Life can bruise you with its constant challenges, disappointments, and losses. You think constantly about your problems without ever finding any solutions. Your emotions run from sadness to anxiety to anger. You feel unable to get through each day. Problems come from both your environment and your own mind.
Portage is the hometown of Earl Abell, who was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. When life’s problems tackle you, facing the next play seems unimaginable. You don’t know how to improve your mental wellbeing. Talk to a counselor in the Portage area for a brand-new playbook.
Carissa Alt-Frankard
I'm a licensed therapist in Wisconsin dedicated to supporting individuals through life's meaningful transitions and challenges. With extensive experience, I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and family conflicts. I'm particularly passionate about helping people cultivate self-love, improve communication, and find their sense of purpose. My approach is grounded in compassion and genuine connection. I specialize in supporting women through unique life experiences—including pregnancy, childbirth, and body image concerns—as well as young adults facing workplace pressures, social anxiety, and isolation. I also work with clients processing guilt, shame, and forgiveness as they move toward healing. I create a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your authentic self and build the life you deserve. Whether you're working through family dynamics, relationship patterns, or personal growth, I'm here to support you with honesty, respect, and care. I believe in meeting you where you are and walking alongside you as you discover your strength and resilience.
Gillian Van Dien
As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I bring 17 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, holistic care that honors each person's unique journey. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and trauma, with a deep commitment to helping clients develop self-love and self-compassion, improve communication, and navigate life transitions. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to overcome problematic patterns, build resilience, and reconnect with their sense of purpose. I have extensive expertise in supporting adults and teenagers learning to manage stress and anxiety and resolve depression, women working through personal and cultural issues, young adults, and individuals experiencing midlife challenges. My practice creates a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. I approach therapy as a collaborative process, believing that every individual has the inner resources to grow and transform. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, workplace stress, relationship dynamics, or personal identity challenges, I'm here to walk alongside you with understanding and professional guidance.
Jennifer Schulz-Johnston
I've been practicing as an LPC in a private community-based clinic for the last 17 years. My specialty has been with traumatized youth in a group day treatment setting. I've also utilized play therapy with children while focusing on trauma resolution and healthy attachment with caregivers. Long ago and far away, I was trained in Levels I and II of EMDR. I'm admittedly rusty and not sure how this could be utilized in messaging, but I'm willing to explore how it may be integrated.
Shane Schuhmacher
Hello. I have spent nearly 20 years in the Human Services field and after earning my counseling psychology degree, it became even more clear how to best help others through the counseling process. Counseling is a process of self-discovery and being able to help people learn how to deal more effectively with situations in their lives appeals to my fascination with the human condition. It is important to build a therapeutic relationship so we are able to get a deeper understanding of your thoughts and emotions to support you in feeling better and moving forward. I utilize a variety of approaches, but commonly employ cognitive behavioral and solution focused approaches, and motivational interviewing techniques to explore issues including, but not limited to, depression, addiction and substance abuse, stress, anger, anxiety, problems with self- esteem, grief, issues related to mental and emotional health, and relational problems. I will meet you with unconditional positive regard and respect. Using active listening and reflections, my approach is individualized and client centered so as to support you in achieving your potential along with your goals and objectives. It is really powerful having trouble imagining a problem being solved, and as we work together, change and understanding both will happen along the way. I look forward to working with you! Take good care, and talk soon.
Holly Gardenier
Troubled times can create anxious thoughts and choices. Whether wanting the sadness to end, or [re]discovering purposefulness, or wrestling with uncomfortable thoughts, targeted therapy can help. I believe that the answers lay within each of us. My training has focused on mitigating trauma, resolving grief, and tolerating uncertainty. I am EMDR certified, utilize mindfulness and cognitive therapy models, and have advanced training in working with addictions and other troubling behavior issues. Adding meditation as a daily ritual can be clarifying and fruitful in making everyday decisions. My encouragement will be to go beyond the surface of your life to explore the depth within. Fear, loss, joy and awareness are contained in the cells of our being. We carry every experience of and response to our lives deep inside. I believe each of us has the answers to our life's puzzles, and my job is to provide a compassionate and safe space for that journey. I look forward to working alongside you.
Richard Broach
After more than 20 years in the counseling fields as a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin, my approach to collaborating with clients has a two-fold approach. First, I believe in a holistic approach. Almost every problem we experience has various pieces. Somewhat like the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, the pieces need to be laid out and evaluated to see the relationships among them to come up with solutions. This includes the present moment, our upbringing, our current employment, our own relationships, stresses past and present, any traumatic experiences we’ve had, etc. My second approach flows from the first belief in a holistic treatment. I encourage clients to develop a SANE lifestyle. Evidenced research shows a direct link among the elements of Sleep, Activities, Nutrition, and Exercise to our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I embody what I encourage others to do. I also believe the path to wholeness lies within each of us and through the experience of heartfelt conversations we find that power within to bring about our own healing.
