Established in 1845, the City of Saint Francis was named after the Saint Francis Seminary, which was founded by Archbishop John Henni, the first Archbishop of Milwaukee. The motto of the town is “where your heart remains,” because even those who have moved away have always loved this town the best.

Moving away from your hometown can be rough as can any other major change in your life. Whether you are young or old, male or female, and whatever your social status, things are always changing and sometimes we need someone to talk to about it. If you want to talk to someone who understands, you can contact one of the Saint Francis area therapists or counselors for support.

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April Shields

Offering therapy in WI
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
15 years of experience

Are you looking for support in removing what is blocking you from loving who you are, doing what you love, and connecting with the people you love? I can help you develop more positive relationships and become more aware of what might be stopping you from moving forward in your personal and professional life. I provide an empathic environment that opens the way for self-discovery. I hope that you will feel supported and more confident as you take steps toward living a life you feel passionate about. I approach therapy as a collaborative process, working with each client to fully realize their own goals, desires, needs, path, etc. This varies from client to client as I meet each individual where they are and base each contact on their individual needs. I strive to communicate with clients in a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate way. I also use somatic approaches such as guided meditation and breathwork. My number one goal for all of my clients is to help them get to a place of more self-trust, self-compassion, and self-love. Wouldn't it feel amazing to trust yourself so much that you don't constantly second guess yourself, over-analyze, or question every decision you make?

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Julie Offutt

Offering therapy in WI
License: LCSW,CSAC,ICS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Hello, my name is Julie Anne Offutt. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) and Independent Clinical Supervisor (ICS) in Wisconsin. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and my Masters in Science and Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I attended MATC to obtain my Clinical Substance Abuse License, and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee for my Independent Clinical Supervisor license. I currently work at a well respected substance abuse treatment facility in Milwaukee. We are faced with an opiate crisis here, as is the rest of our country, and my focus is harm reduction as a starting point for patients; how can they make small changes every day to increase their chances of overall, lasting change? I favor journaling, reading (flash fiction, short stories) or viewing movies as exercises in emotional regulation; I often suggest or lightly "assign" patients reading material, or journaling exercises, to experience emotions, and to identify the thoughts that precede these emotions. I favor Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as an effective strategy for changing patients' self talk - their ongoing dialogue with themselves. It is here that writing and reading can be especially useful; how can one rewrite their thoughts so they are more positive; real and manageable? Sometimes, patients can write letters to themselves (via email for example) as a way of developing a better sense of self. For those who don't enjoy writing, there are ways to verbalize thoughts; get them out in the open, to hear how harshly one speaks to oneself. Often, the patient or client knows the answer; it is merely a question of exploration; a conversation with a therapist to 'get it out.' The connection between therapist and patient is one of the most authentic, hopeful exchanges between people. I am privileged to call this my work.

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Esther Witter

Offering therapy in WI
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

Hello and welcome to BetterHelp! I am so excited to join you on your journey to happiness, contentment, and wellness. I understand it is difficult to take the first steps in overcoming the burdens you are living with. I applaud your strength! You may be new to the therapy process or you may have tried therapy several times before without success. Whatever your situation, I am ready to join you in increasing your understanding of yourself. We all have strengths that will be helpful in the process and I am ready to help you learn how to utilize theses strengths to overcome your obstacles. I can offer a safe environment to explore feelings, thoughts, and previous life experiences that negatively impact your ability to be happy. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin and enjoy working with teens and adults. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, trauma, PTSD, grief, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. For teens and parents I proved a safe space which allows you to increase your understanding regarding how current behaviors and belief systems create unhealthy interactions and relationships. I offer afternoon and evening appointments most days. Let's get started!

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Alesia Bates

Offering therapy in WI
License: 8477-123,MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 6 years of experience working with adults & elders. I am excited to work with you & come to my practice with warmth, empathy & understanding. Each person is a unique & dynamic individual with their own path. I believe in using a collaborative approach, non-judgmental and an eclectic practice style; to help you meet new challenges & reach your goals. I use an integrated approach to suit your needs. I believe that therapy should be a partnership that takes into account all aspects of a client's life. I use a holistic approach to ensure clients find solutions quickly. My belief is that therapy is much like climbing a mountain (or a hill) and that I'm here to walk along side you during this journey to help you along the way. I am currently practicing in Wisconsin and with International clients. I'm looking forward to learning more about you and starting our work together.

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Colleen Prendergast

Offering therapy in WI
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor currently living in Wisconsin with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health counselor. l help clients who are struggling with emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues from young adult and to seniors. The people I help are challenged by anxiety, depression, ADHD, troubled relationships, separation, and divorce, family conflict, grief and loss, trauma, stress management and social isolation. My clients have described me as energetic, genuine, creative, empathetic and present. There is never a one-size-fits-all treatment strategy. Each person deserves individualized therapy that is tailored to their specific needs. I have an integrative and eclectic approach, which often uses: Person Centered, Positive Strength Based, Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems, Emotionally Focused, Mindfulness and Creative Therapy. I also have been trained in Grief Counseling, Expressive Therapy, MBSR, and Therapy-based yoga interventions. I would like to first work on a therapeutic relationship built on trust, positive regard and acceptance. I would like you to feel comfortable and know that what we discuss is between us and there is no judgment by me. I will offer you a safe environment to open up and discuss your concerns, and work together towards establishing the right skills that will alleviate your distress or worries and help create a happier and healthier you. I am holistically driven, and believe in a body, mind, spirit approach to helping you be your best self. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. We live in a culture that is built on individual determinism which can make it hard to ask for help. It takes courage to reach out and get support. You are here and that is a good first step. If you are ready to take this further I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Monica Kroeplin

Offering therapy in WI
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
11 years of experience

I am a Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with over 10 years of experience working as a mental health therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, stress management, communication skills, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I understand the importance of faith in life and as a healing agent in therapy and if this is important to you it can incorporated in the therapy process. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Preprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Jayne Foster

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & 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.

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Jennifer Hedke

Offering therapy in WI
License: ATR,LIMHP,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in the states of Montana, Arizona, Nebraska, Colorado, and Wisconsin and a nationally registered art therapist. I graduated from Mount Mary University in 2015 with a master's degree in Art Therapy with a concentration in Counseling. I have worked in residential treatment, educational settings, and in addiction treatment. I have worked with children, teens, and adults providing individual, group, and family therapy. I have experience working with individuals struggling with addiction and substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, self-harm, and for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. I provide care using person-centered and trauma-informed approaches. I engage with clients empathetically and allow my clients to be the experts on themselves while I help guide the therapeutic process. I often adjust my counseling style to fit each individual's needs. I am glad that you are taking the first steps to improve your life and I look forward to working with you!

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Laura Gillis

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

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a Master’s Degree in Community and School Counseling. I use a collaborative, goal-focused approach to help you explore barriers and provide strategies and practices that help you foster self-care, coping skills, and personal growth. I work with teens, young adults, and older individuals. I will create a warm, safe, non judgmental space for you to process, heal, and set manageable goals. I use mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and self-compassionate approaches in my therapy practice. My interests include working with you to help manage stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and relationships. 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 can take courage and I am proud of you.

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Tana Rodriguez Buck

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 12 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.

How to find counseling in Saint Francis

Finding the best therapist close by in Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis. 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 Saint Francis, 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis, elsewhere in Milwaukee, 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 Saint Francis area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis, 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 53235 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis, 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.

Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis.

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

53235

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