Thrive Therapy

08/29/2025

Children’s lives are touched by trauma on a regular basis, no matter how much parents or teachers try to keep the “bad things” away. Instead of shielding children from the dangers, violence or tragedies around us, psychologists suggest adults talk honestly to kids about what is happening.

Learn how to guide the conversation and take care of yourself in the process: https://at.apa.org/4cy

08/29/2025

What to Expect in Therapy

Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s normal to wonder what your sessions might be like. While each counseling experience is unique, there are a few common themes you can expect along the way:

Emotions

Therapy is a safe place to share whatever is on your mind, without judgment. As you talk through memories, experiences, or patterns, strong emotions may surface, and that’s a natural part of the healing process.

Perspective

Counseling offers a fresh, compassionate way of looking at your current situation. With your therapist’s support, you’ll gain new insight and tools to help you move toward the goals you’ve set for yourself.

Goal Setting

Together with your therapist, you’ll identify what brought you to therapy and clarify what progress or change would look like for you. These goals help guide your sessions and measure your growth over time.

Homework

Much of the work happens between sessions. You may be invited to practice a new skill, try a journaling exercise, or reflect on a reading—all designed to deepen the progress you make in session.

If you’ve ever wondered what therapy might be like, this guide is a great place to start. Click the link below to learn more.

https://thrivetherapymn.com/choosing-therapy/what-to-expect-in-therapy/]

08/27/2025

Thrive Therapy Therapist Highlight: Lindsey Bender, MHP

If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-worth, or the constant feeling of never being “enough,” Lindsey offers a respectful, compassionate space where you can feel valued and validated.

As someone who grew up bi-racial in a predominantly white community, Lindsey carries a deep understanding of identity struggles and the challenges that come with feeling out of place. She is especially passionate about supporting bi-racial individuals and people of color who are seeking a therapist that truly “gets it.”

Lindsey works with young adults (16+) and individuals experiencing stress, major life changes, or uncertainty. Her approach is empowering and collaborative, helping clients reconnect with their strengths and gain clarity on their path forward.

Outside the therapy room, you’ll likely find Lindsey spending time with her husband and their two cats, biking, rock picking, enjoying the water, listening to music, or relaxing with a good movie.

Lindsey offers in person sessions in Burnsville, St. Paul, and also via telehealth.

📞 Ready to begin? Contact us at (612) 658-6050

https://thrivetherapymn.com/bio/lindsey-bender-mhp/

06/05/2025

Therapist Highlight!

Meet Bayly J. Gaffney, one of our incredible intern therapists at Thrive Therapy in Burnsville. In addition to working as a School Psychologist for students in grades 5 through 12 over the past four years, Bayly brings a kind, approachable, and strengths-based approach to her work with children, teens, and young adults.

Bayly is currently completing her clinical internship as she works toward licensure as a Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Minnesota. With a strong background in psychology and education, Bayly creates a supportive space for clients navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges.

Her experiences coaching volleyball, supporting students with disabilities, and leading after-school programs focused on executive functioning give her a well-rounded and practical lens when working with young people.

Bayly is now seeing clients at our Burnsville location. If you or your child could benefit from a thoughtful, grounded, and experienced therapist with a deep understanding of school-related stress and adolescent development, we invite you to reach out.

06/04/2025

We had a blast joining the Grand Old Day festivities this year from our new location on Grand Avenue in Saint Paul! From handing out “free advice“ fortune cookies to connecting with neighbors through a nostalgic therapy booth. It was a meaningful and fun way to introduce ourselves to the community.

Check out our latest blog post to see our highlights from the day, reflections on reducing the stigma around therapy, and why we’re excited to grow in the vibrant neighborhood.

05/29/2025

Will you be at Grand Old Day this Sunday? Is so, stop by and say hello and take a picture at our cute Peanuts inspired therapy booth!

We’ll be handing out “free advice” (spoiler alert: it’s a fortune cookie).

We’re located on the south side of Milton and Chatsworth. See you there!

05/24/2025

Will you be at Grand Old Day on June 1? Come visit us between Milton and Chatsworth! We’d love to see you ❤️

05/07/2025

Meet Jerry Jorgenson, LGSW

Jerry brings a grounded, real-world approach to mental health care. He’s had the privilege of walking alongside clients from all backgrounds, helping them navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges with empathy and clarity.

Jerry is passionate about supporting men in unpacking the societal expectations placed on them and exploring healthier, more authentic ways of being. His easygoing, approachable style helps clients feel at ease, while his adaptable and client-centered approach ensures every session is tailored to what you need.

If you’re looking for a therapist who meets you where you’re at and creates a space where you can feel heard, respected, and supported, Jerry might be a great fit.

Now accepting new clients in Burnsville and St. Paul, MN, reach out today to learn more or get connected.

https://thrivetherapymn.com/bio/jerry-jorgenson/

04/23/2025

Celebrating our 1 year anniversary at our Mankato office!

04/10/2025

Sometimes when we express ourselves our message doesn’t come across the way we intended.

Not everyone processes language the same way

Some people interpret words very literally, which can lead to misunderstandings, especially when figurative language, sarcasm, or implied meanings are used.

Communication styles can vary widely based on personality, neurodiversity, culture, or life experience, and it’s important to approach these differences with curiosity and clarity rather than assumption.

In relationships, differing communication styles, like one partner being very literal while the other relies on subtext or tone, can create tension or confusion.

Therapy can be a valuable space for couples to explore these differences, learn more effective ways to express themselves, and develop shared understanding and respect for how each person communicates.

Comic credit:

04/09/2025

Meet Lindsey Bender, MHP – Now Accepting New Clients!

If you’re feeling emotionally unsettled, navigating big life changes, or just trying to figure out where you fit in, Lindsey Bender is here to walk alongside you. Lindsey offers therapy that is empowering, collaborative, and deeply validating for those facing anxiety, depression, self-esteem struggles, and identity exploration.

Lindsey brings a special passion for supporting bi-racial and multiracial individuals—creating space for the complex experiences and questions that often go unspoken. As someone who’s navigated this herself, she offers a deeply personal and empathetic perspective.

She works with individuals (16+) around anxiety, life transitions, identity formation, women’s issues, family stress, and more—offering care that’s rooted in inclusivity, strength, and mutual respect.

Lindsey sees clients in-person at our Burnsville and St. Paul offices, as well as through telehealth. If you’re ready to feel more grounded, seen, and supported, she’d love to connect with you.

Interested in working with Lindsey? Reach out today to schedule a session!

https://thrivetherapymn.com/bio/lindsey-bender-mhp/

04/08/2025

We’re excited to announce the opening of our beautiful new Thrive Therapy location on Grand Avenue in St. Paul!

This cozy, historic space brings together warmth, comfort, and a team of five diverse therapists offering in-person counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, relationships, and more.

With continued services in Burnsville and Mankato, we’re proud to offer accessible, compassionate care across Minnesota. Now accepting new clients, learn more about our growing team and services in our recent blog post:

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Thrive Therapy Expands Counseling Services to St. Paul We’re thrilled to announce our beautiful new Thrive Therapy location in the heart of vibrant St. Paul, MN! Situated in a charming two-story craftsman home built in 1901, our new office at Grand Avenue captures the perfect blend of historic bea...