Birch Counseling

10/23/2026

Who takes care of the people who spend their days caring for our youngest learners?

BIRCH Counseling is introducing Caring for the Carers, a six-session counseling group for Pre-K through elementary school teachers.

Created and delivered by former educators, this group provides a small, confidential space for teachers navigating work-related stress, burnout, or mild to moderate anxiety.

Begins: November 3rd
In-Person at the BIRCH Minnetonka Office
Cost is $45 per session for self-pay, or most insurance is accepted

Contact Julia Rose, MA, for more information.
https://bit.ly/4yECmx3

10/19/2026

What makes Breathe. Belong. Begin Again., different?

It's not about adding more homework or "to-do" items to a student's already full schedule. It's a short, practical group where students can learn to notice stress, explore mindfulness and some somatic tools, and strengthen their sense of belonging.

The five-session group is designed and led by Dan O'Brien and Janelle Mellgren Holm.

The first session is Thursday, October 22, from 4:30-5:20 pp.m. and is held in person.

Questions about joining? Contact Janelle.
https://bit.ly/4B2VSFe

10/15/2026

Have you ever watched a mental health video and thought, "That sounds familiar"?

Social media can help people put words to experiences they've struggled to explain. But short videos and checklists don't always tell the whole story.

In our newest blog, Christa Surerus, explores how to value lived experiences while making room for professional guidance, curiosity, and accurate information.

Read Scrolling for Answers here: https://www.birchcounseling.com/blog/2026/10/2/scrolling-for-answers-self-diagnosis-social-media-and-the-power-of-lived-experience

And let us know what stood out most to you.

A reflection for World Mental Health Day 2026 On October 10, the world observes World Mental Health Day under the theme “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change.” The message is clear: the knowledge of people who have lived with mental health challenges belongs at the center of how we ...

10/12/2026

High school can be a lot.

Between schoolwork, friendships, activities, and the pressure to keep up, it's not always easy to find a moment to pause.

That is why we are excited to offer Breathe. Belong. Begin Again., a five-session mindfulness and somatic group designed for high school students.

Together, students will practice noticing stress early, building calming tools, and exploring connection and belonging.

Begins October 22nd
Meets Thursdays, 4:30-5:20 p.m.
At BIRCH Counseling Office
Cost is $35 per session or insurance

For additional details and to get registered, contact Janelle Mellgren Holm at [email protected]

08/20/2026

As technology becomes a bigger part of everyday life, what helps you feel most connected to other people?

🔹 An in-person conversation
🔹 A phone or video call
🔹 A shared activity
🔹 A thoughtful text or message

There is no single right way to connect. Sometimes the most meaningful step is simply choosing to reach out.

Send a message to learn more

08/18/2026

Please join us in welcoming Corey Renner to the Birch Counseling family tree this month!

Corey brings 16+ years of experience to the team and is looking forward to supporting folks in our Birch community. Get to know more about Corey here:

Cory has over 16 years of experience in the counseling profession and is currently completing the clinical supervision requirements to obtain licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Minnesota. Throughout his career, he has witnessed the remarkable resilience of the individu

08/13/2026

Which sign of anxiety do you think is easiest to overlook?

🔹 Changes in sleep
🔹 Muscle tension or exhaustion
🔹 Stomach discomfort
🔹 Avoiding certain activities

Anxiety is not experienced in only one way. Sometimes the first signs appear in the body or in everyday routines, not in an obvious feeling of panic.

Send a message to learn more

08/11/2026

“Is my anxiety serious enough to talk about?”

It is a question many people ask. Especially when they are still going to work, caring for their families, or keeping up with daily responsibilities.

But the intensity of anxiety is not the only thing that matters. It can also help to notice its impact:

- Is worry affecting your sleep?
- Are you avoiding things that matter to you?
- Is it becoming harder to concentrate, relax, or be present?

You do not have to compare your experience with anyone else’s before seeking understanding or support.

This blog answers common questions about anxiety, including how it may feel, when it may be time to seek help, and what support can look like.

Read more: https://www.birchcounseling.com/blog/2026/6/16/understanding-anxiety-your-questions-answered

Anxiety affects millions of people every day. Understanding it is the first step toward relief and better mental health. Whether you're experiencing occasional worry or more persistent challenges, this guide answers common questions to help you recognize, manage, and seek support for anxiety. Q: W

08/09/2026

A relationship that never asks anything of us can feel safe.

AI companions may listen without interruption, respond with reassurance, and remain available whenever we need them. But human relationships ask us to do something in return: listen, adjust, apologize, forgive, and make room for another person’s needs.

That mutual effort is not always comfortable, but it is part of what makes connection meaningful.

This article considers both the appeal of AI companionship and what we may lose when convenient digital support begins replacing reciprocal human relationships.

Read the full article: https://www.birchcounseling.com/blog/2026/3/15/ai-companions-the-alluring-promise-and-the-hidden-cost-to-real-human-connection

08/07/2026

Have you met Daniel D. Hoyt, Ph.D.?

Daniel joined the Birch Counseling family tree in April, and we are thrilled to have him on the team.

Daniel views his role as a guide to help clients discover their own voice.

Get to know more about Daniel here:

Therapy is an act of courage, and Daniel believes it works best when it feels like a genuine partnership. He views his role as not to handing clients a script for their lives, but to help them discover their own voice within it. Daniel works with adolescents, young adults, adults, and couples nav