About Us
Vision
All people who prioritize their mental health flourish with access to effective treatment, supportive services, and communities that are inclusive and welcoming.
Philosophy
Whole-person wellness starts at PMMH. We consider each person in their entirety; integrating treatment, care and resources which support a healthy mind, body, and spirit. We encourage each person to define their life goals— physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, vocational, and interpersonal—and we assist to achieve them. Our approach assists people in leading full lives with a focus on overall health and well-being.
Values
-Dignity and respect with all client interactions
-Create a welcoming atmosphere that reflects compassion and embraces differences through awareness of diversity, equality and inclusivity.
-Person-centered approaches that ensure all people have the right to make informed choices about their lives.
Beliefs
A person’s mental health is more than a diagnosis. We recognize that there are many factors, including environmental, socioeconomic, cultural, etc., that should be considered when providing services. We aim to foster hope, health and well-being that assists the clients life overall.
Theoretical Approach
We do not have a specific theory/modality that is utilized, as we believe it depends on each client and their specific needs. However, we do provide services that are person-centered and strengths-based. We utilize evidence based treatment modalities.
Our Therapists
Rebecca Koskiniemi, MSW, LICSW
Hello! Please call me Becky, I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the state of Minnesota and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Colorado, Montana and Utah. I have my Masters in Clinical Social Work and have been providing Mental Healthcare since 2013. I offer telehealth services.
Prior to PMMH, I worked in home for over four years with all ages and all diagnoses. I have also worked in a residential Substance Use Disorder facility where I gained valuable experience with dual diagnoses clients. Before my journey into Social Work and Mental Health I was employed for ten years in a Nursing Home and gained knowledge of Geriatrics and the day to day struggles that can occur for this age group.
My specialties are Trauma, Insomnia, Depression, Anxiety, as well as care and treatment with the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with all ages from birth to 99+.
On the personal side, I have three children. They are all successful adults and I couldn't be prouder of them. I love to travel and do so any chance I can. I also enjoy fishing, camping, hiking, reading and spending time with my children and grandchildren.
Victoria Selander, MSW, LGSW
Hi there! My name is Victoria and I graduated from the College of St. Scholastica (CSS) in 2021 with my Master’s in Social Work. I work at Peaceful Mind Mental Health as an office manager and psychotherapist. I completed my undergraduate degree in 2018 at CSS and worked in a human services setting for three years. I have been with Peaceful Mind Mental Health since 2020.
I have experience working in-home with children and families focusing on safety and overall wellbeing. I meet clients where they are at in their journey and assist them in getting them to where they want to be. I follow a strengths-based, person-centered approach and tailor services to each individual client.
My specialities include anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, emotional intelligence, coping skills, etc.. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults.
I spend most of my free time I have with my two children and husband. I enjoy camping, exploring new places, reading, yoga, playing tennis, and journaling. I love meeting new people and assisting them in finding peace and contentment in their lives.
Kate Monson, MSW, LGSW
Hello, I’m Kate. My pronouns are she/her/s and they/them/theirs. I hold a clinically focused MSW from The College of St. Scholastica. I graduated in the spring of 2022, and I am a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW). My educational background is seeded in the B.A. in Gender, Women’s, and Sexuality Studies I earned through the University of MN, Duluth in 2013. Currently, I am with clients through telehealth only.
I have recently been employed as a Mental Health Practitioner for IRTS and ARMHS practicing with adults living with serious or persistent mental illness diagnosis. I currently sit with clients ages 12+ from a variety of identities and backgrounds. I am a LGBTQIA2S+ affirming and identified practitioner, and I appreciate working with queer, trans and gender explorative clients, as well as, with their families. I provide care for clients with varied relationship and family structures. I believe in a society where the stories of historically marginalized communities are uplifted and celebrated in our lives individually and collectively. I practice allyship to BIPOC.
My personal and professional values are rooted in the following practices: feminism, earth-honoring, deep listening, trauma informed, and mindful presence. My philosophy is healing unfolds through courage, the loving presence of others, relationship, curiosity, and an intuitive acceptance that being human is a complex, unique, and universal experience. My theoretical training is person centered, strengths and mindfulness based, and grounded in Relational Cultural, Feminist, Queer, Attachment, and Polyvagal Theory.
Outside of work, I seek a personal sense of joy, meaning, curiosity, and pleasure in my life. As a white-bodied third generation Norwegian and European American, I practice learning about my cultural heritage and ancestral identity. I live with my chosen and non-traditional family, including our dogs, and a garden filled with bees and butterflies in the summer months. I am an ardent admirer of mystery, dancing, music, poetry, reading, writing, and being in nature--especially swimming.
It is my hope to combine my clinical training and intuitive abilities to be a companion for you as you explore your therapeutic journey and grow to trust your own inner voice of wisdom. Thank you for considering me to be a part of your healing and mental health journey. If there are appointments available through online scheduling, I am accepting new clients. I look forward to hearing from you.
Lana Kallon, MSW, LGSW
Hello! My name is Lana, and I am a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Minnesota. I graduated with my Bachelors in Social Work, Gerontology and a minor in Sociology in May of 2015. I started my career right after graduation and have been working in the social service field since then. I work with clients through telehealth only.
