Jenna Bauer, MA, PLPC

Kids | Teens | Adults | Identity | Grief | Life Transitions | Pregnancy Loss | Addiction

As a child, I was endlessly curious about other people’s stories. I’d listen for long stretches, completely transported into their worlds, feeling like we were traveling together. Even when their stories were difficult and emotions ran high, something in me came alive in a way my own stories never quite did. 

I grew up in a home that felt emotionally flat, where my needs left me to be afraid of being too much, not enough, or simply too different. I shrank and became invisible. I began tending to the emotional needs of others while slowly abandoning myself. I performed well on the outside but increasingly lost a sense of where my family ended and I began.

In contrast, from the age of 9 on, I lived for the two weeks each summer I spent with my Nana. She was a welcoming and safe presence -extraordinarily lively and optimistic. She nurtured my playful and creative parts, whether at the community pool or in her garden. With her I felt the warmth of connection and discovered that my thoughts and feelings mattered. I felt seen, valued, and safe.

Years later, a serious of major life transitions led me to counseling, where my therapist held my grief and shattered dreams with genuine tenderness. There it was safe to be honest, and change began. Experiencing the healing power of being deeply seen and compassionately witnessed continues to shape the way I work with clients.

As a therapist, I believe that healing unfolds in connection. I aim to provide a safe, compassionate presence where you can explore the parts of yourself that are ready to emerge into the light and be met with curiosity and care. You’re welcome here, exactly as you are. 

Who I Work With

While I work with clients seven and older with a variety of concerns, I enjoy supporting those seeking greater:

• nervous system regulation, 
• emotional awareness, 
• secure attachment, 
• healthy boundaries, 
• identity development,
• healing from loss/grief.

I use an integrative approach of evidence-based theories and techniques drawing from Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Logotherapy, Teyber’s Interpersonal Process approach, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Somatic Work/. 

Clients include those who want support as they navigate:

• ADHD
• Trauma
• Anxiety
• Loss / Grief
• Life Transitions 
• Addiction Recovery
• Parental Alienation / Estrangement
• Relationships / Recovery from Narcissistic Abuse

Education and Experience

• B.A in Recreation and Leisure Studies. California State University, Long Beach
• Certification in Multiple Subject Instruction, California State University, Long Beach
• M.A. in Counseling, Covenant Theological Seminary
• Harris House Treatment and Recovery Center, St. Charles. MO – Counseling Internship
• Board Certified Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC)