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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Psychologist Dr. Denise Petrelli-Holst providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Dr. Denise Petrelli-Holst

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 7028-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
26 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in the helping profession for over 25 years. My journey has had many twists and turns that have been personally and professionally rewarding. My career path has been non-traditional over the years as I have been active in a variety of positions: Auto Industry, Mentor and Tutor, Educator and Art Therapist, Business Owner and Business Consultant, which have encompassed into a unique set of skills and knowledge for a Professional Counselor. My professional experiences have been in public and private business and include for-profit and not-for profit organizations. My counseling and life philosophy are open and flexible. I believe that finding methods that work for you can help with life's challenges. Life is a journey filed with opportunities, lessons to be learned, hardships to overcome, and joys to celebrate. I believe that an individual can be in control of their journey once they take ownership of the decisions they make and paths to follow. Looking forward to hearing from you, Dr. Denise Petrelli-Holst

Psychologist Nicole Jackson providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Nicole Jackson

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 7520-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

Nicole has many talents. Her passion in nestled in the likes of helping others. She is currently employed Full-time with Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) and pool behavioral health staff with Columbia-St. Mary’s. Nicole’s other job duties include Federal Re-entry, clinical supervision, counseling (individual and group), consultation, AODA, Mental Health, and Trauma education and training, as well as administrative tasks. Nicole has diverse ability to use many counseling modalities however Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) and corrective thinking techniques are primary in Nicole’s work. Most of Nicole’s work surrounds the adult population, specifically in the criminal justice system. Nicole was also trained as a Parenting/Nurturing facilitator and sex offender treatment. Nicole completed her undergraduate degree in psychology and drug counseling at Alverno College, where she joined PSI CHI, The National Honors Society in Psychology. She went on to complete her Masters degree at Mount Mary College, now known as Mount Mary University in community counseling with a focus on mental health and trauma.

Psychologist Timothy Newlin providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Timothy Newlin

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 476 - 125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Wisconsin with over 40 years of professional mental health therapy experience in helping clients with relationship issues, as well as depression, anxiety and family conflicts, and much more. I work with a wide range of clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. A very important first step is establishing a trusting relationship, so that experiences can be shared freely. Taking that first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist John Gosling providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

John Gosling

Clinician
License Type(s): AZ LPC LPC-22764, WI LPC 3747-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
24 years offering treatment

I am grateful for you. No matter who you are, what you have done, you will be accepted. I bring a welcoming and accepting attitude and strong desire to help you enhance your self-understanding but also to help you determine what is best for you. Like Carl Rogers my mentor, I will listen to you as you are accepted wholly. Resources will be suggested in order to enhance your appreciation of yourself, those in your life and the activities you engage in on a regular - seldom basis. We will discuss and develop a personalized self-awareness and -improvement plan and partner in active addressing, modifying and completing of this plan. I bring experience within a family, in helping individuals have better relationships, identify and excel in their self-support and -thriving worlds and to reach out to enhance these as necessary. Gratefully, I have served many populations: new immigrants, medically vulnerable, the un- and under-employed, at-risk students, concerned family members and look forward to welcoming, honoring and serving you, a definite gift. Thank you for learning more about me. I offer you total acceptance.

Psychologist Alana Pope providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Alana Pope

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 7528-125, GA LPC LPC013148
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Georgia and Wisconsin with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Deborah Thoennes providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Deborah Thoennes

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 5260-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Wisconsin with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Lauren Piper providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Lauren Piper

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 11487 - 123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Dr. Mary Weeden providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Dr. Mary Weeden

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149006727, WI LCSW 9075 - 123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am a licensed clinical social work therapist in both Wisconsin and Illinois with three decades of professional experience, including as a registered nurse. My clinical experience includes eating disorders, depressive disorders, issues with anxiety, stress, loss and grief, motivation, self-esteem, & confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I will support and empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Bryan Krause providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Bryan Krause

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 12252-123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
3 years offering treatment

My name is Bryan and I am a licensed therapist in Wisconsin with over 3 years of professional clinical experience. However, I have been in the mental health field since 2016 with the last 3 being direct therapeutic services. For the last 2 years I have been working in intensive treatment programming to support acute care for patients in mental health crisis. I have enjoyed this immensely and have considered in a privilege to walk alongside patients during this time to stabilize symptoms and work towards functional goals as they work through their mental health needs. I am looking forward to working with patient on a longer term basis to support more recovery skills and building a strong foundation for mental health recovery. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, OCD, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I look forward to meeting you and hearing your story and exploring your life values. I find it vital in clinical practice to work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where collaboration happens and thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I will include you in every step of the process and look forward to working through these challenges together. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am excited that you have taken that step and look forward to working together towards your goals.

