Work field in America since 2020 in skilled nursing homes working with a variety of populations and mental health disorders.


I like to work from a holistic approach. Supporting you where you are at and helping you on your journey to become your best self. Helping you understand yourself, overcome obstacles and process emotions to heal.


I can help with life transitions, depression, anxiety, stress management, communication, social skill building, self-esteem, Autism.

Lauren Schwen MHP

I am currently an intern and working on completing my Master’s Degree in Counseling from Bethel University. Previously, I received my undergraduate degree in psychology from Wheaton College. Before beginning my career in mental health, I have worked with adolescents and adults with eating disorders, teenagers with depression and anxiety, and have provided group therapy. I have worked with children in a variety of settings.


I enjoy working with people to build a fulfilling life through exploring values, setting goals, and developing skills, helping them to get where they want to be. I believe every individual brings unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths into the counseling session. My goal is to support you in your journey of change and growth. In addition to addressing an individual’s mental health, I also believe it is important to consider the ways physical, spiritual, and relational health impact a person. 


I am especially interested in partnering with children and families to create an environment of growth and success and help families bring joy into their homes. Other areas of clinical interest include grief, spiritual struggles, life transitions, and stress management. ï»¿

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