- Client-centered work
- Cognitive behavioral tools
- Mindfulness practice
About Shari
Shari Peterson is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Minnesota with 20 years of experience in mental health. She has worked in community mental health, school settings, and outpatient treatment, and has provided three years of one-on-one therapy. Shari addresses concerns such as depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, ADHD, relationship and family problems, and issues common to young adults navigating life changes.
She takes a straightforward, relational approach. Sessions focus on clear goals and practical steps. Conversations look at patterns in relationships, day-to-day habits, and how past experience shapes current reactions. She uses client-centered work alongside cognitive-behavioral tools and mindfulness to help people manage symptoms and make small, steady changes.
Shari also draws on the Gottman Method for relationship work and motivational interviewing when substance use or change resistance is part of the problem. Narrative elements can help people reframe difficult stories about themselves. This mix is chosen to match the problem at hand rather than a one-size-fits-all plan.
People often come for help with stress, sleep problems, body image or identity questions, parenting strain, and the push-pull of early adult relationships. She has experience supporting those who have lived with complex trauma, domestic violence, and co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns.
Sessions aim to be practical and honest. Shari works with clients to set clear steps, try manageable experiments between meetings, and track what is or isn’t working. She asks clients to be active in shaping goals and next steps.
Therapeutic approaches and online sessions
Shari uses client-centered therapy to focus on each person's perspective and priorities. This approach emphasizes listening, reflecting, and helping clients identify what matters most so sessions follow their goals.She also uses cognitive behavioral therapy, which looks at thoughts, behaviors, and feelings together. CBT offers practical strategies for managing anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and habits that get in the way of daily life.
When relationship patterns are a concern, elements of the Gottman Method are used to improve communication and reduce conflict. These techniques are aimed at clearer conversations and better problem-solving between partners.
Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss options, try methods that fit the issue, and adjust based on what the client finds helpful. Clients are invited to give feedback so goals and techniques change as needed.
Confirm current session options before booking since formats are not listed in the biography. Online sessions can make it easier to fit meetings into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. Talk with the therapist during the matching step to learn which session formats she currently offers and what would work best for your situation.
Areas of expertise
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
20+ years
Listed in
Minnesota
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does she help with?
She works with depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, ADHD, relationship and family problems, sleep and eating concerns, and related issues.
What is her therapy style like?
Her style is relational and practical, using client-centered conversations plus cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness techniques to set goals and try small changes.
How much experience does she have?
She has 20 years working in mental health, including community settings, schools, and outpatient care, with three years providing individual therapy.
What are her credentials and location?
She is a LICSW licensed in Minnesota and practices there.
Does she work in other languages or with international clients?
Sessions are offered in English and she is not accepting international clients.
What session formats does she offer?
Please confirm current session options before booking, as the biography does not list specific formats.
How are sessions priced?
Cost varies by location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy through BetterHelp is for adults aged 18 and over and is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the emergency numbers. Find someone else by name.