Category Archives: Adoption/Fostercare Issues

Shelby Brandsma, MSW, LCSW

Areas of Interest Shelby provides assessment and treatment of all ages for individuals, couples and families.  She has a strong interest in working with families experiencing divorce, and with children on coping skills and adjustment, including working as a team when parent/child estrangement has occurred.  Shelby draws from a variety of approaches including CBT, functional family therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, reintegration therapy, art and play therapies. Education Bachelor’s in Social Work, Marian College 1996 Masters level certification in Trauma Counseling, UW-Milwaukee 2000 Master’s in Social Work-with additional coursework in substance abuse and working with children, UW-Madison 2019 Additional training in Trauma Focused-CBT and working with high conflict families. Experience Shelby has been a social worker for 25 years working with children and families in child protection, juvenile justice and family court.  Shelby has been a therapeutic mentor with adolescents through Family Youth Interactive.  Shelby has presented on various topics including parenting, co-parenting, ethics and boundaries, and family court services *Note: Ms. Brandsma treats patients 4 & older.

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Adoption/Fostercare Issues, Anger Management, Anxiety, AODA Education, Autism/Aspergers, Bipolar, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Behavioral Problem, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Chronic Fatigue, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Domestic Violence (perp), Eating Disorders, Gambling, Gay/Lesbian, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Insomnia, Learning Disability, Manic Depression, Marriage Counseling, Minority Issues, Obesity/Weight Loss, OCD, Panic Attacks, Parenting, Personality Disorder, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Reactive Attachment, Religious/Spiritual Issues, Seasonal Affective Dis, Sexual Identity Issues, Social Anxiety, Social Skills Training, Substance Abuse, Substance Abuse Education, Victim of Sexual Abuse, Women's Issues, Young Adult Issues |

Jesen Daniel, MS, LPC

Areas of Interest Provides professional, confidential and accessible support to children, adolescents, couples, and families. Addresses varying mental, emotional, spiritual, and behavioral disorders. Supports individuals impacted with relationship, marriage, divorce, parenting, addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, and self-esteem issues. Special interest in integration of faith based Christian counseling in psychopathologies and crisis intervention. Effectively addresses varying multi-cultural, cross-cultural and intergenerational views. Education Masters Degree in Professional Counseling, Concordia University of Wisconsin Masters Degree in Sociology, University of Bombay, India Bachelors Degree in Economics and Sociology, University of Bombay, India Experience Counseling experience in various settings with individuals and groups, including working with special needs students in the school system, experience as a therapist with the correctional population with dually diagnosed adults. Jesen is client centered and has the ability to come along side and build lasting rapport with clients to provide continuity in care and clinical insight. **Please note Ms. Daniel treats patients 18 years & older.

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Adoption/Fostercare Issues, Anger Management, AODA Education, Autism/Aspergers, Childhood Behavioral Problem, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Codependency, Depression, Domestic Violence (perp), Eating Disorders, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Manic Depression, Marriage Counseling, Minority Issues, Obesity/Weight Loss, OCD, Panic Attacks, Parenting, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Pornography, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Reactive Attachment, Religious/Spiritual Issues, Sexual Identity Issues, Social Anxiety, Social Skills Training, Substance Abuse, Victim of Sexual Abuse, Women's Issues, Young Adult Issues |

James K. Giese, Ph.D.

Areas of Interest Research-based approaches to the treatment of adolescent drug and alcohol abuse; the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents and adults with depression and/or anxiety, academic and/or behavioral problems; and adults dealing with addictive behaviors such as, substance abuse, gambling, sexual and eating disorders. Education Ph.D., Counseling Psychology, Marquette University, 1998 M.S., Clinical Psychology, Marquette University, 1995 B.S., Psychology, UW Stevens Point, 1991 Experience Over twenty years of outpatient experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families from a variety of backgrounds with a broad range of problems. Ten years of research experience studying how various risk factors are related to the development of drug and alcohol abuse in adolescents. Personal Data Married with three children. Enjoys bike racing, rock climbing and hiking.

