Two New Therapists Join Mankato Behavioral Health Team at LSS
Two new mental health professionals have joined the Behavioral Health team at Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS) in Mankato. Kaylie Erickson and Jackie Wood bring a wide range of specialization to LSS Behavioral Health including for individuals, children, families and couples.
“Kaylie and Jackie provide a safe, non-judgmental space to receive support on your journey to wellbeing,” said Amanda Luedtke, LSS Behavioral Health Regional Director. “Both counselors offer a calm presence that puts others at ease so they can better process their thoughts and feelings.”
Erickson is a licensed independent clinical social worker who specializes in anxiety, anger management, family relationships and parenting, emotion regulation and behavior modification. She will start training in January for certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based model to treat children and youth who have experienced trauma.
She earned a Master of Social Work degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Prior to her new role, Erickson provided therapeutic and support services to children and youth with LSS Therapeutic Foster Care for four years. “I am passionate about building a connection with people I work with,” she said. “Therapy is not meant to ‘fix you,’ because you are not broken. I work with people to empower them and help them process, uncover strengths and to learn new skills to handle life’s challenges.”
Wood is a licensed professional clinical counselor whose areas of specialization include older adults, grief and loss, anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues and identity concerns. She has nearly a decade of experience in the mental health field, including case management, residential programs and outpatient therapy. Wood strives to establish collaborative relationships during therapy sessions. “We want people to know that if they or others they know are struggling, we are here to help,” she said.
The mission of LSS Behavioral Health is to empower people of all ages to navigate obstacles and empower them to create their best lives. Services include individual, group and family therapy, mental health assessments, and substance abuse treatment.
To speak with a mental health professional or make an appointment, please contact LSS Behavioral Health Services at 507.625.7660 or visit our Mental Health web page.