Mindfully Healing

Sydney Schaefer, MA

Psychotherapist

Clinical experience supporting individuals facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, panic disorders, trauma, interpersonal and relational issues, and major life transitions. I utilize a range of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

My Story

My path to becoming a therapist began with a curiosity about people’s inner worlds and a natural sensitivity to the emotional experiences around me. As a child, I was often anxious and deeply affected by the world. I felt things intensely and picked up on emotions others didn’t always notice. That sensitivity, while overwhelming at times, gave me a deep understanding of how important it is to feel supported, grounded, and truly understood. Those early experiences led me down what now feels like a natural path: helping others through therapy. I know firsthand how isolating and disorienting it can feel to struggle internally, especially when the world around you feels overstimulating or disconnected. That’s why I strive to create a space that feels steady, warm, and validating, where you don’t have to carry everything on your own. My approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and a deep respect for each person’s unique story. I work to meet people where they are, with honesty and care, and help them move toward the version of life that feels most authentic and manageable for them. Outside of the therapy room, I find peace in nature and joy in spending time with animals. I share my home with an affectionate orange cat and a playful beagle, both of whom remind me daily of the importance of presence, connection, and unconditional care.

Professional Experience

My background includes working in nonprofit settings that support individuals with disabilities and those facing economic barriers. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the many factors that influence mental health and well-being. I have also worked with a wide range of individuals in both clinical and in-home settings, gaining experience with anxiety disorders, trauma, chronic illness, developmental delays, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. 

I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychological Services from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and am currently working toward LPCC licensure. I take a holistic approach to therapy, drawing from research-backed modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care. My goal is to tailor treatment to each individual’s unique needs, with a focus on creating a supportive and empowering therapeutic environment.

Special Offerings:

Clinician Specialties

Counseling for Anxiety

Is anxiety taking over your life? Does it feel like you can’t control it no matter how hard you try? Have you already tried therapy but found it ineffective? If this sounds like you, Mindfully Healing can help. Our practice offers the most effective forms of treatment, to get relief from the anxiety that you deserve. When it comes to treating anxiety disorders, research shows that therapy is usually the most effective option. That’s because anxiety therapy – as opposed to anxiety medication – treats more than just symptoms to the problem.

Grief & Bereavement Counseling

Bereavement and grief aren’t light-hearted topics. Bereavement refers to the process of recovering from the death of a loved one, and grief is a reaction for any form of loss. Both encompass a wide range of emotions such as fear, anger and deep, deep sadness. The process of adapting to a loss can dramatically change from person to person, depending on his or her background, beliefs, relationship to the person who’s passed, and other factors. Common symptoms of grief can be physical, emotional or social.

Therapy for Depression

Are you feeling hopeless, isolated and not your usual self? You might be feeling depressed or deep despair.
Child and Adolescent Therapy

Child & Adolescent Therapy

At Mindfully Healing, we believe that every child and adolescent deserves a safe space to express themselves, explore their feelings, and develop the tools they need to thrive. Our dedicated team of licensed therapists is committed to providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to the unique needs of each young individual. We understand that children and teens face a variety of challenges, from academic stress to emotional struggles. Our therapeutic approach is designed to foster a supportive environment where young clients can feel understood and empowered. Through a blend of play therapy, talk therapy, and family involvement, we aim to help children and adolescents navigate their experiences and emotions.

"Mindfully Healing embraces a personal growth based model unlike a problem or deficiency based model of traditional mental health... Our clients experience this during their first session."

Services and Pricing

Health Insurance

In-Network With: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Health Partners, PrimeWest, UCare, Medical Assistance, Cigna, Aetna

Copays or payment towards your insurance deductible is due at the beginning of each session. HSA and flexible spending payments are also accepted. **Please consult with your insurance provider if you are unsure of your copay or plan deductible.


Not In-Network With: EAP

Private Pay

Individual Rate: $150 per session

Family Rate: $200 per session

Why Private Pay is Beneficial for Some Clients?
  • Insurance does not cover relational difficulties such as couples and family therapy, they require a DSM-V diagnosis for one of the members. As a fee-for-service provider, I do not have to give you a mental health diagnosis.
  • Mental health diagnoses can follow you and be documented on health records and can result in affecting life insurance applications, health insurance applications and other benefits or services.
  • Together, we can determine how many times we meet instead of the insurance company making that decision.
  • Since a treatment plan, notes and billing information are not being released to an insurance company, a greater amount of confidentiality is in place for you.
Location:

Send a Message

Location

Mindfully Healing
4829 Minnetonka Blvd, suite 202
St Louis Park, MN 55416
Fax
(952) 491-9460

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