Life is full of seasons, and some feel like stormy, uncertain chapters. A job loss, a shifting relationship, or a delayed dream can leave you questioning, “What’s wrong with me? Why can’t I keep it all together?” At Lighthouse Counseling LTD , with locations across Minnesota, I want to remind you of a powerful truth: You’re not broken—you’re becoming. Understanding the Stress of Life Transitions From a clinical perspective, transitions—whether planned or unexpected—can activate your brain’s stress response system. Your nervous system thrives on predictability, so when routines, roles, or relationships change, it’s normal to experience anxiety, irritability, or even depressive symptoms. This discomfort isn’t a sign of failure; it’s your brain and body adapting to new circumstances. At Lighthouse Counseling LTD, our experienced therapists in Minnesota help you navigate these changes with evidence-based approaches. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), I’ve seen how transitions can feel overwhelming but also serve as opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and resilience. Reframing Your Journey with Therapy Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you—it’s about empowering you to reconnect with your inner strength and move forward with clarity and intention. Our counselors use proven therapeutic approaches to guide you through life’s transitions, including: Narrative Therapy: Reframe your story to focus on your resilience and potential, not your struggles. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns to build healthier coping strategies. Values-Based Reflection: Clarify what matters most to you, whether it’s faith, family, creativity, or community, to guide your next steps. In our sessions, we explore meaningful questions to help you gain clarity: What beliefs about yourself are being challenged by this transition? What coping strategies have supported you in the past? What values will anchor you in this new chapter? Our goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to embrace your evolving self. Personalized Healing for Your Unique Journey At Lighthouse Counseling LTD, we believe healing is not one-size-fits-all. Whether you find strength in mindfulness practices, creative expression, spiritual faith, or community connections, our therapists tailor sessions to your unique needs. With multiple locations across Minnesota, including Huthcinson, Waconia, Willmar, Litchfield, Sauk Rapids, and Shakopee, we’re here to support individuals, couples, and families facing life’s challenges. Our counseling services are designed to help you: Build resilience during times of uncertainty. Develop practical tools to manage stress and anxiety. Rediscover your purpose and direction. Why Choose Lighthouse Counseling LTD? With a team of compassionate, licensed therapists across Minnesota, Lighthouse Counseling LTD is committed to walking alongside you during life’s transitions. Whether you’re grieving a loss, navigating a career change, or seeking clarity in your relationships, our personalized approach helps you move forward with confidence. As Ashley Brinkman, LPCC, I’m dedicated to helping you find your path forward with empathy and expertise. We offer both in-person and telehealth counseling services, making it easy to access support from anywhere in Minnesota. Our flexible scheduling and welcoming environment ensure you can find the care you need, when you need it. Take the Next Step Toward Becoming If you’re in a season of transition, you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Lighthouse Counseling LTD , we’re here to help you rediscover your strength, clarify your values, and embrace the person you’re becoming. Contact us today to schedule a session at one of our Minnesota locations or explore our telehealth options. Ready to start your journey? Reach out to Lighthouse Counseling LTD at 855-454-2463 or visit our website at www.lighthousecounseling.com to learn more about our services and book an appointment. Let’s walk this path together.

At Lighthouse Counseling, LTD, we are thrilled to introduce Abbe Dufault , our newest intern, to our Waconia, MN location. Abbe brings a fresh perspective, a compassionate heart, and a dedication to helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys. Her addition strengthens our mission to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment for clients seeking counseling in Waconia and the surrounding areas. Meet Abbe Dufault, Counseling Intern Abbe earned her bachelor’s degree i n psychology from Crown College and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in counseling at the same institution. With a deep commitment to serving her community, Abbe is excited to intern at Lighthouse Counseling, where she can support individuals, families, and couples in achieving emotional and psychological wellness. Abbe’s passion lies in helping clients facing anxiety, depression, and life transitions. She believes everyone has the potential for growth and healing, and she is dedicated to fostering a warm, empathetic space where clients feel truly seen and heard. Her counseling approach is grounded in person-centered therapy and narrative therapy , emphasizing each individual’s unique life story, strengths, and goals. Whether you’re navigating a major life change, struggling with anxiety, or seeking support for depression, Abbe is here to walk alongside you with authenticity and care. Her goal is to empower clients to embrace their true selves and overcome challenges in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. Why Choose Lighthouse Counseling in Waconia, MN? Located in the heart of Waconia, MN, Lighthouse Counseling, LTD is a trusted resource for mental health support in Carver County and beyond. Our team of experienced therapists and interns, including Abbe, offers a wide range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals, couples, and families. We specialize in addressing: Anxiety and Depression: Helping clients manage overwhelming emotions and build coping strategies. Life Transitions: Supporting individuals through major changes, such as career shifts, relationship changes, or personal growth. Couples and Family Counseling: Strengthening relationships and fostering healthy communication. Trauma and Grief: Providing a safe space to process loss and heal from past experiences. Our Waconia location is home to a diverse team of professionals, including Larry Bengtson, MSE, LPCC , the founder of Lighthouse Counseling, who specializes in marriage and couples counseling, and Tomasina Uttecht , another talented intern with a focus on children’s behavioral health and family systems. Together, our team is committed to holistic, evidence-based care that nurtures the emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being of our clients. What Sets Abbe Apart? Abbe’s approach to counseling is both compassionate and structured, blending empathy with a focus on actionable growth. Her use of narrative therapy allows clients to reframe their experiences and discover new perspectives, while her person-centered approach ensures that every session is tailored to the client’s unique needs. Whether you’re seeking support for mental health challenges or guidance through a life transition, Abbe is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. As a Waconia native, Abbe is deeply connected to the community and understands the unique challenges faced by residents in the area. Her local roots and commitment to mental health make her a valuable addition to our team. Schedule an Appointment with Abbe Dufault Today We invite you to connect with Abbe Dufault at our Waconia, MN counseling center. Whether you’re seeking individual therapy, couples counseling, or support for life transitions, Abbe is ready to provide compassionate, personalized care. At Lighthouse Counseling, we believe in empowering our clients to thrive, and Abbe’s warm and empathetic approach is a perfect fit for this mission. To schedule an appointment with Abbe or any of our skilled therapists, contact Lighthouse Counseling, LTD today. You can reach us through our website or by calling our Waconia office. Let us help you take the first step toward healing and growth. Contact Us Lighthouse Counseling, LTD Waconia, MN Request an Appointment | Contact Counselor