Find the therapist that best suits your needs.
Our team
Kaitlin Rooney LMFT-S
E-mail: kaitlin@portsidecounseling.com
Call or Text (320)317-7945
Real Talk, Real Results: for Veterans, for Everyone.
Hi, I'm Kaitlin, and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Board Approved Supervisor for the State of Minnesota.
I work with individuals, couples, and families untangle the knots that life, love, and relationships sometimes tie us into. Whether you're navigating big changes, tough conversations, or just feeling stuck, my role is to support you in creating more connection, clarity, and peace—without judgment and definitely without awkward therapist clichés (no, I won’t just nod and ask, “How does that make you feel?”—unless it really helps!).
Therapy is a space where we can be real, laugh a little, maybe cry a little, and most importantly—do meaningful work together. My style is collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in practical tools that fit your unique life.
As a Navy Veteran, I’m especially committed to serving Veterans, Active Duty Service Members, and First Responders—including police officers, firefighters, and EMTs. I understand that in these roles, the weight you carry often isn’t just physical—it's emotional, relational, and sometimes invisible to others. Therapy with me is a space to unpack that weight safely, without judgment, and at your own pace. I bring not just clinical experience, but real-world understanding of what it means to serve—and the impact that can have on your mental and emotional health.
We’ll work together to make sense of your experiences, build tools that work for your life, and yes—maybe even find a little humor in the process. (Therapy doesn’t have to be all serious, all the time.) I’m glad you’re here, and if you’re considering working together, I’d love to connect.
I specialize in Trauma and am Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.R.T.) trained.
Fun Facts about me:
1- My face doesn’t hide anything. If I’m surprised, confused, or amused—you’ll know. No poker face here. (Therapy with me comes with full facial transparency.)
2- I’m a pretty straightforward therapist. I’ll always be honest with you—even when it’s the hard stuff—but I’ll say it with care, compassion, and maybe a little humor when it helps.
3- I base my travel plans entirely on the presence of big bodies of water. Mountains are great, but if there’s no water nearby, I’m probably not going.
4- I’m a Minnesota transplant who grew up between the U.P. and the East Coast, so I’m well-versed in both snow and ocean breeze.
Amanda Kaping LICSW
E-mail: amanda@portsidecounseling.com
Call or Text (320)377-3924
Hi, I’m Amanda Kaping, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), and I’m passionate about helping people navigate life’s ups and downs with honesty, support, and compassion.
I believe therapy should feel like a safe, welcoming space where you can show up exactly as you are—no judgment, just real conversations and meaningful support. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship struggles, past trauma, or simply feeling stuck, I’m here to help you explore what’s going on and work toward the changes you want to see.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in mindfulness, self-compassion, and a strengths-based perspective. I tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals, and we go at a pace that feels right for you.
One of my greatest strengths as a therapist is balancing encouragement with gentle challenge. I love celebrating the small wins, big breakthroughs, and everything in between, while also helping you stretch beyond what feels comfortable in a supportive and meaningful way. I’m here to remind you of your strengths, help you reconnect with your confidence, and walk alongside you every step of the way.
With experience across a variety of settings—from community mental health to private practice—I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals from all walks of life. At the heart of my work is a deep respect for each person’s story and a belief in your capacity to grow, heal, and thrive.
If you're considering therapy, I’d be honored to connect and see if we might be a good fit.
Fun Facts about me:
1- I’m naturally a “hype person”—I love encouraging others and celebrating progress, no matter how big or small.
2- Staying active is important to me, and I enjoy being part of local sports and community activities.
3- I appreciate a good metaphor—it’s one of my favorite ways to make sense of life’s challenges.
4- Traveling is one of my favorite ways to reset, especially anywhere warm and sunny.
5- I’m a big believer in the importance of family, connection, and finding joy in everyday moments.
Melissa Sutlief LICSW-S
E-mail: melissa@portsidecounseling.com
Call or Text (320) 344-3030
Hi, I’m Melissa, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and a MN Board Approved Supervisor. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find meaningful healing. I strive to provide compassionate, individualized care by meeting clients where they are and working collaboratively toward their goals.
I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), an evidence-based approach that helps clients process distressing experiences and reduce the emotional impact of trauma, anxiety, and other life challenges. My therapeutic style is eclectic, drawing from a variety of evidence-based approaches to best meet each client's unique needs and strengths.
Before becoming a therapist, I spent more than 30 years working with children and teens in a school setting. This experience has given me a deep understanding of child development, family dynamics, and the challenges that children, adolescents, and families often face. I value creating a safe, supportive environment where clients of all ages feel heard, respected, and empowered.
Outside of the therapy office, I enjoy spending time outdoors, especially kayaking and connecting with nature. I believe that healing can happen in many ways, and I encourage clients to discover the strengths and resources that support their own well-being.
Whether you're working through a difficult season, healing from past experiences, or seeking personal growth, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey toward hope and healing.
Fun Facts about me:
1- River adventures are my happy place. If there’s a kayak and a river nearby, count me in!
2- Music speaks my language. My playlist is often a pretty accurate reflection of my mood—so listen carefully!
3- Family is everything. They’re my favorite people, biggest supporters, and source of some of my best memories.
4- I love to create. Crocheting, painting, crafting, and DIY projects are my happy distractions. I’m always up for trying something new even if I end up with a few unfinished projects along the way!
Travis Wendorff
Email: travis@portsidecounseling.com
Call or Text (320)317-7945
Hi, I’m Travis, and I’m currently an intern pursuing my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Before entering the therapy field, I spent several years in law enforcement, where I learned the importance of empathy, resilience, and supporting people through some of life’s most difficult moments. Those experiences continue to shape my approach as a therapist, helping me connect with clients in a genuine, compassionate, and understanding way.
I strive to create a welcoming, judgment-free environment where clients feel comfortable being themselves. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, stress, or simply feeling stuck, my goal is to work alongside you as we identify strengths, build practical tools, and create meaningful change.
I also believe that healing doesn’t always have to be serious. While therapy often involves working through difficult emotions and experiences, humor and laughter can be powerful parts of the healing process. Sometimes a well-timed laugh can offer perspective, build connection, and remind us that there is still room for hope even during life’s toughest seasons.
Therapy with me is a place where we can do meaningful work together while still allowing space for authenticity, growth, and a little humor along the way. Seeking support takes courage, and I’m honored to be part of that journey. I look forward to helping you navigate life’s challenges, discover your strengths, and move toward the goals that matter most to you.
Fun Facts About Me:
1- There’s a good chance you’ll find a coffee or energy drink within arm’s reach. Caffeine and I have built a strong and lasting partnership over the years.
2- I’m happiest near the ocean. Whether it’s sitting on the beach, listening to the waves, or exploring a new coastal town, being near the water helps me recharge.
3- Movie quotes and TV one-liners are part of my everyday vocabulary. If a well-timed quote fits the moment, there’s a good chance I’m going to use it.
4- If there’s live music involved, count me in. I’ll happily spend hours at a concert, singing along to songs I know and confidently attempting the ones I don’t.
5- My favorite role is being a husband and dad. My wife and our four boys keep life busy and fun as we bounce between hockey rinks, basketball courts, football fields, and family adventures.
