Heartland Psychological Service

Heartland Psychological Services is a beacon of hope and healing in southeastern South Dakota. Founded in 1991 by Dr. Joe Blackinton, our non-profit agency has dedicated itself to providing compassionate, evidence-based outpatient therapy to individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. With a steadfast commitment to ethical and culturally sensitive care, we strive to empower individuals to navigate life's challenges and unlock their full potential.

*Our Mission*

At Heartland Psychological Services, our mission is deeply rooted in compassion and a belief in the inherent strength within each individual. We aim to alleviate suffering, restore hope, and guide individuals towards reaching their fullest potential. We do this by fostering an environment of encouragement, respect, and unwavering support, where every person feels seen, heard, and valued.

The Services We Offer

We recognize that the journey towards mental wellness is unique for everyone, and therefore we offer a comprehensive array of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Our team of highly qualified therapists, each possessing specialized knowledge and experience, provides individual, couples, and group therapy.

• Individual Therapy:

This offers a personalized and confidential space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, work through personal challenges, and develop coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life difficulties.

• Couples Therapy:

Relationships are complex and require nurturing. Couples therapy provides a safe and supportive environment for partners to improve communication, resolve conflicts, rekindle intimacy, and strengthen their bond.

• Group Therapy:

Group therapy provides a unique opportunity for individuals to connect with others who share similar challenges, learn from shared experiences, gain support, and develop new perspectives.

• Children and Adolescent Therapy:

Our therapists specialize in working with children and adolescents, providing a play-based and developmentally appropriate approach to address emotional, behavioral, and social challenges that often arise during these crucial stages of life.

We understand that accessing mental health services can be a significant step, and we are dedicated to providing a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental atmosphere where individuals feel comfortable seeking support and embarking on their healing journey.

Our Highly Qualified Team of Therapists

The backbone of Heartland Psychological Services is our team of dedicated and compassionate therapists. Each member is professionally trained and licensed at both state and national levels, ensuring the highest quality of care for our clients.

*Danelle Pennock, PsyD -- Director

Guided by her vast experience and profound dedication, Dr. Pennock leads Heartland Psychological Services with a vision of providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health care to our community. She utilizes a collaborative and supportive approach, tailoring therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual.

*Mary Sternhagen, LPC-MH -- Experienced Therapist

Mary brings her expertise in working with diverse populations, particularly veterans and their families, to Heartland. Her clients benefit from her empathic warmth and her deep understanding of the challenges faced by these individuals and families.

*Tonja Koenigs, LCSW-PIP -- Providing Strength and Guidance

Tonja is a dedicated social worker with a proven track record of supporting individuals across the lifespan. Her commitment to creating a safe and empowering environment allows her clients to explore their concerns, develop resilience, and build a brighter future.

*Mikaela Campbell, LPC-MH -- Embracing Holistic Support

Mikaela's passion for supporting individuals and couples navigating complex emotional issues is evident in her compassionate approach. Her commitment to ethical and culturally sensitive care ensures that clients feel safe and understood as they embark on their journey toward healing.

*Sherry Gaskins, MA, LCSW-PIP -- A Focus on Resiliency

Sherry brings a research-informed perspective to therapy, integrating her clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the factors that contribute to resilience. Her work with individuals and families focuses on empowering them to navigate challenges and build a strong foundation for well-being.

Our team is committed to providing the highest quality of care, utilizing evidence-based practices and staying abreast of the latest developments in the field of mental health. We believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate and effective therapy, and we are dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of our clients.