Karolyn Shelstad-Otto

   Karolyn  has been working with children and their families for over 23 years as a middle school math and science teacher.  She has received her Bachelors of Arts in Communications from Gustavus Adolphus, her Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Education from St. Cloud State University, Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Concordia of St. Paul, and her Master of Science in Counseling and Psychological Services from St. Mary’s University.  Her therapy partner, Tagg, is certified with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.     

  Karolyn and Tagg have volunteered at schools, libraries, and the MSP Airport through the Animal Ambassador Program.  Tagg’s favorite things are chasing chipmunks, hiking, camping on the North Shore of Lake Superior, and playing with his brother and sister huskies.  Tagg’s role in a therapy session is to provide a positive calming environment or an energetic and playful experience, all depending on the client's current needs.  Tagg loves treats and will show you some fun tricks if you ask!  

  Karolyn’s focus in therapy is on experiential play and animal assisted therapy with her Siberian Husky, Tagg.  She also has training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.  Through challenging and frustrating experiences, she believes we can build skills and thinking patterns to cope with past difficulties and current obstacles as we work toward becoming the best version of ourselves.  Her favorite places are outdoors:  on the lake, in the woods, or at the beach - during every season.  Karolyn uses nature's wide-open spaces as part of the therapeutic process and believes playing is fun, no matter your age!