When it comes to finding a therapist, Madison, WI seems like a place with options. With such a health-conscious community, there should be therapists available everywhere. However, when seeking therapy, finding the right therapist to meet your needs isn’t always easy…even in a big city with a focus on health. There are a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, and which one works best for you can depend on your challenge as well as your own personal preferences. The type of therapy you need may not necessarily be available nearby. 

With online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp, finding the right therapist can be as simple as filling out an online questionnaire. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 mental health care professionals with a variety of specializations, assisting adults dealing with everything from family conflict to past trauma or chronic pain. After filling out a questionnaire, you will be matched with a therapist who meets your individual needs. And because therapeutic alliance is an important factor in client success, if for any reason you don’t feel comfortable with your therapist you can switch for no additional cost. 

Online therapy is also a convenient option for busy parents, professionals, and college students. Sessions can easily fit into any schedule, and video chat, phone, and text messaging options allow you to talk to your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. 

Therapy can be an important part of treatment for many forms of mental illness, but it can also be a way to boost overall wellness for almost anyone. Therapists have been assisting clients meet and manage life’s challenges and promoting positive values for many decades. So, whether you’re looking for a solution focused approach to workplace stress, looking for guidance for women’s issues, or simply seeking personal growth, contact BetterHelp to get started on your wellness journey. 

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Susan O'Connell

Offering therapy in WI
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
35 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Wisconsin. I began my career in the area of addictions, working both with the patient and families of people with substance abuse problems. I have since expanded on that area and have extensive experience working with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, chronic medical issues, caregiver and compassion fatigue, I try to meet each person that I work with where they are at and help them discover their strengths and develop plans to assist with the changes they would like to make. It takes alot to reach out for help, and I want to make sure that I honor that and help people feel that they are not alone in their struggles. Since I have been in the field for a long time, I have been trained in a multitude of treatment approaches but I have committed to staying current in the new ideas that are being used. I currently rely heavily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Acceptance and Committment Therapy. I incorporate education and homework to augment the time that we spend together. I also feel strongly that I need to practice what I preach and work on maintaining a healthy lifestyle myself. At this point, I am working primarily Wednesday through Friday 9 to 5, and 8 to 2 on Saturdays. If you need evening appointments, please look for a therapist with that availability.

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Rebekah Wolff

Offering therapy in WI
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I'm so proud of you for getting this far in taking this step towards your mental wellness. I'm so excited to meet you! I want to know your story and what brought you to this point. I'm Rebekah, a multicultural therapist who utilizes different modalities, to help you reach your goals. I'm here to support you through messages, journal entries, live chat, and audio sessions. In addition, I love to send resources such as supporting articles, worksheets, potential books/audio books, podcasts, youtube links etc. I'm in Wisconsin (CST time zone) and have clients around the world. I help with everything from depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationships issues/dating/marriage, communications issues, attachment styles, family issues, self-esteem, life purpose, etc. utilizing CBT & DBT methods. I thrive in providing a caring and supportive environment for sessions regardless of background. I'm so excited to work with you! Feel free to send a message so I can get to know you. I look forward to hearing from you soon! Fun fact about me...I'm a Stage 3 Breast Cancer Survivor now going on 14 years in 2024! I wrote a book about cancer for children in honor of my daughter ( she was my support) when she was very young! I give motivational speeches about mental health and share my cancer story to local cancer support groups, charities, hospitals, colleges, womens' groups, etc in my local community.

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Lori Locke

Offering therapy in WI
License: MA,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Wisconsin with over 10 years of experience working with dual diagnosis clients (AODA and Mental Health Disorders). I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and anger management. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma and/or emotional abuse. I am a strength-based counselor who can help you identify your personal positive qualities to focus on building a life worth living. I believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity. I embody an approach that emphasizes compassion and self-care, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines CBT/DBT, trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I look forward to working with you!

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Jennifer Walker

Offering therapy in WI
License: LPC,CSAC
Addictions
9 years of experience

Welcome! It takes courage to reach out for help, so you've already taken a huge step toward healing. If you are having trouble moving on from the past, worrying about the future, struggling with intrusive thoughts, difficult emotions, unhealthy behaviors or just need a listening ear; I am here for you. I have extensive experience working with adolescence and adults. As a dual credentialed provider, I can help you work on a wide variety of issues interfering with living your best life. M​y approach is empathetic, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I look forward to beginning our work tog​ether. I am dual credentialed as a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and clinical substance abuse counselor (CSAC) in the state of Wisconsin. I am a proud graduate of the Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling program at the Viterbo University. I also have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Substance Abuse Counseling from Viterbo.​ I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I also have comprehensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

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Angela Hernandez

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseBipolar disorder
15 years of experience