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Adoption/Fostercare Issues, Anger Management, AODA Education, Autism/Aspergers, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Behavioral Problem, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Chronic Fatigue, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Gambling, Gay/Lesbian, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Insomnia, Learning Disability, Manic Depression, Marriage Counseling, Men's Issues, Minority Issues, Obesity/Weight Loss, OCD, Panic Attacks, Parenting, Personality Disorder, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Pornography, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Reactive Attachment, Seasonal Affective Dis, Sexual Abuse Victim, Sexual Addiction, Sexual Identity Issues, Social Anxiety, Social Skills Training, Substance Abuse, Substance Abuse Education, Victim of Sexual Abuse, Young Adult Issues |

Kellyn Henke, MS, LPC

Areas of Interest Assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults through individual and family therapy.  Special interests include trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment, life transitions, school-related issues, social skills, relationship stressors, family dynamics, grief and loss, emotion dysregulation, self-esteem, and other life stressors. Utilizes therapeutic approaches that include person-centered, solution-focused, mindfulness, trauma-informed, cognitive-behavioral, and strength-based perspectives to foster a trusting and supportive environment.  Kellyn is a trained EMDR provider through the EMDR Institute.  Through these approaches we can work collaboratively on growing, healing, reflecting, and developing healthy coping strategies. Education Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire- 2011 Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Viterbo University- 2014 Certification in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)- 2020 Trained Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) provider- EMDR Institute- 2024 Experience Previous clinical experience includes providing individual and family therapy in home, school, and outpatient clinic settings, as well as facilitating groups for children and adolescents in a day treatment setting.  Specializes in trauma treatment for all ages.  Presented on topics including stress management, mindfulness, and meditation. *Note Ms. Henke sees clients ages 4 and older.

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Adoption/Fostercare Issues, Anger Management, AODA Education, Bipolar, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Behavioral Problem, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Insomnia, Manic Depression, OCD, ODD, Panic Attacks, Parenting, Personality Disorder, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Reactive Attachment, Schizophrenia, Seasonal Affective Dis, Sensory Processing, Social Anxiety, Social Skills Training, Substance Abuse Education, Uncategorized, Victim of Sexual Abuse, Women's Issues, Young Adult Issues |

Bridget Pogodzinski, MS, LMFT

Areas of Interest Bridget works with individuals, couples, and families(ages 12 and older) struggling with a variety of mental health concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, stress management, behavioral concerns, emotional/behavioral dysregulation, anger/aggression, impulse control, focus/concentration challenges, ADHD, OCD, interpersonal challenges, relationship/marital conflict, adjustment concerns, parenting, safety concerns, grief and loss, and trauma, including PTSD.  Bridget works with clients using an eclectic approach, drawing from CBT, DBT, Narrative, Interpersonal, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, Christian counseling, and Solution-Focused therapies amongst other therapeutic approaches. Philosophy Bridget views clients and their lives through a systemic lens and has a passion to work with clients and families from a place of deep empathy, excitement to collaborate and learn more about their unique strengths, remind them of their immense resiliency, and participate in their continued growth.  She works with clients through a strengths-based and holistic approach, taking into consideration all of the many aspects of life that make us who we are.  Bridget has a desire to walk with clients on their journeys through life, recognizing and emphasizing their unique strengths that will aid them in achieving the life, wellness, and fulfillment they desire within themselves and their relationships.  She desires to enhance the lives of clients by fostering hope and empowerment within themselves presently and for their futures. Education and Experience Bridget has been practicing therapy since June of 2020.  In 2019, she earned her BS in Family Social Science with a minor in Psychology from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  She completed her MS program in Marriage and Family Therapy at Edgewood College in Madison, Wisconsin May 2021. Bridget has experience providing therapy to individuals, couples and families in outpatient, group, school, Telehealth and intensive outpatient group settings.  She also has experience working with clients through a Christian counseling lens.  Presentation experience in school settings on topics of mental health, social media, and self esteem. Personal Outside of the clinic, Bridget enjoys exercise, specifically running, cooking, reading, and spending time with her family and friends, especially in nature. *Ms. Manke treats patients 12 & older.

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Adoption/Fostercare Issues, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Behavioral Problem, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Chronic Fatigue, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Eating Disorders, Gambling, Gay/Lesbian, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Insomnia, Manic Depression, Marriage Counseling, Men's Issues, Minority Issues, Obesity/Weight Loss, OCD, ODD, Panic Attacks, Parenting, Personality Disorder, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Pornography, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Reactive Attachment, Religious/Spiritual Issues, Schizophrenia, Seasonal Affective Dis, Sensory Processing, Sexual Abuse Victim, Sexual Identity Issues, Social Anxiety, Social Skills Training, Victim of Sexual Abuse, Women's Issues, Young Adult Issues |

