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Hi, I’m Danielle Mardesen, LMSW

Mental Health Therapist

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NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AGES 14+

EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

About Me

Life can leave us feeling disconnected from who we are. Whether you're healing from trauma, questioning long-held beliefs, navigating a major life transition, or searching for meaning, therapy can provide a place to better understand yourself and begin building a life that feels more your own.

Hello, I'm Danielle Mardesen (they/she). I provide trauma-informed, client-centered therapy for individuals (ages 14+) navigating trauma, identity development, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and the search for a life that feels authentic and meaningful.

I believe healing comes by viewing yourself through a lens of greater honesty and compassion, identifying the beliefs and patterns that once helped you survive but may no longer serve you, and gradually building a life that feels more fully your own. I hope our sessions feel collaborative, grounded, and genuinely human. I hope to create a space where you feel welcome as you are, where difficult questions can be explored, and where change happens at your pace.

I offer in-office and Telehealth appointments with availability on Monday (12 PM–6 PM), Tuesday (10 AM–6 PM), Wednesday (10 AM - 6 PM), Thursday (10 AM–6 PM), and Friday (10 AM–4 PM).

Clinical Areas

Below is a list of common mental health concerns I work with in practice. This list is not exhaustive, and if you don’t see your specific concern listed here - that’s okay. Everyone comes to therapy with a unique story, different needs, and different stages of readiness.

  • Anxiety / panic

  • Depression / persistent low mood

  • PTSD / CPTSD / trauma

  • Racial identity stress and BIPOC-related experiences

  • LGBTQ+ identity exploration and related stressors

  • Chronic stress / overwhelm related to ongoing life demands

  • Domestic violence and relational trauma

  • Religious trauma

  • Major life transitions

  • Neurodivergent traits (ADHD / Autism)

  • Romantic relationship concerns

  • Self-esteem and self-worth concerns

  • Alcohol & substance use

  • Co-occurring disorders / dual diagnosis

  • Self-harm and suicidal ideation

Passion Areas

My passion areas reflect the themes I feel most drawn to and most energized by in my work with clients.

  • Identity development, meaning-making, and navigating major life transitions

  • Exploring existential questions surrounding meaning, purpose, and belonging

  • Processing religious trauma and faith transitions

  • Affirming support for LGBTQ+ identity exploration, acceptance, and life transitions

  • Complex trauma and dissociation

  • Treatment of depression, emotional distress, and persistent low mood

  • Support for those navigating and healing from domestic violence and relational trauma

  • Care for individuals experiencing self-harm thoughts or suicidal ideation

One of the greatest privileges of this work is bearing witness to another person's story. I believe therapy can offer more than symptom relief. It can become a place where people begin to understand themselves differently—with greater compassion, greater freedom, and a renewed sense of possibility.

Modalities & Education

I provide client-centered, trauma-informed therapy grounded in respect for each person as the expert of their own lived experience. My approach integrates several therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), parts work, and narrative therapy. I also work under the supervision of Ali Simpson.

I tailor my approach to each individual, recognizing that no two people’s stories are the same. My role is to offer support, collaboration, and tools that align with each client’s unique needs, values, and goals.

  • Masters of Social Work with Specialization in Trauma, Violence, and Justice / Boston University School of Social Work

  • Masters of Arts in Theological Studies with Specialization in Pastoral Care / Princeton Theological Seminary

  • Bachelors of Arts in Religion / Northwestern College

Outside the Therapy Office

Outside of the office, I find grounding and joy in creative pursuits, time with loved ones, and quiet, restorative moments. I feel most regulated in simple present-moment experiences, like slow mornings, meditation, yoga, sitting in the sun with a cup of coffee, or singing along to my favorite music during a drive.

I enjoy knitting, board games, cozy video games, and spending time with my husband and our pets. I am energized by time with friends and spaces that feel warm, grounded, and unhurried.