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.
Amy Schneider
I am a licensed therapist with fifteen years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, from those going through significant life changes to those healing from traumatic experiences. I graduated from UW-Milwaukee in 2009 with Bachelor's degrees in Sociology and Psychology and an honors in Liberal Arts. I continued there and graduated in 2011 with a Master's degree in Educational Psychology, with a specialty in Community Counseling. In 2018, I graduated from UW-Madison with an additional capstone degree in Infant, Early Childhood, and Family Mental Health. For the first ten years of my career I worked primarily with families through in-home therapy in Milwaukee, the City of Neighborhoods! I then joined the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin as a Child and Family Therapist and Agent for the Bureau of Child Welfare as an advocate and therapist for families in the Healthy Infant Court program at the Vel R. Phillips Juvenile Justice Center. I have worked as an independently contracted therapist through the Betterhelp site since 2020 and enjoy navigating the very new field of telehealth and online therapy. I obtained licenses from Texas and Florida in 2024. The first few times we meet, the focus will be on your life and how you have been impacted by what has happened to you. We will work together to figure out how you can get to where you’d like to be. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have about my approach, or the counseling process in general! Send me a message :) Harassment has no place in the workplace - know your rights :) I have additional education and experience in the following: Identity and Parts Work Personality and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Nutrition for Mental Health and Disordered Eating Attachment Theory and Assessment/ Developmental Psychology Cognitive Behavioral Therapy And Short-Term Behavioral Health Jungian Therapy Career Development, Work Environments, and Group Dynamics Intimacy, Sensate-Focus, and Couples Counseling Polyamorous, Open, and Alternative Relationship Structures & Dynamics Psychodynamic Therapy Healing from Break-ups and Relationship Grief Imago Relationship Therapy Dream Analysis Child Development and Child-Parent Psychotherapy Adoption Competency Foster-Care/Adoption, Separation/Divorce, and Family Legal Processes Perinatal Mental Health and Post-Partum Depression Intergenerational Mental Health Impact and Collective Consciousness Multicultural Counseling, Role of Culture in Health Practices LGBTQA+ Affirmative Practices Spirituality & Faith Experiences of Death, Dying, Grief, and the After-life Reflective Practices and Supervision Creative Therapies: Art, Writing, and Music Applied Behavior Analysis Meditation and Mindfulness Yoga (Registered Teacher at 200-Hour Level from 2023-2026) and Somatic Experiencing Due to HIPAA law and ethics within the therapy field, all information shared during therapy is kept on the site. I do not save, print, or store any information shared in sessions off of the site in a physical location. I am unable to respond to emails from clients because of the inability to identify the sender of the email. In order to ensure information is kept secure, all requests for information or documentation of therapy must come through the secured portal of your client account. Sessions may not be recorded, although live chat (synchronous messaging) sessions may be saved in the client's online journal for continued reference.
Robert Carroll
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Wisconsin with over 25 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, AODA, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Jo Ann McClure
Hi. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in WI, and have been a therapist since 2007, when I earned my Master's Degree in Community Counseling from Mount Mary University. I have experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns including grief and loss, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, work/life balance, women's issues, and life changes. I've also helped many people who have experienced trauma or abuse. My counseling style is warm, genuine and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My person-centered approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, mindfulness and solution focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to look into counseling, congrats on taking a huge step toward a more fulfilling and happy life. If you are ready, I'm here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Melissa Metzger
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Wisconsin, and school psychologist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, adjustment, autism, and ADHD etc.
Linda Skoug
As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I have over 20 years of experience. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, trauma-informed care that addresses a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, and personal growth. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, particularly focusing on young adults, older adults, and individuals processing trauma, attachment issues, and life transitions. My therapeutic style emphasizes creating a safe, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and develop stronger, more authentic connections with themselves and others. My expertise spans multiple areas, including stress management, intimacy-related concerns, social anxiety, and supporting individuals through significant life changes like divorce, midlife transitions, and personal identity exploration. I am committed to walking alongside my clients, offering empathetic guidance and evidence-based strategies that empower personal transformation and emotional resilience.
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.
David Whiteman
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you know 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 and empower you in your growth journey.
Sonia Wiesner
As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, family conflicts, and workplace stress. I have extensive experience working with older adults and supporting individuals through significant life transitions, including divorce, separation, and midlife challenges. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each client's unique needs. I focus on helping people develop healthier communication patterns, overcome social anxiety, process feelings of guilt and shame, and build stronger interpersonal relationships. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, heal from past traumas, and develop resilience. I am particularly passionate about supporting women through various life stages, addressing attachment issues, caregiver stress, and domestic violence recovery. My goal is to empower clients to understand themselves more deeply, develop effective coping strategies, and create meaningful personal growth.
Tana Rodriguez Buck
I am licensed in Wisconsin with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.
Olin "Kirk" Yauchler
I am licensed in Wisconsin with 25 years of professional work experience. I spent the first half of my career engaged in direct practice, providing psychotherapy services to individuals, couples and families. I moved into leadership roles midway through my career with an interest in having a larger impact on organizations and communities, and oversaw Behavioral Health services in a variety of settings so have extensive experience with the full continuum of care. I have recently returned to direct practice and hope to share my knowledge and expertise with individuals, couples and families struggling with mental health, substance use, relationship and other life issues. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem and confidence, personality disorders, mood disorders and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I take a client-centered approach, and will help you form a therapy plan to meet your unique and specific needs, focusing on the things you choose to work on and at your pace. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Looking forward to working with you!
Shiona Severson
With advanced training in Emotion Focused Therapy and Somatic and Attachment EMDR, along with therapeutic approaches rooted in attachment theory, I offer a person-centered treatment experience that recognizes each individual’s unique story. Together, we’ll create a space where your challenges are honored and your strengths are empowered, supporting you on every step of your journey. My practice is shaped not only by formal expertise, but also by real-world experience and a commitment to meeting you where you are. I believe that healing and growth happen through genuine connection, compassionate understanding, and practical wisdom. I use emotion-focused therapy (EFT) to help focus on our emotions and how they influence our thoughts, actions, and relationships. Additionally if appropriate I offer EMDR therapy. Your goals and progress are my primary focus. Together, we’ll identify challenges and work on strategies to help you move forward with confidence. Our first session is used to get to know each other and to explain how therapy works within the EFT model. Expectations from both you, as the client, and me, as the therapist, are created and laid out. This is a common time to be nervous, but just know that if I am not the right fit for you, I will help you find someone who is.
Trina Kroening-Skime
As a licensed clinical social worker in Wisconsin and a Licensed independent social worker in Iowa, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on compassionate, evidence-based care for those experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction challenges. I'm committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth and healing. My therapeutic practice is rooted in understanding each individual's unique journey, with a focus on empowering clients to build resilience and discover their inner strengths. I draw from contemporary therapeutic techniques to help people develop effective coping mechanisms and work through life's most challenging emotional experiences. I approach each client relationship with deep respect, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine commitment to supporting their personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with stress, trauma, or seeking personal development, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
Keith Gaertner
Therapy is one of the most important components of society at this time. Just one look at the newspaper can give an indication of how much this world needs good mental health. I'd like to help you with your journey in finding peace and freedom from the symptoms that are robbing you of your best life. We can work together to find the most effective solutions to your problems. I received my undergraduate and master's degrees from the University of WI-Milwaukee. I have done counseling work for over 22 years, and I've worked in a variety of settings including outpatient, residential, and inpatient therapy. I am licensed see clients in Wisconsin. I think my experiences will be invaluable in my work with you. Everyone has a story to tell and I would be privileged to help turn yours into a successful one. When I'm not working, I like to spend time in outdoor activities. My wife and I like to binge watch good TV series. My 15-year-old daughter is usually on the volleyball court and too cool to hang out with her parents anymore. Please feel free to contact me if you think I would be a good match for you!
Benetria McGowan
As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with a deep commitment to addressing challenges like stress, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal dynamics. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive perspective to therapy, particularly focusing on issues affecting women, young adults, and multicultural communities. My therapeutic work honors individual experiences while helping clients develop resilience, self-love, and effective communication strategies. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I support clients through diverse challenges including relationship transitions, workplace stress, social anxiety, and personal growth. My goal is to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and genuine care, helping them uncover their inherent strengths and move towards more fulfilling lives.
Find a Therapist Near You in Portage , Wisconsin
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Wisconsin can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Wisconsin is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Wisconsin, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Wisconsin (WI). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
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 on BetterHelp support adults across Wisconsin with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Wisconsin
When searching for a therapist near me in Wisconsin, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Wisconsin, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Wisconsin.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Wisconsin want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Wisconsin
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Wisconsin without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Wisconsin (WI)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
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 private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.