Abby Runge, MSW, APSW

Approach I find relief in the fact that there is more than one way to become who we want to be.  Just as life offers us curve balls and pain, so does it offer us second chances and hope.  Mental health is something everyone has to work to maintain and I strongly believe that anyone who seeks help for their mental health-whether that is through therapy or other means-is brave. My aim is to lead with a warm and empathetic approach because I believe everyone has intrinsic worth and deserves to be heard.  I view therapy as a human-to-human, collaborative endeavor-clients add value to my life and I hope to add values to their lives.  I believe therapy should be catered to the needs and learning styles of clients and there is no one-size-fits-all-all approach. Areas of Interest Special interest include grief, depression, anxiety, boundary setting, and maintaining well-being and acceptance while living with chronic mental health struggles.  In addition, I am interested in working with anyone who identifies as a highly sensitive person (HSP). Education Master of Science in Social Work in 2023. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Bachelor of Science in Social Work and Psychology in 2017. Marian University, Fond du Lac Certification in Motivational Interviewing Fundamentals in 2017. Wisconsin Department of Health Services Experience Experienced mental health professional in various settings: inpatient care, correctional facilities, group homes, and non-profit organizations.  Administered Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to people with Autism. *Ms. Runge is willing to see people ages 5 and up.

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Adoption/Fostercare Issues, Anger Management, Anxiety, AODA Education, Autism/Aspergers, Bipolar, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Behavioral Problem, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Chronic Fatigue, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Domestic Violence (perp), Eating Disorders, Gambling, Gay/Lesbian, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Insomnia, Learning Disability, Manic Depression, Men's Issues, Minority Issues, Obesity/Weight Loss, OCD, ODD, Panic Attacks, Parenting, Personality Disorder, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Pornography, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Reactive Attachment, Religious/Spiritual Issues, Schizophrenia, Seasonal Affective Dis, Sensory Processing, Sexual Addiction, Sexual Identity Issues, Social Anxiety, Social Skills Training, Substance Abuse, Substance Abuse Education, Victim of Sexual Abuse, Women's Issues, Young Adult Issues |

Julia Truog, MS, LPC-IT

Areas of Interest I create a client-centered, strengths-based environment, implementing an eclectic approach drawing from multiple counseling theories, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and solution-focused interventions. Areas of interest include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, women’s issues, and identity exploration.  I value working with and advocating for those who hold marginalized identities.  I am particularly passionate about working with those who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Philosophy I believe that self-knowledge and empathy are the keys to wellbeing and flourishment.  I strive to create a therapeutic environment and relationship where clients feel comfortable reflecting upon their inner experiences and how those shape their reality.  I work with clients to foster self-exploration, insight and action, building a path towards healing, compassion and resiliency. Education Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marquette University Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Certificates in Environmental Studies and Education and Educational Services, University of Wisconsin-Madison Personal Information I enjoy spending time with friends, engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports, and attending concerts and other community events. *Note: Ms. Truog treats patients 10 & older.

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Adoption/Fostercare Issues, Anger Management, Anxiety, Autism/Aspergers, Bipolar, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Behavioral Problem, Codependency, Depression, Eating Disorders, Gambling, Gay/Lesbian, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Insomnia, Manic Depression, Minority Issues, Obesity/Weight Loss, OCD, Panic Attacks, Parenting, Personality Disorder, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Pornography, PTSD, Religious/Spiritual Issues, Seasonal Affective Dis, Sexual Addiction, Sexual Identity Issues, Social Anxiety, Social Skills Training, Substance Abuse, Substance Abuse Education, Victim of Sexual Abuse, Women's Issues, Young Adult Issues |

Tanya Wald, MS, ATR, LPC

Areas of Interest Treatment of children, adolescents and their families with school related problems and at risk behavior. Life transition issues including career changes, school to work and divorce. Interest in depression, anxiety and woman’s concerns. Special interest in using the process of art making to enhance the therapy experience. Education Bachelors Degree, Art/Minor in Psychology, Wisconsin Lutheran College, Milwaukee. Masters in Science in Art Therapy, Mount Mary College, Milwaukee. Experience Experienced therapist working with individuals and groups of all ages in various settings; schools, correctional facilities and community based non-profit organizations. *Note: Ms. Wald treats patients age 4 & older.

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Adoption/Fostercare Issues, Anger Management, Autism/Aspergers, Bipolar, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Behavioral Problem, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Codependency, Depression, Eating Disorders, Gay/Lesbian, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Learning Disability, Manic Depression, Marriage Counseling, OCD, Panic Attacks, Parenting, Personality Disorder, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Religious/Spiritual Issues, Seasonal Affective Dis, Social Anxiety, Social Skills Training, Victim of Sexual Abuse, Women's Issues, Young Adult Issues |