My priority is you, and what you need to feel successful in your life. I value providing a person-centered approach to meet the needs of each client, working in partnership with them to set objectives and goals of their choosing. I bring 14 years of experience providing individual, couple, family and group therapy. Utilizing a systemic approach, I treat a variety of life’s stressors and adjustments due to trauma exposure/PTSD, depression, mood fluctuations, anxiety, LGBTQ+ and cultural specific experiences. My area of specialty is broad and currently includes services for clients age 16 and above. I have experience working with diverse populations including various religious, LGBTQ+, Veterans, Stage of life specific, BIPOC culture specific, Domestic Violence, Dual Diagnosis, AODA, Personality Disorder, and Dissociative Disorder. My therapeutic practice utilizes a variety of intervention styles and approaches such as: Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma and eco mapping, Experiential and art therapy, Solution-Focused therapy, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Family Systems Therapy, and Object Relations Theory. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I strive to provide a safe, supportive environment, aimed at helping clients heal from their past, navigate their present life and set healthy goals for the future.

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Danielle Osborne

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

My name is Danielle, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Wisconsin. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, poor self-esteem and suicidal thinking. I believe that clients need a safe place and a positive rapport with their therapist for growth to occur. I am passionate about helping clients learn how to set boundaries and emotionally take care of themselves. The therapy that I practice is supportive and empathetic. My approach is strengths based and utilizes CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, DBT, Psychoanalytic and Motivational Interviewing styles. My past work experiences involved providing therapy to at risk children and adults in crisis at a non-profit center and through the county. I graduated from UW-Whitewater with a bachelor's degree in Social Work and received my master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

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Joelle Wayer

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

First, hello and welcome. I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Joelle and I am a licensed therapist in Wisconsin with professional work experience in both inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities. My primary focuses are helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion. Please know that I will tailor our sessions and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I practice person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness & meditation, and relational therapy. As a strong believer in the strengths-based perspective, I highlight the personal strengths and goals that aid in the recovery and empowerment of those I work with. Additionally, as a lifelong mental health advocate, I am committed to therapy that is collaborative, authentic, and free of judgment. Embarking on a journey towards a more fulfilling and joyful life requires courage, consistency, and determination. I'm here to provide support and guidance as we move toward meaningful change. “Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you, doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone.”

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Natalie Berryman

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Tania Voter

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I specialize in providing care to individuals from diverse backgrounds with unique needs and struggles seeking Individual Counseling ages 18 +. I look forward to helping clients who are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, adult development and relationship issues, and career and life adjustment issues related to grief, loss, and life changes. I would be honored to join you on your journey towards change as we work together to help you find the holistic balance and wellness you desire. I will work to empower you to gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as you gain awareness, help, hope, and healing. I am a compassionate, culturally competent, mindful Licensed Professional Counselor who has 26 years of professional human service, education and outpatient counseling experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I focus on providing holistic, developmental, strength based and trauma informed care. I work to hear and understand your stories and struggles as we work toward your goals/needs. I am passionate about helping people in need. I look forward to hearing your life story as I work to empower you and help facilitate change on your journey toward the life you desire. My specialty areas of clinical focus includes Women's Issues and treating symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Stress as well as life adjustment issues, codependency, and divorce/relationship struggles. Reaching out is the first courageous step toward change! I offer a Client-Centered approach that is customized to your unique needs and treatment plan goals. I work with my clients from a Strength Based approach that is Holistic and Supportive; Trauma Informed and Culturally Competent. I utilize the gold standard of quality care with Cognitive Behavior Therapy; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy that is focused on your unique stage of Adult Development. I utilize an eclectic approach to care that is unique to your needs as a client. I am not a one size fits all Mental Health Therapist. I am going to get to know you and learn how to work best with you to help you meet your treatment goals. I use Client-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as my foundation as well as Holistic Psychology that is Strength Based and Compassion focused.

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Aryanna Klemme

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & depression. My preferred therapy modalities I use include: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), attachment-focused therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions. I seek to balance acceptance and change in therapy, working to establish mutual trust and collaboration in sessions where clients experience non-judgment and support to make long-lasting changes to their lives. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Madison

Finding the best therapist close by in Madison can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Madison. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Madison, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Madison or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Madison area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Madison, elsewhere in Dane, or in the greater state of Wisconsin.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Madison area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Madison therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Madison due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Madison may not take health insurance, some in the state of Wisconsin may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Wisconsin you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Madison, Wisconsin working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Madison above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Madison helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Madison therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Madison therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Madison therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in WI, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 53793 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Madison counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Madison licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Madison, Wisconsin can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Madison has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Madison.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Madison:

53701, 53703, 53704, 53705, 53706, 53707, 53708, 53711, 53713, 53714, 53715, 53716, 53717, 53718, 53719, 53725, 53726, 53744, 53774, 53777, 53778, 53779, 53782, 53783, 53784, 53785, 53786, 53788, 53789, 53790, 53791, 53792, 53793, 53794

Popular cities near Madison, WI

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