Hey There
Welcome to Family Connections' web page! I am thrilled to have been providing first-rate psychotherapy services since 2003. My mission is to help you overcome life's challenges and guide you toward a fulfilling journey.
Family Connections defines family as “same or different-sex civil partnerships, married couples with or without children, single-parent families, cohabiting partners, and voluntary social groups. I value your input and ensure that you are an active participant in the therapeutic process. Together, we will work towards specific goals and make positive changes that will alleviate stress and resolve any longstanding issues. You have the freedom to choose the pace of your therapy, including the frequency and duration of the sessions. Let's embark on this journey together!
About Me
My name is Joyce Arendt and I am the founder of Family Connections. I am a firm believer in the power of holistic therapy. I specialize in therapy aimed at reducing the devastating effects of difficult life events, understanding that healing the mind, body, and soul is the most powerful way to overcome life's challenges. I believe that most mental health symptoms and many medical issues originate in these events, rather than being deficits or disorders of the person. I am passionate and committed to helping individuals achieve a deeper connection to themselves and others, drawing upon my wealth of information and experience to guide clients through their unique journey.
My background
I have over twenty years of experience as a counselor with extensive training in play therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I integrate my knowledge with traditional psychotherapies to assist clients with mental health issues. I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Child Psychology and a Master of Social Work Degree.
I am the founder of Family Connections Counseling Center and Zen Village Health and Wellness Center; as well as a co-founder and former President of the Minnesota Association for Play Therapy. I hold certifications as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and a Registered Play Therapist and Supervisor. I provide consultation services and training to therapists seeking licensure. One of my proudest accomplishments is co-authoring the chapter "Control, Corruption, and Destruction, Oh My! The Role of Villains in Experiential Play Therapy" which was featured in the book "Using Superheroes and Villains in Counseling and Play Therapy: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals" (2019).
While play therapy has been a big part of my career, I have traded in my magic wand and dress-up clothes for the proverbial couch and statements such as "How does that make you feel?" Just kidding, I don't say that.
about puccini
Hey there, I'm Puccini (pronounced Pooch-eenie).
I'm a Havanese born on December 21, 2020. I was given my name after Giacomo Puccini, the famous Opera Composer. Joyce had been waiting for me for a long time and finally brought me home on Valentine's Day 2021.
In my new home, there are toys everywhere, and I get to play all the time. I am a lucky doggie because I get to go to work with Joyce, where I receive attention all day long. While I love the attention, I also work hard at helping people feel calm and comfortable. It makes me so happy it gives me the zoomies from time to time.
I don't shed, and they call me a hypoallergenic doggie. But if you're allergic or afraid of little doggies, please let Joyce know so she can take the appropriate measures to ensure your safety.
Woof, woof!
