Matt Watnemo, MA, LPCC

Lino Lakes

*Independent Contractor

Every person has a unique story, set of strengths, and challenges which shape who they are. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege to walk alongside adults, couples, families, college students, teens, and pre-teens through seasons of growth and change in various capacities. My diverse background — including teaching, coaching, playing basketball overseas, leadership roles, and counseling — has shaped my understanding of people and the importance of connection in healing.
I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bethel University and am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minnesota. My undergraduate degree was in Social Studies Education from University of Northwestern-St. Paul along with a minor in Bible. My counseling approach is rooted in clinical mental health training/experience and a Christian worldview, offering space to explore faith and psychological wellbeing together when desired. At the heart of my work is a commitment to helping people feel seen, heard, and valued. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship marked by empathy, compassion, and authenticity — a safe place to process life’s challenges and move toward clarity, confidence, and hope. My primary clinical approaches include attachment-based, emotion-focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). For couples and families, my work is informed by attachment theory and research-based models such as the Gottman Method. Since there is no “one size fits all” approach, I use these foundations while tailoring my approach to each unique person and relationship context.
My areas of interest and experience include (but not limited to):
Christian faith and clinical mental health integration

Marriage and Family issues (Communication, conflict, connection, managing relationship stress)

Anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive issues

Navigating career transitions, life changes, and cultural adjustments

Mental health and performance for athletes

Family of origin and relationship struggles

Grief and loss

Trauma

Distress tolerance and emotional regulation

Men’s issues (confidence, purpose, anger, pornography)

Neurodiversity, such as ADHD and autism

Communication and relationship challenges
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and kids, connecting with friends/family/church community, being active, traveling, playing sports, reading, and most things outdoors.
Clients often describe my style as calm, collaborative, and focused on both insight and practical tools for real-life change. Life brings mountain peaks of joy, valleys of pain, and everything in between. Wherever you find yourself, it would be my honor to meet you where you are and walk with you toward a purpose-driven, connected, and hope-filled future.
“All of us, at some time or other, need help… each one of us is a giver and a receiver.”
“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable.”
— Fred Rogers