ABOUT MAKENNA
Psychotherapist + Founder
Hi, I’m Makenna Larson! I’m a dually Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist in Minnesota and Wisconsin, I provide compassionate trauma-informed therapy focused on helping people rediscover their strengths, build resilience, and create meaningful change in their lives.
I’m originally from Eau Claire, WI, and I’ve called Duluth, MN home since moving here to pursue my Bachelor’s in Psychology at University of Wisconsin-Superior and my Master of Social Work at the College of St. Scholastica. I’ve been working in the mental health field since 2019, with experience in intensive residential treatment programs, case management, and private practice therapy. Outside of work, I love filling my cup up with traveling, playing volleyball, reading, and spending quality time with my son and family. My favorite forms of self-care include walking, practicing mindfulness, listening to music, playing with my dogs, and continuing my own therapy, because yes, therapists need therapists too!
What I love most about being a therapist is the honor of witnessing people learn to hold space for their own experiences and emotions. I am passionate about creating a space where clients feel truly heard and empowered. Seeing clients show up for themselves and their relationships in new ways, and knowing that each step in therapy helps break generational patterns is one of the most meaningful and rewarding parts of my work.
Makenna’s Therapy Values
-
All the interventions and approaches I use are grounded in research and science, which means a higher likelihood of positive, lasting outcomes in therapy. I combine this evidence with my clinical experience and your unique needs, creating a personalized approach that is both effective and meaningful.
-
I prioritize seeing people as whole, complex humans, not as a collection of symptoms or labels. Using non-pathologizing language is central to my work because it allows space for understanding, growth, and self-compassion.
-
I value growth and learning because I believe we’re always evolving. In therapy, this means staying up-to-date with research, refining my skills, and tailoring my approach to meet each client’s unique needs. Outside of work, it’s about staying curious, reflecting on my own experiences, and embracing opportunities to grow, so I can bring the most thoughtful, informed, and compassionate care to the people I work with.
-
For me, therapy works best when we take a collaborative approach. I bring my clinical knowledge and experience, and you bring your life, your goals, and your perspective. Together, we explore what makes sense for you, try out new approaches, and navigate challenges in a way that fits your unique needs. This approach is designed to help you feel confident in your choices, trust your instincts, and know that you have the tools to create meaningful change in your life.
-
I believe healing starts with feeling accepted just as you are. In our work together, all parts of you are welcome, your identities, your experiences, and your story. I’m committed to creating a space that is LGBTQ+ affirming, disability affirming, body-accepting, anti-racist, and culturally competent.