Hi, I’m Tom Hegblom. I earned my master’s degree in Co-Occurring Disorders Counseling from the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School and my doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision from Walden University. My dissertation focused on the self-efficacy of counselors-in-training working with transgender and gender diverse clients, which remains an area that continues to shape much of my passion and advocacy.

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In my counseling work, I focus on creating a space that feels safe, authentic, and grounded in trust. I aim to help clients explore and process some of life’s most vulnerable and complex moments. My experience includes working with substance use and mood disorders, grief and loss, trauma, and identity development. I also specialize in supporting members of the queer community, of which I’m a proud member.

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My approach is collaborative and strengths-based, drawing from cognitive-behavioral and rational-emotive approaches, as well as narrative, feminist, and solution-focused frameworks. When working with substance use, I integrate both Twelve Step and harm reduction perspectives to meet clients where they are. Additionally, I am trained in Brainspotting, a revolutionary approach used to treat many different mental health conditions.

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I currently serve as the Director of Graduate Studies, clinical director, and a resident faculty member for the counselor education programs (Addiction Counseling, Integrated Behavioral Health, Sex Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care Graduate Certificate) at the College of Continuing and Professional Studies at the University of Minnesota. I’m licensed in Minnesota as both a Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) and a board-approved supervisor for both. My teaching and research interests include ethics in counseling, cultural diversity, and building the self-efficacy of future counselors. Outside of teaching, I run a private practice in which I provide counseling and supervision services.

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In my free time, I stay active by cycling and running. My partner and I enjoy exploring the world and staying close to home with our Shepherd/Husky, Max. And since everyone loves a fun fact, I have my private pilot's license!