Meet Sydney

I’m Sydney (she/her, eldest daughter, Scorpio), the owner and sole therapist at New Pathways Counseling! :)

When I’m not with clients or doing paperwork, you’ll find me spending time with my wife, family, friends, and of course my cats, Venus and Karma. I’m a big fan of being comfortable and making sure others feel the same way (sweatpants and no “big lights” are essential). I also enjoy video games, staying up-to-date on internet trends and news, trying new restaurants and rating food, and researching things I am passionate about (I will watch a 30 minute video of people comparing vacuums to find the best one).

Who I See

I work with adults and young adults who are exploring their identity and may be noticing that some parts of life just aren’t working or feeling the way they want them to. Many of the people I see are moving through transitions, questioning old patterns, or feeling ready to make changes but unsure of where to start.

I also work with people who are curious about how their lived experiences have shaped who they are. Relationships, identity, neurodivergence, family dynamics, trauma, culture? I’m all about helping you explore it.

How I Work

I believe therapy should be collaborative. It’s a place where I completely trust that you are the expert on your experiences and life. I show up as a therapist who understands that our relationships, identities, culture, and the systems around us shape how we move through the world. I believe real change happens in our therapeutic relationship itself, which means I’m engaged, curious, and genuinely in it with you.

I’m a bit of a hype woman and will absolutely support your choices, celebrate your growth, and remind you of your strengths. And when it feels right, I’ll give a gentle nudge and ask if you’re ready to be challenged in ways that help you grow. I draw from emotion-focused, strengths-based, attachment-based, and trauma-informed approaches, all through a social justice and intersectional lens.

We Might Work Well Together If...

You want a genuine relationship with your therapist; You’re looking for someone who describes themselves as chill, warm, and laidback, but can also call you out for the sake of growth (if you’re ready) ((I promise I’m not scary)); You enjoy humorous moments that happen alongside insightful moments or big revelations that may involve crying. Also, if you swear in session, I probably will too.

TRANSPARENCY AND IDENTITY

I am a White, American English-speaking, non-disabled, cisgender, lesbian woman. I believe therapy works best when there is honesty and trust in the room, and I think it’s especially important to be transparent about my values and identity so you can decide whether I feel like a good fit for you.

My work is grounded in values of curiosity, compassion, authenticity, humor, and respect for each person’s autonomy and lived experience. Creating a space that is inclusive, LGBTQ+ affirming, and supportive of people exploring identity, relationships, and personal growth are some of the values I am proud to express.

I also recognize that no therapist can fully understand every lived experience. I approach this work as a therapist with humility and a commitment to ongoing learning from my clients and the communities I serve.

The Technical Stuff

I completed my graduate program in Minnesota in 2023 with a Master’s Degree (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and I received my Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) license in December 2025 in the state of Minnesota.

License #5352

I am a certified Managing and Adapting Practice: (MAP) therapist as of March 2024, and I am also a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT) as of January 2026. I am CBT and DBT informed and am open to using these techniques and resources in our work together. I mainly work through a conversational, feminist, and intersectional lens where I believe authenticity and your expertise on your lived experience are the main contributing factors to change. If you have any questions about my experience or license, please reach out!