Lori Helgestad
Outpatient Therapy Intern
Education:
Bethel University - M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling (expected completion May, 2027)
California State University, Sacramento - B.S. Physical Education, Biodynamics
More About Lori Helgestad
Clinical Interests:
My current clients are adults who present with a variety of emotional and behavioral health challenges. My clinical interests are collaborating with clients on issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, stress management, relationship challenges, chronic pain, chronic health conditions, career concerns, holistic wellness and health promotion, and women’s behavioral health challenges related to post-partum, perimenopause, and menopause.
Clinical Approach:
My training has prepared me to hold nonjudgmental space combined with multicultural sensitivity for clients while utilizing a holistic, trauma informed, client-centered, and strengths-based approach to counseling. Of the many theoretical approaches and therapeutic interventions available in the counseling field, I lean toward the cognitive behavioral approaches of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral therapy) and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). Additionally, I favor EFT (Emotional-Focused Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), Narrative Therapy, and Ecotherapy (nature-based therapy), all of which I intend to seek additional training. My 200-hour certified yoga teacher training also informs and influences my approach to counseling. I appreciate and continue to explore the mind-body connection. The mental health counseling program at Bethel University has prepared me to incorporate client religious beliefs/practices/faith, and spirituality into the counseling process when a client chooses to do so, regardless of faith background.
Hobbies:
Most of my hobbies include the outdoors and/or physical movement. I enjoy camping, hiking, figure skating, biking, yoga, tennis, cross-country skiing, and kayaking. I enjoy walking in my neighborhood regional park for exercise among the 374 acres of diverse natural habitats of forest, marsh, and prairie. I especially love my walks when I happen to spot owls or hear them. I am a lifelong learner and enjoy reading books or listening to podcasts that pertain to health and wellness.