Denise Rickenbach, MA, LMFT, LADC

Helping You Navigate What Feels Stuck

If you're facing uncertainty, obsessive thought loops, or tension in your closest connections, you're not alone. In therapy with me, we’ll work together to slow things down, make sense of the chaos, and find a path forward that feels grounded, honest, and lasting.

I'm Denise Rickenbach, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC), based in Blaine, Minnesota. I specialize in working with adults who are feeling overwhelmed—stuck in patterns that no longer serve them, whether in their relationships, thoughts, or life direction.

Why Work With Me

With 9 years of experience, I work with adults, couples, and families who are navigating the stress of relationship conflict, obsessive thought patterns, or the uncertainty that comes with major life transitions.

My path to becoming a therapist was shaped by a personal interest in the dynamics of addiction and watching my parents navigate a difficult marriage. I understand how hard it can be to feel stuck—emotionally, relationally, or mentally—and I’m here to help you find movement again.

Clients often describe me as steady, thoughtful, and direct. I offer a space where we can be honest about what’s happening, uncover what’s keeping you stuck, and move toward lasting clarity and strength.

My Approach to Therapy

Therapy with me begins by identifying what’s not working and where you want to go. We’ll start by clarifying your goals and exploring the patterns, habits, or thoughts that may be keeping you stuck. From there, we work together to build insight and develop tools that create lasting change.

I draw from evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to reduce OCD symptoms, Relational Life Therapy (RLT) to shift unhelpful conflict patterns in relationships, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) to challenge distorted thinking and reshape core beliefs. 

My approach is direct, practical, and compassionate—with a focus on helping you grow in how you relate to yourself, others, and the challenges you’re facing.

Common Concerns I Help With

You may be feeling overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, stuck in a relationship dynamic that never seems to change, or unsure how to move forward after a major life shift. These experiences are more common than they seem—and they don’t have to define you.

I support adults working through a range of challenges, including:

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Anxiety and intrusive thoughts

• Depression and emotional overwhelm

• Relationship conflict and communication issues

• Co-dependency and boundary struggles

• Addiction and recovery support

• Grief and unresolved loss

• Uncertainty during major life transitions

Whatever you're carrying, you deserve support that helps you make sense of it and move through it with clarity and strength.

A Bit About Me

Outside of the therapy room, I’m someone who values connection, creativity, and lifelong learning. I’m an avid podcast listener, always curious to deepen my understanding of the human experience. I also love to knit handmade gifts for my loved ones.

When I’m not working, you’ll often find me traveling with my husband or spending time with our five adult children and (soon-to-be) nine grandchildren. Family life is a big part of who I am, and it continually reminds me of the importance of showing up with patience, humor, and care.

Let’s Work Together

Whether you're dealing with OCD, relationship challenges, or a tough life transition, I’m here to walk alongside you.

If you’re ready to begin, I invite you to reach out and schedule a session.