WE ARE CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!!

Emma is a licensed counselor in North Dakota and Minnesota. Emma holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from North Dakota State University and earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Emma’s therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, creativity, and a deep respect for each person’s unique journey.

At Empower Counseling, Emma brings a warm, calming presence that resonates with clients of all ages. She enjoys working with young children, families, and adults of all ages facing a wide variety of life challenges including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, family transitions, attachment concerns, and work-related stress. Emma is deeply committed to creating a space where clients feel seen, heard, and genuinely supported. She is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), trained in using the ABC Therapy Model, and is LGBTQ+ affirming - ensuring her practice is inclusive, respectful, and safe for all individuals. Across all age groups, her steady, empathetic demeanor helps create a space where healing and growth can begin.

When she’s not in the therapy room, Emma recharges with the cozy comforts of home. She enjoys time with her partner, family, and her beloved cat, Casper. She’s a passionate crocheter, a fantasy novel enthusiast, and a fan of immersive video games. Emma also loves collecting board games and hosting game nights with friends.

Vera is a Licensed Master Social Worker practicing in both North Dakota and Minnesota. Her warmth, authenticity, and deep empathy shines through in every session. Vera received her graduate degree at the University of North Dakota. Originally from Liberia, Vera came to the United States as a refugee in elementary school. Her personal journey informs every aspect of her work. She brings a lived understanding of loss, transition, cultural identity, and the systemic barriers many face when seeking support. This background fuels her passion for working with diverse communities and individuals from all walks of life.

Vera is also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She approaches her work with a trauma-informed, person-centered, and strength-based lens—believing deeply in the resilience and potential within every person she meets. Vera works with clients ages 5 and up, with a special connection to teens and young adults navigating identity, emotional intensity, and life transitions. Her clinical experience includes helping people manage anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, foster care challenges, and delinquency-related concerns. Vera meets them with calm, curiosity, and unwavering support. In session, Vera’s grounded, non-judgmental presence creates a space where clients feel truly seen and respected. She walks alongside each person as a steady, compassionate advocate — empowering them to reclaim their voice and shape their own story.

Outside of the therapy room, Vera’s vibrant energy carries into her family life with her husband and two children. She loves dancing, singing, staying active, and cherishing joyful moments. (Fun fact: she once coached high school track!)

 Courtenay is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Minnesota and a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in North Dakota. She earned both her bachelor’s degree in psychology and her Master’s in Counseling from Minnesota State University Moorhead. At Empower Counseling, she brings a calm, thoughtful presence that helps clients feel safe, understood, and empowered from the very first session.

Courtenay works with individuals and families ages 8 and up, drawing from her experience supporting people across a wide range of cultural backgrounds. She is especially passionate about working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and takes pride in creating an inclusive, affirming space for all identities and experiences. Her clinical expertise spans anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, relationship challenges, work and family stress, life transitions, domestic violence, divorce, foster care, and more. No matter the challenge, Courtenay believes that everyone’s story matters—and that healing begins when people feel truly heard.

What truly sets Courtenay apart is her ability to meet people exactly where they are. She believes every person’s story matters—and that we all have the power to shape our own narrative. Her therapy style blends gentle guidance, sincere curiosity, and a healthy dose of humor when it’s most needed. Clients often describe her as a steady and compassionate therapist on the journey toward growth and change.

When she’s not in the therapy room, Courtenay enjoys time with her husband, her loved ones, and her two cats, Stella and Simon. She’s a fan of true crime podcasts, emotional TV dramas, and baking sweet treats. You’ll also find her relaxing with a video game, favorite playlist, or creative projects like crochet and paint-by-numbers.

 Sydney is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) in North Dakota, with a passion for creating a therapeutic space where clients feel at ease, accepted, and empowered. She earned both her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of North Dakota.

At Empower Counseling, Sydney brings a warm, bubbly presence and a style that blends empathy with humor. She believes that therapy doesn’t have to feel intimidating—and often, the best healing happens when clients feel safe enough to be themselves. Whether it’s through shared laughter or deep conversation, Sydney uses humor as a powerful tool to build connection and make therapy a positive, uplifting experience.

Sydney works with children, teens, and adults, offering support for anxiety, depression, life transitions, and more. She tailors each session to the individual, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), or other approaches to best meet her clients’ unique needs. Clients often describe Sydney as relatable, down-to-earth, and easy to talk to. She places a strong emphasis on building trust and believes therapy works best when there’s a genuine connection at the heart of it.

Outside the therapy room, Sydney loves spending time with her adventurous pup, Mabel. She’s always up for a hike, a run, or a game of pickleball—and when she’s not outdoors, you’ll find her curled up with a good book or catching up on her favorite Netflix shows.

If you are looking for a therapist who is down to earth, relatable, and dedicated to helping you create positive change, Sydney is excited to walk that path with you! 

