Rev. Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer

Rev. Peggy Ann "Serena" Hemmer helps people facing stress, anxiety, relationship strain, trauma, depression, parenting challenges, and major life changes. She combines practical tools and reflective conversation to help people find steadier ground. Serena is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and she brings 21 years of practice to each session.

Serena uses approaches that consider how thoughts, emotions, and close relationships shape day-to-day life. She draws on Attachment-Based ideas to look at how early bonds affect current connections. She also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to identify patterns of thinking that keep problems going. Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills are added when emotion regulation and coping strategies are needed.

Her background includes work in county and state mental health and substance abuse services, residential treatment for youth, and private practice. She has also led workshops for health and aging conferences and written for public audiences. This variety gives her a wide view of common struggles and ways to adapt.

When working with young people, Serena often weaves expressive arts and play into sessions. She has experience creating an Expressive Arts Clinical Program for a residential center. She also integrates spiritual life coaching for clients who wish to explore values and meaning.

Serena trained in Rational Hypnotherapy and holds certifications related to couple work and spiritual coaching. She aims to help people notice their strengths and take small steps toward change in daily life.

How therapy approaches translate to online work

Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how early bonds shape current relationships and helps people notice and change recurring patterns in close connections. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and testing new behaviors to reduce distress and improve daily functioning. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills to manage strong feelings and conflicts.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with each person to choose methods that match their needs, goals, and preferences. This means trying practical skills, checking what helps, and adjusting the plan together as progress is made.

Confirm available session formats before booking, as formats are not specified here. Online therapy can make fitting sessions into a busy life easier by reducing travel time and allowing appointments during breaks or evenings. It also supports continuity of care when schedules or locations change, and many people find it convenient for regular skill practice and short check-ins between in-person visits.