Stephanie Clausen-Swenson

Stephanie Clausen-Swenson is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a professional clinical counselor practicing in Minnesota. She is also a certified Adlerian life coach and has an endorsement as an infant mental health specialist. Currently she is enrolled in a doctoral program pursuing a Ph.D. in infant and early childhood development, with a dissertation focused on infant and toddler attachment in relation to their fathers. She has additionally served as a consultant to childcare providers.

Over the past 15 years Stephanie has worked with children and families through a range of challenges including parenting struggles, attachment concerns, grief and loss, pregnancy and postpartum depression, severe anxiety, parental separation, trauma, and other difficult circumstances. She supports people in crisis to identify immediate steps for safety and to locate needed supports, and she partners with clients as they take smaller steps that lead to meaningful change and are celebrated along the way.

Stephanie also enjoys working with young adults who are exploring next steps in life and career. She helps clients clarify goals, reflect on who they want to be, and create practical steps toward that ideal self. Her therapeutic approach is collaborative and client-centered, drawing from psychodynamic principles alongside Alfred Adler’s practical psychology to offer real-time strategies.

Nature often plays a role in her work because she values its calming and restorative effects. She incorporates mind-body practices such as deep breathing, guided imagery, and yogic movement, and she uses role-play and practice in assertive communication when helpful. Stephanie aims to align with each client on shared goals so therapy remains focused and effective, with an emphasis on what will best support the individual’s happiest life.