Since starting my career, I have primarily focused on working with geriatric patients. I started working in a nursing home serving residents in the long-term care setting and the transitional care unit. From there, I went to work for a primary care provider clinic proving behavioral health services to adults and older adults. Currently, I work for Lutheran Social Service of MN as a care coordinator for those ages 65+ in various counties.
On a personal note, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our new dog Rego who is an 8-week-old Dutch Shepherd. I enjoy being outside as much as I can as the Minnesota weather allows. In my spare time I enjoy reading, cooking, going to movies, bowling, training dogs and working on my best friend’s farm.
Annastasia Ramig, MSW, LGSW
Hey, I’m so glad you’re here! You can call me Stasia—it’s much easier than Annastasia. I’m a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) with an MSW from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, and I’m here to support Minnesota-based clients through telehealth therapy, Monday through Friday.
My goal is to make therapy a welcoming and uplifting experience. I want to create a space where you can feel comfortable being your true self, with a bit of lightheartedness and humor sprinkled in to keep things engaging. I love working with people who are ready to make positive changes and work toward a more fulfilling life. As an LGBTQIA+ allied therapist, I value advocacy, social justice, and authenticity.
I’m trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and I focus on helping clients manage distress, embrace emotions, and build resilience. We’ll use strength-based, person-centered approaches, focusing on mindfulness, acceptance, and meaningful action to help you overcome challenges. My specialties include depression, codependency, anxiety, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
A bit more about me: I started my career with a BSW from The University of St. Scholastica in 2019, working in Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health (ARMHS). After that, I moved into oncology social work and program management at a local hospital before shifting to full-time therapy in 2022. I also work casually as a Mobile Crisis Clinician in the evenings, helping people in urgent situations.
Outside of work, I love reading (Pride and Prejudice is my favorite!), going to concerts, traveling, hiking, and exploring Minnesota’s North Shore. I spend lots of time with my partner and my dog Sparky, who might even pop into a session now and then. I’d love to connect with you! I offer free 15-minute consultations so we can get to know each other and answer any questions you may have. Take that first step toward healing—reach out, and let’s get started!
Thomas Wait, MSW, LGSW
Hello, my name is Tom and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Minnesota and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Dakota. I have been providing services with Peaceful Mind Mental Health for approximately three years. Prior to my career in mental health I gained experience in a variety of social service sectors, including county social services, school social work, residential treatment, and most recently directing the program services of an Autism clinic specializing in ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neurocognitive disorders.
I obtained my Master of Social Work degree from Walden University in 2021 and completed my clinical field study and clinical supervision with Peaceful Mind Mental Health. I currently provide services to children, adolescents, and adults and provide individual, couples, families, and group intervention. Additionally, I provide assessments for children and adults suspecting Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I obtained advanced certification in LGBTQ+, trauma, and Autism Spectrum Disorder in order to better provide services to these populations. Additionally, I am certified in Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood.
I thoroughly enjoy working with all populations, but hold a particular interest in providing trauma informed care and relationships and attachments. I currently provide in-person and telehealth services out of our Alexandria and New York Mills offices and provide community in-home supports in the surrounding communities.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my children and our dog, Emma. We stay active in extra-curricular events and enjoy spending time outdoors exploring and enjoying nature. My interests include drawing and painting and mastering the skill of self-care.
Together, we'll embrace hope and healing, and set sail toward a brighter tomorrow.
Alissa Sladek, MSW, LICSW
Hello! I’m Alissa. I have my master's in social work and have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I have my LICSW in Minnesota and my LCSW in Texas. I work with adults 18 and over. I have experience with many different diagnoses but have a passion for working with individuals who have BPD. I offer services through Telehealth only.
I feel that therapy is a relationship, and that trust is important to reach your goals. I like to meet people where they are at in their mental health journey, understanding everyone is different and needs different things. I have like using DBT skills but have used many different approaches depending on what is the best fit for the individual.
In my free time I love to be outside and spend time with friends and family.
Jennifer Huntley, LPCC, LADC
Hello! My name is Jenny and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) in the state of Minnesota. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Liberal Arts for Human Services from the University of Minnesota Morris in 2009 and Master's degree in Counseling from Crown College in 2019. Additionally, I obtained my LADC in 2024.
I have worked in the mental health field since 2007 where I have gained experience supporting people of all ages with mental health diagnoses and challenges. I enjoy helping individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges, addiction and substance use, and overall meeting the client where they are at and identifying their needs.
I primarily utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach, as well solution-focused theories. I have experience working with diverse populations, including LGBTQIA+ community. My areas of strength include working with anxiety, depression, coping skills, trauma, substance use, and personality disorders.
In my free time I enjoy spending time with my husband and three children. I love to be active outside and travel as often as possible.
Samantha Ylitalo, Clinical Trainee
My name is Samantha Ylitalo and I have a bachelors degree in social work. I received my first masters degree in special education with an emphasis in applied behavior analysis therapy from UND in 2023. I have worked in a clinical setting with autistic children providing treatment planning and parent training to families. I am now working on my second masters in clinical social work through MSUM and I hope to serve children with behavioral issues as well as work with adults who are struggling as well.
I have lived in rural Minnesota my whole life and I have a passion for helping others and have seen the need for services within rural communities.