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Practicum Student
Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Student-Athletes, Life Transitions, Confidence & Self-Esteem, Body Image, Anxiety, Mental Performance
B.A. in Psychology and Biblical Studies — University of Northwestern, St. Paul
M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services — St. Mary’s University, Minneapolis (expected graduation May 2027)
Emma is currently completing her clinical practicum as part of her M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services at St. Mary’s University. She provides counseling and performance coaching under the supervision of Alexandra Wulbecker-Smith, MA, LPCC, and Dr. Ben Merkling, Psy.D., LP, CMPC, while completing her clinical training hours.
Prior to beginning her clinical practicum, Emma gained experience working with youth as a counselor at her church. In this role, she supported students as they navigated life stressors, academic pressures, relationships, and the unique challenges that can come with being a student-athlete.
Emma also brings personal experience as a former Division III lacrosse player. Her experience as a collegiate athlete has given her firsthand insight into the challenges of balancing athletics, academics, relationships, and personal well-being. She understands the pressures that can come with performance, competition, identity, and transitions both within and beyond sport.
Emma is passionate about supporting athletes in developing both their mental health and mental performance so they can grow in their sport and in their everyday lives. She is particularly interested in working with high school and collegiate athletes as they navigate challenges such as confidence, anxiety, life transitions, body image, self-esteem, and motivation.
Emma strives to create a counseling environment that feels collaborative, comfortable, and approachable. With a client-centered perspective, she believes that each person brings unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths to the counseling process. She hopes to work alongside clients to better understand their experiences, identify their strengths, and develop tools that support meaningful and lasting change.
Emma graduated with her B.A. in Psychology and Biblical Studies from the University of Northwestern, St. Paul. She played four years of Division III lacrosse and, during her senior year, helped support younger teammates as the university navigated the discontinuation of the women’s lacrosse program.
Emma has been involved in athletics throughout her life, including playing hockey for the River Lakes Stars during high school and participating in summer lacrosse leagues. Athletics continues to be an important part of her life, and she enjoys playing in women’s lacrosse leagues during the summer.
Outside of counseling, Emma enjoys spending time with friends and family, watching sports, hiking and camping, skating, and going to the gym.
