Lynn Whalen, MSW, LICSW
120 7th Street, Suite 104
Two Harbors, MN 55616
218-301-1761
Welcome to Berkano!
Hello!
My name is Lynn Whalen, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and the founder of Berkano Counseling. Born and raised in Northern Minnesota, I now reside on the scenic North Shore, just north of Duluth.
I provide therapy services from my office in Two Harbors, MN, offering in-person sessions for those who prefer face-to-face therapy. I also offer virtual/telehealth appointments for individuals across the State of Minnesota.
I earned my Master’s in Social Work (MSW) from The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth in May 2021. Since then, I have been working as a psychotherapist and have recently transitioned into my own private practice. My educational background also includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Arts and Sciences (2003), an Associate’s Degree in Medical Assisting (2004), and a Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology (2011).
Before becoming a therapist, I spent 15 years working in the medical and education sectors, taking on roles such as instructor, project manager, and education specialist. I bring this wealth of professional and life experience into my work with clients, providing a well-rounded and empathetic therapeutic approach.
To learn more about Berkano Counseling and my therapeutic approach, please click on the "Read More" button below.
Trauma: The Jack of All Trades
I work with individuals facing a wide range of mental health diagnoses, many of which are deeply connected to difficult life experiences—connections we may not always recognize. Together, we will piece together your unique story, helping you gain a clearer understanding of the "why" behind your mental health challenges. Through our collaborative work together, we work to discover underlying adverse experiences that may be contributing to the symptoms you’re facing.
Trauma, depression, and anxiety are three of the most common issues clients come to me for; see below for more information on each.
Trauma
Depression
Anxiety
Trauma is highly individual, meaning that what is traumatic for one person may not be for another. The severity of trauma’s impact often depends on factors like the nature of the event, personal history, support systems, and individual resilience. Recognizing and addressing trauma is a critical step toward healing and regaining a sense of safety and control in life.
Depression is more than just a temporary feeling of sadness; it is a complex, multifaceted condition that affects the whole person. Recognizing the signs and seeking help are crucial steps toward recovery and reclaiming a sense of well-being.
Anxiety, while a normal part of life, can become overwhelming and debilitating when it disrupts daily functioning. Understanding its symptoms and seeking appropriate help are vital steps toward regaining control and fostering resilience.
Walking the Path Together: A Collaborative and Trauma-Informed Approach to Healing
My approach combines EMDR, ACT, and DBT, while also integrating Ego State Therapy and somatic experiencing techniques. This blend allows me to address the whole person, helping clients process past traumas, understand and manage their emotions, and connect with their inner selves and bodily experiences.
EMDR Therapy
EMDR is a powerful, structured therapy that helps clients process past traumas, reduce emotional distress, and transform negative beliefs. It works by leveraging the brain's natural healing processes, allowing clients to move forward with a greater sense of peace and resilience.
Ego State Therapy
Ego State Therapy offers a compassionate framework for exploring the multifaceted nature of the self, allowing clients to connect with their inner parts, resolve inner conflicts, and foster a sense of self-cohesion. It empowers individuals to embrace all parts of themselves, transforming past wounds into strengths and promoting healing from within.
ACT Therapy
ACT is about helping individuals live a rich, meaningful life by fostering acceptance of what cannot be changed and commitment to actions that reflect their deepest values. It empowers clients to move through pain rather than be held back by it, enhancing their ability to thrive amid life’s inevitable challenges.
Somatic Experiences
By integrating somatic experiences into EMDR, clients not only process the cognitive and emotional impacts of trauma but also release and heal the physical effects stored in their bodies. This approach fosters a more comprehensive recovery, allowing individuals to reclaim a sense of safety, regulation, and embodiment.
DBT Therapy
DBT is a comprehensive, structured therapy that empowers individuals to build a life worth living by balancing acceptance and change. It provides practical skills that help clients navigate emotional challenges, improve relationships, and gain control over their actions, leading to a more fulfilling and stable life.