Christine Vollmer
As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I bring over 16 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges related to depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and self-esteem. I specialize in supporting individuals through significant life transitions, focusing on personal growth, healing, and empowerment. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and holistic, addressing a wide range of concerns including social anxiety, relationship dynamics, workplace stress, and personal identity challenges. I'm particularly committed to supporting older adults, women, and individuals experiencing midlife transitions, helping them rediscover purpose, strengthen self-love, and develop resilient coping strategies. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support as you navigate your unique journey toward emotional wellness and self-understanding.
Elizabeth Johnson
I am licensed in Wisconsin with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adult clients struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD and other mood disorders. Special interest in women's issues including adult survivors of sexual, physical, emotional abuse and domestic violence. Also experienced in helping to increase self confidence and self-esteem and providing guidance in navigating life transitions. I believe in the strength and resiliency of the human spirit and consider it a privilege to empower clients to overcome personal barriers in order to live a more satisfying life. I feel that it is very important to continue to grow and challenge yourself regardless of age. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Lauren Piper
Hi, I'm a licensed therapist in Wisconsin with three years of professional experience. I support clients navigating stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, low self-esteem, and confidence challenges. I believe you are the expert of your own story. My role is to help you tap into your strengths, gain clarity, and build the tools you need to move through life's challenges. Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage, and I'm really glad you're here.
Yelena Drozdov-Clawson
I am a licensed therapist in Wisconsin. I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach centers on helping clients develop resilience, self-understanding, and healthy coping strategies, particularly for those navigating depression, anxiety, career difficulties, and interpersonal dynamics. My practice focuses on addressing diverse needs, including women's issues, multicultural concerns, caregiver stress, family problems, and challenges related to aging and immigration. I bring a compassionate, subtle perspective to supporting older adults and individuals seeking a thoughtful, conservative therapeutic approach. Drawing from in-person and virtual clinical experience, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotional needs, build self-esteem, and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My work is grounded in appreciating each person's unique journey and providing tailored, empathetic guidance. I am committed to providing individualized goal plans, honoring client's personal experiences and helping them cultivate greater self-love, emotional balance, and personal empowerment.
Katie Ross-McGinnis
As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My clinical approach centers on helping clients address challenges like social anxiety, trauma recovery, attachment issues, and life transitions. I'm deeply committed to creating a compassionate, affirming space where individuals can explore their experiences and develop meaningful coping strategies. My therapeutic work focuses on understanding the unique intersections of personal experience, including struggles with isolation, obsessive patterns, and the impacts of past trauma. I draw from evidence-based practices to support clients dealing with diverse challenges, from addiction recovery to processing experiences of abuse and exploring identity. I believe in a collaborative approach that honors each person's individual journey. My goal is to provide supportive, non-judgmental guidance that empowers clients to build resilience, enhance self-understanding, and create positive change in their lives.
Megan McDermott
As a licensed clinical social worker in Wisconsin, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and personal challenges. My professional approach centers on helping clients navigate relationships, addiction recovery, family dynamics, and personal growth. I'm deeply committed to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. My expertise spans a range of sensitive and meaningful areas, including supporting individuals and families affected by domestic violence, relational trauma, addiction recovery, and major life transitions such as pregnancy, divorce, and family restructuring. I’m especially passionate about working with those navigating discrimination, exploring identity—particularly around being biracial or multicultural—and embracing neurodiversity. My goal is to help each person find healing, confidence, and a stronger sense of self within their unique story. I believe in a holistic, client-centered approach that honors each person's journey. By combining empathy with evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I aim to empower clients to cultivate self-love, resilience, and authentic connection in their lives.
Ellen Daubert
As a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and self-esteem concerns. I have a deep commitment to supporting older adults and individuals experiencing isolation, loneliness, and social anxiety. My therapeutic approach centers on fostering self-love, exploring life purpose, and healing from experiences of guilt, shame, and attachment wounds. I provide compassionate guidance through significant life transitions, including divorce and separation, and offer specialized support for caregivers experiencing stress. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their inner world, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. My goal is to walk alongside you as you rediscover your strengths, build self-compassion, and create more fulfilling connections in your life.
Derica Ringo
I'm a counselor dedicated to supporting individuals through life's most challenging transitions and emotions. My work centers on helping clients navigate depression, trauma, family conflicts, and anger—while building meaningful connections with themselves and others. I specialize in fostering self-love and authentic communication, helping people move through isolation and loneliness toward greater social confidence. Whether you're processing grief, rebuilding after difficult experiences, or searching for deeper life purpose, I'm here to support your journey with compassion and care. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and a genuine belief in your capacity for growth. I utilize CBT, Narrative, and EMDR therapy. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings, strengthen your relationships, and cultivate forgiveness—both for others and yourself. Starting therapy takes courage, and I'm honored to walk alongside you as you work toward healing and meaningful change.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Portage, Wisconsin
Finding a therapist near you in Portage, Wisconsin starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Wisconsin is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Wisconsin, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Wisconsin, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Wisconsin
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Wisconsin, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Wisconsin
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Wisconsin
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Wisconsin through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Wisconsin
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Wisconsin, including residents in Portage.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Wisconsin do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Portage, Wisconsin
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Portage and the surrounding WI area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.