A Psychotherapy Clinic Rooted With Empathy

Our mission is to empower every individual we serve, cultivating resiliency and fostering hope as they navigate their path towards healing.

The Story of Connie Toavs

Founder of Cultivate Empowered Healing

Connie takes pride in where she came from. Connie's story is rooted in her agricultural heritage, growing up on a farm where she learned the values of hard work and connection to the land. Inspired by her father's farming legacy and her mother's role as a healthcare worker, she developed a passion for empathetic caregiving and meaningful connections.

With a Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Gerontology, and a Master's in Social Work, Connie dedicated herself to a career in helping others. Beyond her professional achievements, she finds fulfillment in her bustling family life, in which she has a husband and two children, dogs, cats, and chickens. Together, they embrace the family farming lifestyle, tending to the land, gardening, canning and cherishing the great outdoors through camping and fishing. Connie likes to sew, craft and spend time with family and friends.  She considers herself an old soul and it makes her heart happy to build meaningful connections with others.

In October 2023, Connie founded Cultivate Empowered Healing. In her practice, Connie provides a safe space for clients dealing with various challenges, including PTSD and betrayal trauma, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and more.  Connie primarily treats adults, but has vast experiences working with adolescents, as well. With a focus on empowering clients on their healing journeys, she guides them with empathy and understanding, fostering meaningful connections and personal growth. It’s vulnerable and courageous to start this journey. Join Connie on the path to empowerment and self-discovery.

Connie’s Licenses

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), The State of Wisconsin, June 2024.

  • Licensed Supervisor of Social Work (LSSW), Minnesota Board of Social Work, June 2020.

  • Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), Minnesota Board of Social Work, June 2018.

Connie’s Certifications

  • Certified Partner and Trauma Therapist (CPTT), International Institute for Trauma Addiction Professionals (IITAP), July 2024.

  • Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), International Institute for Trauma Addiction Professionals (IITAP), January 2023.

  • Advanced Training for Problematic Sexual Behaviors (ATPSB), The Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health (SASH), October 2018.

Professional Roots

Nurturing Compassionate Connections and Experiences

From 2011 to 2014, Connie immersed herself in the diverse world of group homes, supporting individuals ranging from 18 to 75 years old. In January 2013, she dedicated her time to an impactful part-time internship with the Alzheimer's Association, honing her skills in client and family support.

Continuing her journey, Connie embarked on a graduate internship from January 2014 to May 2014 with Allina Health Hospital's In-Reach Program. Here, she orchestrated vital services for high-frequency healthcare users, addressing their primary care, mental health, chemical health, housing, and employment needs.

Between April 2014 and May 2015, Connie served as a Mental Health Practitioner, offering ARMHS and CTSS. During this period, she conducted her clinical internship and was a Clinical Trainee, providing psychotherapy services to children, adults, and older adults in various settings ranging from in-home to outpatient and community-based. 

After earning her Masters of Social Work, Connie explored diverse roles, including 17 months of in-home psychotherapy services and over two years as a hospice social worker. In this deeply meaningful role, she supported individuals in hospice, listening to their stories, offering resources, aiding with end-of-life planning, and providing grief support.

In the summer of 2018, Connie joined an outpatient clinic, dedicating over five years to offering psychotherapy services. Her expertise blossomed, focusing on areas such as sex addiction, betrayal trauma therapies, and neurofeedback, while continuing to provide comprehensive mental health support. Connie's journey is a testament to her dedication to compassionate care and unwavering support for those in need.