Pause & Connect
Making Mental Health Therapy Accessible for Minnesota Students
Our student therapy program
(aka. Pause & Connect) at MindBalance Mental Health offers low-cost, high quality therapy for post-secondary students and recent graduates of post-secondary programs.
We know that being in school (or navigating life after graduation) can come with a unique mix of stress, transitions, and growth.
MindBalance wants to support you!
We welcome students with a wide range of experiences and identities and offer collaborative and culturally-response care.
01
$25 per session with a trained intern therapist
03
Supervised and supported by a licensed mental health therapist
02
Flexible scheduling with in-person or telehealth options
04
Collaborative, affirming, and culturally responsive care
Our Approach
We are dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for students navigating the challenges of academic life and beyond.
Our student-focused therapy offers a compassionate and culturally responsive approach to address the unique stressors faced by post-secondary students and recent graduates from post-secondary programs.
Our goal is to support you in building a strong sense of self, improving emotional well-being, and developing skills to navigate personal and academic challenges.
Our intern therapists are responsive to your intersectional identities affecting your experience, and we aim to provide affirming care that respects your identity, lived experiences, and goals.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or simply in need of a space to be seen and heard, we're here to support you.

Eligibility Requirements
Student or Recent Graduate
Currently enrolled in or recently completed a post secondary program (2 or 4 year college, graduate/professional program, vocational or technical college/program)
Minnesota Resident
Must live in Minnesota
Insurance
Cannot have insurance of any kind or through the following providers: Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) of MN, BCBS PPO Plan, Health partners, Cigna, Medicare, or Medicaid Fee for Service
Willing to Work with Intern Therapist
Open to working with a master's-level intern therapist who will be closely supervised by a licensed therapist
Program Process
1
Schedule an Initial Consultation
Use the Book Consultation button below to schedule a 15 to 20 free minute initial consultation where we will review your goals, discuss your eligibility, and answer any questions you have.
3
Get Matched
If there's an opening, and you meet the eligibility requirements, we'll match you with an intern therapists and schedule your first intake session.
2
Initial Consultation Prep
Make sure you have details about your current insurance, information about your school and program, and any questions prepped before your consultation.
4
Start Therapy
Before your first session, you'll complete several required forms in our secure portal. From there, you'll begin your therapy journey with your intern therapist.
-
What is adoption competent therapy, and how is it different from regular therapy?Adoption competent therapy is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on the unique experiences and challenges of adoptees. It differs from regular therapy by specifically addressing issues related to identity, attachment, loss, and the complexities of adoption. It centers the experiences of adoptees. Our therapists are trained to understand these specific dynamics, providing a safe and supportive space to explore and navigate the emotional and psychological aspects of being an adoptee.
-
How can adoption competent therapy help me if I'm a transracial adoptee?Transracial adoptees often face unique challenges related to cultural and racial identity. Adoption competent therapy can help you explore and understand your cultural background and racial identity, navigate any feelings of disconnection, and address experiences of racism and discrimination. Our therapists provide culturally responsive and affirming support to help you integrate these aspects into a cohesive sense of self, fostering confidence and self-acceptance.
-
What issues can adoption competent therapy address?Adoption competent therapy can address a wide range of issues, including: Identity exploration and integration: Understanding who you are as an adoptee and how adoption has shaped your identity. Grief and loss: Processing feelings of loss related to birth families, culture, or aspects of self. Attachment and relationship challenges: Navigating relationships with adoptive families, birth families, and others. Trauma and past experiences: Understanding and healing from any trauma related to adoption experiences. Social justice and systemic issues: Addressing the impact of systemic discrimination, such as racism on your mental health and well-being.