Psychologist Beth Wanke providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Beth Wanke

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 8228 - 123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
7 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin with over 17 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families through life’s challenges. Six of the seven years include direct mental health practice and 11 include child welfare practice. My areas of specialty include stress and anxiety, substance use disorders, parenting challenges, self-esteem, motivation, trauma, and involvement with child welfare systems. I also have extensive experience working with individuals navigating family conflict, life transitions, and complex emotional or behavioral concerns. My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and nonjudgmental. I believe healing begins in a space where clients feel safe, heard, and respected. I partner with clients to better understand their experiences, build on their strengths, and develop practical tools to create meaningful change. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, uncertain, or simply looking for support, I strive to create an environment where thoughts and feelings can be explored openly without fear of judgment. Throughout my career, I have worked in outpatient mental health, substance use treatment, correctional settings, in-home therapy, and child welfare services. I have experience providing individual, group, and family therapy using evidence-based and trauma-informed approaches, including Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and strengths-based interventions. My background in child welfare and family systems gives me additional insight into parenting stress, family dynamics, and the impact of trauma on both children and adults. In addition to my clinical work, I have served as an adjunct faculty instructor teaching substance abuse counseling and mentoring future helping professionals. I am passionate about helping people recognize their resilience, reconnect with their values, and move toward healthier and more fulfilling lives. Taking the first step toward therapy can feel intimidating, and reaching out takes courage. I am proud of you for getting started and would be honored to support you in your journey.

Psychologist Ashley Heiges providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Ashley Heiges

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 11524 - 123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & anger management. I also have experience working with bipolar disorder. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Tabitha Garton providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Tabitha Garton

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 5358 - 125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with over a decade of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional focus centers on helping clients work through trauma, body image challenges, anxiety, depression, and relationship dynamics. I bring a compassionate and evidence-based approach to therapy, understanding that healing is a deeply personal journey. My work is rooted in creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. My expertise spans critical areas including posttraumatic stress, self-harm recovery, eating-related concerns, and emotional wellness. I am committed to walking alongside my clients, offering skilled guidance and unconditional support as they move toward greater emotional balance and self-understanding.

Psychologist Mark Machak providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Mark Machak

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 10668 - 125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficulties
5 years offering treatment

I work with many individuals struggling with perfectionism, anxiety, emotional disconnection, relationship dissatisfaction, chronic self-pressure or burnout, and difficulty enjoying life. I work best with people who are ready to make meaningful (although sometimes difficult) changes in their life. I tend to have more of an "active" stance in sessions, providing practical skills, tools, insights, and feedback to serve clients' goals. My approach is integrative-combining psychodynamics, attachment, and development. I work with people to clarify their goals and needs for a range of life's obstacles. My specialties and areas of interest include : trauma, relationships, and career decision-making. I utilize knowledge and experience from clinical and research settings. If you struggle with perfectionism, repeated relationship issues, procrastination, chronic burnout, or emotions--reach out to see if we'd be a good fit!

Psychologist Brittany Russotto providing different types of therapy in Wauwatosa

Brittany Russotto

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 11663 - 123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsEating disordersParenting issuesDepression
3 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience working with individuals in various settings including individually, those in residential care and those in an inpatient hospital setting. Being a woman and a mother allows me to bring lived understanding, empathy, and attunement to the unique challenges women and mothers face. My personal experience helps me relate to the emotional demands, identity shifts, and pressures that can contribute to anxiety, depression, and unhealthy ways to cope including, disordered eating and substance use. In our first session, you can expect a relaxed, supportive conversation focused on getting to know you and what brings you to therapy. I take a down‑to‑earth, collaborative approach and appreciate humor as a way to help ease nerves and create connection. As a therapist, I am down‑to‑earth, supportive, and approachable, helping clients feel at ease quickly—even when discussing difficult topics. My ability to use humor thoughtfully allows me to build connection, reduce shame, and make therapy feel human rather than intimidating.

Find a Therapist Near You in Wauwatosa , 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:

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:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Wisconsin (WI)
  3. 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 Wauwatosa.

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.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Wauwatosa can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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