Meet our Burnsville Office

Deb Kunze, MA, Counselor

I love working with children, teens, and families to help you improve your relationships and stop feeling stuck in negative patterns. As a mom of two children with ASD, I have a special passion for working with parents of special needs children to find solutions and new ways of doing life that help your family to reconnect and thrive.

I also work with individuals and know that it is not uncommon to have seasons in our lives where we can’t seem to shut our brain off; the couple who continues to have the same argument, the teen who only hears the negatives or the parents of a special needs child who can’t stop the ‘what if” tape in their mind. We all do it, but sometimes it helps to express those thoughts in a safe place.

Sometimes the answer is less about controlling thoughts, and more about accepting them but changing the story. I am here to listen to you, to engage with you, and to challenge you to cut through life’s noise. “I will even make a road in the wilderness.” Isaiah 43:19 I would be honored to help you walk through your struggles and find renewed hope.

ADHD
Anxiety & Depression
Chronic Illness/Pain
Divorce & Relationship Issues
Parents of Children with Special Needs/ ASD
Faith Struggles/ Christian Integration
Menopause & Life Transitions
Self Esteem & Identity
Social Anxiety

Adults

Heidi Pexa, MA, Counselor

No story is too big or too small, and together we can work through any bump in the road. I believe reaching out for support is a courageous first step toward healing and growth. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering a safe and empathetic space where your story is honored and your resilience can shine through.

I completed my master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adler University and provide counseling under the supervision of Beth McDonald. I am committed to a holistic, client-centered approach, considering your unique worldview and life context as we work together in the counseling process. As a parent of an adult child, I have firsthand experience with the joys and struggles that come with parenting, marriage, and navigating major life transitions. I also know what it’s like to be the one seeking support, and I deeply appreciate the courage it takes to share your story. My approach is practical and insight-oriented, and I strive to help individuals and families see their situations in new ways so they can move forward.

Drawing from my own experiences, I would love to work with those who are facing relationship
difficulties, recovering from narcissistic or emotional abuse, navigating parenting
challenges, or struggling with boundaries. My goal is to provide a supportive
environment where you can explore your concerns and discover practical steps toward
healing and growth. For those who request it, I would welcome incorporating the Christian faith and spirituality into our counseling sessions.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may
overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” –Romans 15:13

Vanessa Cox, MA, Counselor

Some experiences in life can be immobilizing, leaving us feeling stuck, isolated, or unsure of how to move forward. We’re not meant to carry these things alone. I’m committed to walking with you as you sort through what’s been happening and to work with you in a space where you can feel safe, seen, and supported—especially during life’s most overwhelming seasons.

As someone who has raised two grown children and walked through many of life’s complexities, I bring both life experience and professional training into each session. I also believe each client brings a unique story that I will receive with warmth, empathy and deep respect.

I see clients who are experiencing grief and loss, ADHD, narcissistic abuse, financial conflict in their relationships, and those who are grappling with the painful realities of parental alienation. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, tailoring sessions to fit what will be most helpful and meaningful to you. Whether the goal is clarity, healing, or growth, our process will be collaborative and paced according to your needs.

For those who request it, I can also incorporate a Christian perspective as part of the work we do together. Either way, I’m committed to making our time together a place where you feel understood, encouraged, and empowered to move forward with strength and hope.

Anger Management
Anxiety & Depression
ADHD & Learning Challenges
Divorce & Blended Families
Faith Struggles/ Christian Integration
Grief & Loss
Recovery from Toxic Relationships
Self Esteem & Identity
Social Anxiety
Stress & Life Transitions
Trauma

Children, Teens, Adults, & Families