Mary Widseth

Mary Widseth, LPC, focuses on helping people understand themselves and the people around them. She brings a practical, down-to-earth style to sessions and aims to make therapy feel approachable and useful. Mary describes clear steps and tools rather than vague techniques so families and individuals can take forward action after each visit.

She earned a master’s degree in Community Psychology and Rehabilitation Counseling from Saint Cloud State University and a bachelor’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation from the University of Wisconsin - Stout. That background led to early work supporting adults with cognitive, physical, communication, and mental health challenges in employment settings. She helped with job placements, on-the-job training, and coordination between clients, employers, and support staff.

After graduate school she provided in-home therapy for children ages 7 to 18 and their families for two years. She then spent two years as a mental health therapist working with adults and children in an office setting. Her clinical work has included supporting people managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, addictions, body image concerns, and relationship difficulties.

Mary often adapts communication methods when language or sensory differences are present. She uses picture books, rebus boards, and sign language strategies when helpful. Her experience includes working with people who identify as transgender or bisexual and those navigating surgical changes to their bodies.

She lists Intellectual disability among focus areas and draws on years of hands-on experience with marginalized adults and families. Mary practices in Minnesota and conducts sessions in English.

How therapy approaches translate to online sessions

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and building understanding. The therapist follows the client’s lead and helps people name what matters most and set practical goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) breaks down thoughts, feelings, and behaviors into clear pieces to change patterns that cause distress. It is often used for anxiety, depression, and sleep problems. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches concrete skills for managing strong emotions, improving relationships, and handling crisis moments.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with each person about their goals, try approaches that fit the situation, and adjust strategies over time. This helps clients find what works for their daily life rather than forcing a single method.

Confirm current session options before booking, as the biography does not list specific formats. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, shorten follow-up check-ins, or avoid travel time. It can also allow for different communication tools when needed, such as visual aids discussed in sessions. Discuss practical needs and preferences with the therapist when scheduling so session length and timing match real-life routines.