About
Led by Emily Mertens (LIMHP, CMFT, PLADC), the practice offers tailored support for individuals, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and life transitions. Their approach to counseling prioritizes safety and empowerment, using trauma-informed therapy approaches that combine cognitive-behavioral strategies, family systems perspectives, and EMDR when appropriate. They also offer online therapy sessions across Nebraska for clients who prefer remote care or live outside Kearney. The team works closely with clients to set goals, monitor progress, and adapt treatment to what works best for their life and schedule. With a focus on practical care, Mertens Counseling addresses both immediate symptoms and long-term well-being, making them a trusted resource for those seeking mental health support in Kearney.
Insurance & payment
Mertens Counseling accepts a range of insurance plans, including BlueCross and BlueShield, Medica, Midlands Choice, Optum, UMR, and UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH. They also offer sliding scale options for qualifying clients.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Medica
- Midlands Choice
- Optum
- UMR
- UnitedHealthcare
Ask about sliding-scale fees if you're paying out of pocket.
Services & specialties
EMDR Therapy
An evidence-based approach that helps clients heal from trauma and find lasting relief.
Trauma Therapy
A therapy approach that prioritizes safety and empowerment, using trauma-informed care to process painful memories and reduce symptom severity.
General Therapy
A counseling service that focuses on symptom reduction as well as skill-building, improving sleep, stress management, communication, and daily routines that support long-term mental health.
Depression Therapy
A therapy approach that integrates evidence-based modalities to treat low mood, loss of interest, and functional impairment, often involving behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring, and trauma-informed care.
Anxiety Therapy
A therapy approach that teaches practical coping strategies, including breathing and grounding, cognitive tools to challenge unhelpful thoughts, and exposure-based planning when appropriate.
Complex Trauma Therapy
A therapy approach that addresses relational patterns, attachment, and the cumulative impact on health and functioning, often involving pacing, skills training, and relational repair strategies.