Emma Lager
Emma is completing her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Catholic Anthropology at the University of Mary. Prior to her graduate studies, Emma earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Benedictine College. She is also certified in Safe Crisis Management and has experience as a case manager, which has made her particularly familiar with the resources available to clients.
Emma practices from an experiential approach, believing that the therapeutic relationship is the source of healing. After all, we are not made to walk through life alone. As humans we were made for community and relationship. She is dedicated to fostering a non-judgmental, authentic, and safe environment for each of her clients. Emma cherishes the idea that every person she encounters has a unique story worth listening to and exploring. Her concentration in Catholic Anthropology enriches her perspective, allowing her to see each individual as inherently dignified and beautiful.
Through the therapeutic relationship, Emma hopes her clients can achieve self-understanding and reconnect with lost parts of themselves. Emma utilizes an eclectic therapeutic approach pulling from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family
Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Narrative Therapy.
While spirituality can sometimes spark contention, Emma embraces the belief that it is an intrinsic part of being human. She warmly invites clients from all walks of spirituality, welcoming any and every question or discussion about spiritual struggles, while also being open to the option of not discussing spirituality at all. As Emma begins her career, she remains open to working with diverse populations. During her graduate studies, she gained valuable experience working with children and adolescents in crisis settings, enhancing her ability to connect with teenagers and young adults. However, she is equally enthusiastic about working with adults. Her special interests span a wide range, including but not limited to relational
trauma, religious trauma, spirituality, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, shame, unwanted sexual behaviors, women’s issues, parenting, premarital counseling, addiction, sexual trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, scrupulosity, loneliness, ADHD, coping skills, mood disorders, personality disorders, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
Outside of her counseling work, Emma delights in visiting cozy coffee shops, thrifting for treasures, immersing herself in books, listening to music, enjoying board games, and restoring vintage furniture. She is always on the lookout for her next exciting adventure!
Emma is currently accepting new clients at a reduced fee and can be reached by phone (913-712-4412 ext 106), email (emma.doorsofhope@gmail.com) or through our contact page on this website.