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Stefanie Johnson

Offering therapy in WI
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Welcome, and thank you for being here to learn more about me to see if we could be a good fit to work together! My name is Stefanie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Wisconsin. I have over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field and have worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient hospital, Intensive Outpatient programs, in-home therapy, case management programs and outpatient therapy. All that means is that I have a wide variety of experience that has allowed me to see and work with a wide range and severity of clinical issues. Much of my experience is working with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, PTSD and severe and persistent mental illness, like schizophrenia. Throughout the course of working with those particular mental health issues, I also have worked with family and relationship conflicts and anger issues. My desire to pursue a career in the mental health field began in my senior year of high school and I stayed with that path all throughout my undergraduate and graduate education. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (go Blugolds!) and my Master's degree in Educational Psychology - Community Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. After I completed my undergraduate degree, I worked for about one year for the Bureau of Milwaukee Child Welfare as a case manager for families involved in the foster care system. I learned quickly in that job while making referrals for the families on my caseload for mental health services that I wanted to be the person receiving those referrals. I have experienced first-hand mental health issues in my own family and understand how challenging it can be coping with these issues for the person struggling and their loved ones. I also have seen how much life can improve for people when they find the support they need and can begin to take better care of themselves. Despite so much effort to eliminate it, the stigma around mental health remains and I believe that being able to access support online can reach so many more people who want to take steps toward taking better care of themselves. I recently took a few years away from outpatient therapy to be at home with my young, growing family and I think that utilizing online counseling is the perfect fit right now for me and my family. I use a holistic, person-centered, eclectic approach to my work, meaning I will meet you where you are at and tailor my approach to your needs. My treatment approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and has been strongly influenced by Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I also utilize mindfulness techniques, values based therapy and solution focused therapy. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprogramming) for working with people who have experienced trauma. If you are looking for someone to give advice or tell you what to do, I am not your person. I believe in facilitating a conversation that leads you to discovering how you can best cope with, manage and overcome the struggles you have. That sounds like a little “tough love” and I do have that side of me, but I also come from a place of empathy and warmth that helps to foster that conversation to be supportive and effective. I believe that mental health is as important as physical health, and just like it can take time to see positive changes in our physical health and wellness, I believe that mental health requires the same consistency and patience to see positive changes. I look forward to working with you and thank you again for taking the time to get to know me a little better.

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Lisa Zwagerman

Offering therapy in WI
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a professional counselor, licensed in the state of Wisconsin. My experience as a mental health counselor, career counselor, and life coach have given me opportunities to work with people through life's changes and challenges. Some of my experience is with with college age clients, new moms and dads, physician families, women specific issues, people navigating career changes, and school age children. I believe that a counseling relationship can be helpful for all individuals. I am warm, understanding, joyful, and appropriately empathetic to any and all seasons one might be experiencing and I believe it takes true strength and courage to seek support around current struggles. I see myself as a partner in your life and seek to come alongside and support you. I am open to working with individuals experiencing a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, family/relationship stress, parenting issues, work related stress, physical/emotional trauma, and Pandemic fallout. My counseling style is client centered and leans toward cognitive behavioral, with a strength based approach.

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Shelley Janz

Offering therapy in WI
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello! I am a Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working in the State of Wisconsin with both Individuals and Couples. During my career, I have over 10 years experience working with individuals experiencing grief, loss, and end of life concerns. My specialties also include; relationship/family issues, anger management, depression/anxiety issues, and life coaching personal development. I also have experience working with LGTBQ+ clients, as well as First Responder/Law Enforcement groups. My counseling style is person centered; focused on inclusivity, and compassion. My goal is to help you identify your specific goals and then use a treatment plan to help meet your unique and specific needs. I am professionally trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I believe, however, that no one style or technique is good for every person or situation, so I tailor my approach to what works best for you. Our work together is a "judgment free" zone. Regardless of your Age, Gender, Sexual Orientation, or Race, I believe strongly in treating everyone with dignity and respect. Talking to someone you don't know about personal issues can be very intimidating. It takes courage to seek help to achieve a happier and more fulfilling life. If you are ready to start that journey towards achieving your goals, then I will be there each step of the way to help guide you toward them. I look forward to working with you!

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Candace Delis

Offering therapy in WI
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Arts in Community Counseling from Lakeland University and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. I work to create a safe, comfortable and accepting environment for my clients. I have previously worked in crisis intervention as well as group therapy settings and like to focus on providing positive support for my clients. I've been told I'm not the "typical" therapist type - I have tattoos and a pretty progressive viewpoint, and I also work really hard to be relatable to my clients. I'm married and have an 18 year old stepson. The rest of my family is made up of 3 rescue dogs, 3 adopted cats, and we recently reached what I call the "livestock level" of quarantine and got chickens and goats. It's a pretty full house. I have worked with adolescents, adults, and couples. I have worked with a wide range of issues, but some of my areas of specialization include: emotional regulation (anger, anxiety), depression, self-esteem building, bipolar disorder, PTSD, grief and loss, assertiveness building, marital issues and relationship building skills. I also have experience with end of life care. My counseling style is interactive, and I believe in treating people as individuals and not labeling them with their mental health issues. You are not your illness, it is only a small part of who you are. I believe in treating people with the same respect, sensitivity, and compassion as I would like to be treated. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and solution focused counseling. I will do my best to tailor our conversations and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek support and take steps towards making a change. Life can throw us curveballs and unexpected circumstances can arise with even the best of planning. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support you and help you find the tools that will help you succeed. I look forward to working with you! My current hours are (all are CST): Mondays 9am-8pm Tuesdays 8am-8pm Wednesdays 8am-8pm Thursdays 8am-8pm Fridays 8am-8pm Saturdays 8am-5pm (These are my Winter hours and will change at the end of May)

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cindy stuhmer

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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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.

This is Courtney Stack's avatar and link to their profile

Courtney Stack

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Wisconsin. I have been working as a therapist for about 7 years. Helping others has become my greatest passion. My belief is that each individual can become the best version of themselves if given the proper tools and a support system. I use practices such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and experiential techniques combined with a Person-Centered approach in order to help my clients reach their full potential. In my opinion, the most important part of the therapeutic process is the partnership between a client and their therapist. My goal is to provide a safe atmosphere where my clients are able to express themselves and build upon their unique strengths and overcome their challenges.

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Shanna Krueger

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. 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.

This is Cheryl Teague's avatar and link to their profile

Cheryl Teague

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 5 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Penelope McGee's avatar and link to their profile

Penelope McGee

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota, North Carolina and Wisconsin with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.

How to find counseling in Merton

Finding the best therapist close by in Merton 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 Merton. 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 Merton, 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 Merton 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 Merton 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 Merton, elsewhere in Waukesha, 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 Merton area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Merton 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 Merton 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 Merton 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 Merton, 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 Merton 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 Merton 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 Merton 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 Merton 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 Merton 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 53089 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 Merton 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 Merton 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 Merton, 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.

Merton 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Merton.

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

53029, 53056, 53089

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