Finding a light in the darkness can feel so relieving. When you're wandering through depression, getting that little light of hope can make you feel better. Who can be that light who can help you? A counselor based in Wauwatosa may be able to help you get your light again. 

Wauwatosa means “firefly.” In darkness, those fireflies can light up the dark and make the night look beautiful. A counselor can be a firefly that guides you home. Speak to one today and see how they can help you. 

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Emily Priestaf

Offering therapy in WI
License: LMHC,LPC,MT-BC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Emily, and I’m a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in the state of Washington, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Wisconsin, and am a board certified music therapist (MT-BC) with an M.A. in clinical mental health counseling and music therapy. If you are struggling to cope with difficult emotions or have experienced stressful life experiences, connecting with a therapist can equip you with skills and support. Additionally, working with a therapist can help you build awareness around yourself and your relationships. I care deeply about the relationship I establish with my clients. I am supportive, empathetic and nonjudgmental, bring warmth and compassion to the work and enjoy working collaboratively. My treatment approach combines person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and creative practices. You are an individual and know yourself best, so I like to be able to give options for how we can work based upon what you are hoping to focus on for goals. If you are the kind of person who needs a sounding board, I can be that for you. If you are a person who needs structure and support, we can use more CBT. If you like more of a creative approach with music, art, or other expressive avenues, we can utilize those in the therapeutic process. If all or none of those sound like they would be a good fit, I would love to hear what you need and will support you, because again, you know yourself and your needs better than anyone else. I will help you identify and meet your goals, challenge thought patterns, draw on your own strengths to problem solve and help you learn new tools to function effectively and fulfill your potential. I have a breadth of experience working with kids, teens, young adults, and adults. I look forward to hearing from you and learning about your challenges and goals for the future.

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Sarah Platzer

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyDepression
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Wisconsin with over 6 years of experience working at a Behavioral Health hospital and outpatient clinic. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger, and ADHD. I have also worked with many clients who have struggled with self-harm and suicide. My approach is client centered and my training has been heavily focused in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). When working with clients, I strive to make them feel comfortable opening up. Coming to therapy is often a difficult choice to make, and I am here to help you achieve your treatment goals. You have made the first step and I am here to help you along the way. Therapy can be difficult at times, and I bring a warm energy and often use humor. I am excited to meet you and start working with you!

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Jennifer Walker

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

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

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Diane Jensen

Offering therapy in WI
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
28 years of experience

Hello, My name is Diane Jensen and I have been a therapist for 30 years, licensed in the State of Wisconsin. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, ADHD, trauma, co-dependency, self-esteem, anger management, grief and loss, self-care and assertiveness training. The feedback I receive from clients is that they find me to be caring and nonjudgmental, easy to talk with, and they appreciate that I am honest and direct with them. You can expect me to walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself on the journey. 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. I can interact with you in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I find it helpful to participate in video sessions so that we can get to know each other better. But I am also available to you via phone and text if that is more comfortable for you. A majority of my availability is in the daytime and I check messages at least once during each weekday. It would be my privilege to work with you!

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michael nicholson

Offering therapy in WI
AddictionsDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions concerns and general mental health care needs such as depression and anxiety. 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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Lester Menke

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Joelle Wayer

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

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

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Ke'Andra Hagans

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
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, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Dr. Andrea Janis Towey

Offering therapy in WI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & 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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Patricia Pardy

Offering therapy in WI
License: LMHC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am a Mental Health Counselor, licensed in New York State, with over 16 years experience in the counseling field. I have had experience assisting clients with a wide range of concerns, such as, parenting issues, family/personal relationships, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, and anger management. It is my belief therapy should be tailored to the individual client's needs, therefore I often use a combination of therapeutic techniques and approaches when providing treatment. My main goal as a therapist is to ensure a safe and supportive environment in which my client can feel comfortable exploring their individual issues. The clients I have worked with would say I am a caring and empathetic therapist who strives to develop a relationship with her clients that will allow for honesty and maximize client growth. I look forward to working with you! Patricia Pardy, LMHC, BC-TMH

How to find counseling in Wauwatosa

Finding the best therapist close by in Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa. 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 Wauwatosa, 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 Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa, 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 Wauwatosa area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa, 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 Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa 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 53222 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 Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa, 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.

Wauwatosa 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 Wauwatosa.

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

53213, 53222, 53225, 53226

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