About Me
Emily Manaen, LICSW, MA
I truly love being a therapist. I enjoy getting to know my clients and watching them grow. My clients describe me as compassionate, warm, calm, kind, and an easy-laugher.
I have been working as a therapist since 2014 and in non-profit/ social service settings since 2010. My path to this work was winding. I initially studied International Peace Studies, because I am interested in helping people recover from traumatic experiences of war and conflict. Later, I received clinical training in social work, and began my practice as a therapist in Chicago. I have previously worked as a therapist and consultant for the Center for Victims of Torture, along with my work here at Haven.
Through my studies and life experience, I understand that humans often struggle because of inequities in our environment. Racism, gender discrimination, and other forms of oppression affect our mental health. We do not live in a vacuum. We are deeply impacted by the injustice in the world. I am committed to anti-racist and anti-oppressive practice in my work. I believe that therapy is an opportunity to recenter the narratives of BIPOC individuals and community and to challenge the narratives that have predominantly benefited identities of privilege.
One of the things that led me to this work is that I am deeply curious about people. I love getting to know my clients’ stories, understanding what has caused them pain, and helping them recover from the trauma they have experienced. I pay close attention to my clients’ strengths and resiliencies. My clients find that I am an active, engaged, and collaborative therapist.
On a personal note, I enjoy reading, being in nature, good music, and spending time with my family and dear friends. I lived in Chicago, IL for almost 10 years, and it holds a special place in my heart, but Minneapolis is home for me. I have also traveled and lived in East Africa, and I love to explore the world. I am a parent and also a partner. Most weekends you will find me spending time with my family, out in nature, or cuddled up with a book.
If you’re looking for a Minnesota therapist, please do not hesitate to contact me.