Our Therapists
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Jenna Hertaus, LPCC
OWNER OF GOLDEN ROOTS THERAPY, THERAPIST
Compassion and understanding are at the root of my care. I value understanding a person’s whole self, in order work on the root cause of the concern that they are coming to see me for. I value teamwork to grow into the person you would like to become. All my work comes from the lens of ‘what is the root cause of the symptoms we are seeing and experiencing’. Together we will come up with a treatment plan that works best for you to meet your goals. I cherish the vulnerability in sessions and work with each individual person to hear their concerns. I look forward to working together.
Experience: I am a board-approved mental health therapist and supervisor, certified in EMDR with Certifications in Child EMDR and Parent, Child & attachment EMDR. I am also certified in Anchor Relational Therapy (formally known as Air Network). I am trained in DC 0-5, TF-CBT, Synergetic Play Therapy, Level One Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBITS, and Bounce Back.
Populations: Children (3+), adolescents, adults
Specialties: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Acute Mental Health, Behaviors
Approaches: I value a team approach focused on evidence-based care and tailor therapy to fit each client’s needs and readiness.
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Concordia College, Moorhead), Masters in Clinical Counseling and School Counseling (University of Minnesota, Moorhead)
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Addy Sampson, Pre-Licensed LPCC
THERAPIST
When your child or teen has experienced trauma, you might feel overwhelmed watching them struggle with anxiety, behavioral changes, or emotional outbursts. You may notice them withdrawing from loved activities, having sleep troubles, or experiencing school difficulties. As a parent, you want to help them heal and reclaim their sense of safety and joy. I understand how heartbreaking it is to witness your child's pain, and I'm here to walk alongside both of you. My approach creates a safe, nurturing environment where young people can process their experiences at their own pace. Using trauma-informed techniques for children and adolescents, I help them develop healthy coping strategies and rebuild confidence. Together, we'll work toward helping your child feel secure again, strengthen family connections, and restore hope for their future.
Experience: I bring diverse clinical experience from multiple therapeutic settings, including Nystrom & Associates, where I provided outpatient therapy and Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge, supporting individuals with trauma histories and underlying substance use, helping them develop healthier coping mechanisms. I also supported domestic violence survivors through a nonprofit, helping them heal and rebuild their lives.
Populations: Children (6+), adolescents, adults
Specialties: Child and adolescent trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, family dynamics, stress management
Approaches: Trauma-informed care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy and EMDR (Fall 2025)
Education: Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and Nutrition (St. Catherine University), Master of Science in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Clinical Counseling (Capella University)
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Katie Matteson, LADC, Pre-Licensed LPCC
I strive to create a comfortable environment where you can explore challenges openly and begin to thrive, focusing not only on symptom relief but also on your overall wellbeing. I believe therapy is most powerful when it honors your sense of control and autonomy, giving you the space to move at your own pace while feeling safe, supported, and understood. I take a holistic, collaborative approach, working alongside you as a source of support in your healing journey. I use humor and gentle challenges to encourage growth while keeping the process approachable and meaningful. Drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and person-centered care, I integrate evidence-based strategies to fit your unique needs. Together, we’ll build on your strengths, foster resilience, and support lasting growth in every area of your life.
Experience: I have experience working in child intensive outpatient treatment, inpatient adult mental health treatment, and outpatient therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. I am trained in diagnosing and supporting young children ages 0–5 using the DC:0–5 framework, and I have developed skills in play therapy, behavioral interventions, and trauma-informed care. My experience includes supporting individuals and families with a wide range of mental illnesses and addictions.
Populations: Children (3+), adolescents, adults
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use, Addiction, Life Transitions, Relationships, Behavioral Challenges
Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, Strengths-Based Therapy, Integrative, EMDR (Fall 2025)
Education: Bachelor of Science in Psychology - Human Services Concentration, Minors in Sociology and Neuroscience (University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point), Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychological Services and Graduate Certificate in Addiction Studies (Saint Mary's University of Minnesota)
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Amariah McCarthy, LICSW
THERAPIST
When families are facing mental health challenges, you might feel uncertain about where to turn or how to best support your loved one. Perhaps you're watching a child or teen struggle with attachment, anxiety, or the lasting effects of trauma, and you want to provide them with the care and stability they deserve. I understand how overwhelming these experiences can be, and I'm here to walk alongside you and your family through this journey. With over eight years of experience working with children, teens, and families through life's most challenging moments, I create a safe, nurturing environment where families can heal and build resilience together. Using trauma-informed, attachment-centered approaches, I help families develop the tools and connections needed to move forward with hope and strength.
Experience: I have worked over 2 years in acute mental health treatment addressing mental health needs of adolescents who are experiencing mental health crises. Prior to working in acute mental health, I worked for two different child welfare agencies for a combined 6 years. I have experience in working with children, youth and families going through the foster care system and adoption.Populations: Children (6+), Adolescents, Young Adults up to age 25.
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Attachment, Foster Care and Adoption Issues
Approaches: Person- and Family-Centered Therapy, CBT, EMDR (Fall 2025), Attachment Base, Crisis Management
Education: Bachelors of Science in Social Work (Northwestern College), Masters in Social Work (University of New England)
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Elena Dooley, LGSW
THERAPIST
When life feels overwhelming, you might notice racing thoughts, tension, or surprising emotions. Whether struggling with anxiety, grief, perfectionism, or life transitions, therapy offers space to slow down and reconnect. You don't have to carry it alone. I work with children, teens, and adults using a warm, trauma-informed approach. I believe in healing through connection and the mind-body relationship, creating a space where you feel safe and supported. Together, we'll explore what's weighing on you, build coping tools, and work toward feeling more grounded and whole. My style is relational and collaborative, drawing from mindfulness, somatic awareness, CBT, DBT, and narrative therapy. I have special interest in trauma support and have presented on trauma-informed care. Healing isn't always easy, but it's possible, and you don't have to do it alone.
Experience: I have experience supporting children and adolescent at Partial Hospitalization programs, and adults in an outpatient settings with a wide range of diagnosis. My clinical experience includes crisis intervention, diagnostic assessments, and individual, couple and family counseling.
Populations: Children (6+), adolescents, adults, elders
Specialties: Trauma-Informed care, Grief and Loss, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Relationship and Attachment, Self-Esteem
Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Interventions, Narrative Therapy, Strengths-Based and Person-Centered Practice, Attachment-Focused Work
Education: Bachelor’s of Arts in Health & Fitness Promotion and Exercise Physiology (Luther College), Masters of Social Work with clinical specialization (Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota)
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Otis
THERAPY DOG
Otis is a trained therapy dog that assists Jenna in therapy session, if you choose! Otis loves to play during sessions, but also enjoy a nice scratch or laying at your feet.
When Otis is not in session, he loves to play fetch or go on hikes with his family. Otis absolutely loves green toys or tennis balls.
Otis is so excited to meet you!
Grounded in Care, Growing Together.
Grounded in Care, Growing Together.