Sarah is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in North Dakota and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) with more than 20 years of experience in education and mental health. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Elementary Education and Psychology, and earned her Master’s in School Counseling from Minnesota State University - Mankato. Her career has been shaped by a steady commitment to helping others feel grounded, understood, and supported.

Throughout her work with children, adolescents, and adults, Sarah has developed deep expertise in addressing anxiety, grief, emotional regulation, trauma, social skills, and mindfulness. Her therapeutic foundation is built on trust, collaboration, and honest communication. Sarah’s often blends warmth, structure, and playfulness—especially when working with younger clients! She is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which adds depth and versatility to her therapeutic style. Sarah strongly values communication with families, schools, and other collaboration to support a well-rounded, client-centered approach.

Outside of her professional role, Sarah enjoys simple, meaningful moments—whether it’s reading a good book, hosting a game night, traveling, or spending time outdoors with family and friends.

Please note: From September through June, Sarah offers sessions during evening hours only.

 Ariana is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of North Dakota. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Minnesota State University Moorhead in 2019 and completed her master’s degree in Social Work from Minnesota State University in 2024.

With a background rooted in serving children and families, Ariana has extensive experience within the foster care and child welfare systems. She has also supported survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, bringing both sensitivity and strength to her work. Ariana is trained in Brainspotting and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), giving her powerful tools to help clients process trauma in meaningful and effective ways. At the center of Ariana’s work is a trauma-informed, relationship-driven approach. She is known for her compassion, calm presence, and genuine belief in each person’s potential. Her sessions prioritize emotional safety, trust, and a collaborative spirit—helping clients explore their experiences and uncover the strengths they already carry within.

Ariana also holds a special place in her practice for working with parents of disabled and medically complex children. She provides a space of understanding and practical support for those navigating the emotional and logistical challenges that come with caregiving.

Outside the therapy room, Ariana embraces the joyful chaos of life with her partner, their two daughters, a dog, and a cat. She enjoys camping, exploring the Fargo-Moorhead area, and spending time with close-knit friends. In her quieter moments, you’ll find her immersed in a historical fiction or fantasy novel, enjoying the beach, or juggling a mix of beverages—usually coffee, water, and something fun.

 Jana is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and supervisor in North Dakota, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Minnesota, and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). Jana earned her bachelor’s degree from Valley City State University in Human Services and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Dakota State University. Jana also provides supervision for other professional counselors working towards their licensure.

Jana works with most ages and brings experience supporting clients through anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, childhood trauma, and postpartum emotional health. She has a background in working with individuals affected by Interpersonal Violence, abuse, and sexual assault. Jana has a deep passion for understanding how trauma affects people—not just emotionally and mentally, but physically and across generations. She integrates this awareness into her therapeutic work and is trained in trauma-specific approaches including: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Whether someone is beginning therapy for the first time or returning to work through new experiences, Jana focuses on building a safe, supportive, and uniquely suited approach. Her goal is to help therapy feel like a personalized fit and integrates a variety of therapeutic methods based on each client.

Outside of the therapy room, Jana has an endlessly curious mind and a genuine love for learning. She enjoys soaking up random knowledge through niche podcasts, documentaries, and reading—always eager to explore a new topic that catches her attention. Known for her creativity, she’s quick to dive into a new craft or project that sparks her interest (and occasionally brings that creativity into therapy, too!). Jana lives in West Fargo with her partner, their young child, and three cats—always balancing life with warmth, humor, knowledge, and a bit of cat hair!

Mandy Bernardy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. She earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of North Dakota and has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, clarity, and purpose. As the founder of Empower Counseling, Mandy created therapy business where people can receive high-quality, trauma-informed care in a warm and welcoming environment.

Mandy’s passion and clinical focus center around trauma recovery. She specializes in trauma-based therapeutic approaches, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Brainspotting, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). These modalities allow her to help clients process and heal from difficult life experiences in a safe and structured way. In addition to her trauma work, Mandy is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and the Nurtured Heart Approach, which she integrates to support clients in building emotional regulation, self-awareness, and resilience. Her experience also spans a wide range of topics including: foster care, family challenges, life adjustments, work-related stress and burnout, and complex mental health.

Mandy works with adults and adolescents through a collaborative, warm, and direct approach. Her approach is grounded in mutual trust, honest communication, and a touch of humor. Clients often appreciate her ability to hold space for both serious healing and genuine moments of lightness. As she puts it, “There’s nothing better than a good laugh, the sun on your face, or your favorite song on the radio.”

Outside the office you may often find Mandy on the sidelines of a baseball game, cheering on her son. Mandy values spending time with her family & friends in the FM area. 

**Mandy’s vision for Empower has always been to provide effective care in a space where clients feel safe, respected, and empowered. When you walk through the doors of Empower Counseling, you’ll be welcomed by a team of caring, down-to-earth professionals who are here to listen, support, and help you take the next step—wherever you are on your journey.**