About Emily
She/They, Her/Them

Emily Charakas, BA

MA Candidate & Clinical Trainee

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Hi, I’m Emily! 

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“In the midst of hate, I found there was, within me, an invincible love.
In the midst of tears, I found there was, within me, an invincible smile.
In the midst of chaos, I found there was, within me, an invincible calm.
I realized, through it all, that…
In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer.
And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger – something better, pushing right back.
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– Albert Camus, The Stranger

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We all have our own life stories, strengths, and obstacles. Life can be challenging, but within each of us lies a wellspring of strength, whether we can see it or not. My goal as a mental health counselor is to create a space where we can meet in a genuine and authentic way to identify and overcome the obstacles that are creating conflict and distress in your life. I believe in fostering a collaborative space where we can explore your life story together.  I view therapy through a systemic lens, meaning we'll consider how your family, social circles, and societal influences have impacted you. By examining these different angles, we can gain a deeper understanding of what makes you, you.

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I use an approach that will focus on building up your strengths to help you rediscover your self-worth. Together, we can work to find a sense of meaning, direction, and purpose. We can find ways to help you overcome your life stressors, and how to accept and find peace with the things in your life you cannot change.

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I work with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, trauma, and life stressors. I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach that incorporates  DBT, CBT, humanistic, and existential theories and techniques to build resilience and develop a better understanding of emotions and insights. I continually work towards being an antiracist, LGBTQIA+ friendly, multiculturally competent provider.

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I am working on my Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling at the University of St Thomas.

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In my free time, I am an avid reader of both fantasy and non-fiction books. I have a deep interest in gardening, creating art, playing Dungeons & Dragons with friends, and spending time in nature.