Category Archives: Chronic Pain

Ariana Anderson, MS, LPC

Areas of Interest Emphasizes a collaborative approach.  This allows clients to be active participants in the treatment process and fosters an environment where problems can be addressed holistically; examining the challenges as well as the influences that life experiences play in the assessment and treatment process.  The ultimate goal is to create a judgment-free, welcoming, respectful, honest and safe environment where clients can feel completely comfortable expressing their feelings and challenges without fear of judgment or condemnation. Operates from an evidence-based/solution-focused mindset and believes that clients are the true experts in their lives.  They are healthy, competent, resourceful, and have the ability and fortitude to foster the awareness and change they desire.  Through a collaborative effort, self-awareness, strength-identification, the development of healthy and effective coping skills, and goal achievement are fostered.  Moreover, mindfulness, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) modalities are utilized.  Special interests include anxiety, anger, depression, interpersonal effectiveness, and self-esteem. Education Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Capella University- 2021 Graduate Certification in Contemporary Theory in Mental Health Counseling, Capella University- 2019 Bachelors Degree in Psychology with a Minor in Sociology, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh -2017 Associates Degree, College of DuPage- 2015 Experience Experience emanates from an intensive and inclusive Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master’s Degree program, as well as providing both individual and couples counseling in a private practice setting.  Has worked with clients struggling with anxiety, anger, addiction, physical and mental abuse, depression, forgiveness, guilt and blame, self-esteem, bipolar disorder, sleep disturbances, OCD, and relationship/marriage problems. *Note: Ms. Anderson treats patients 12 & older.

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Behavioral Problem, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Domestic Violence (perp), Gambling, Gay/Lesbian, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Insomnia, Manic Depression, Marriage Counseling, Men's Issues, Minority Issues, Obesity/Weight Loss, OCD, Panic Attacks, Parenting, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Pornography, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, 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 |

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 |

Everest Brooks, MSW, LCSW, CSAC

Areas of Interest Assessment and treatment of clientele ages 13 to seniors.  Areas of interest include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders and working with the LGBTQ+ community.  I utilize a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral techniques and Motivational Interviewing in my approach to psychotherapy. Philosophy I am passionate about helping individuals maximize their potential to become their best self. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to promote healing and growth. Education Masters Degree in Social Work, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, December 2003 Bachelor of Arts Psychology and Sociology, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, May 2000 Experience Twenty years of clinical experience working in a variety of mental health settings including outpatient, inpatient and residential environments.  Background in working with both severe and persistent mental illness and substance use disorders providing individual, family and group psychotherapy. Licensed by the State of Wisconsin as a Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor.  Certified in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).

Posted in Adjustment to Divorce, Anxiety, AODA Education, Bipolar, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Behavioral Problem, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Chronic Fatigue, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, 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, Personality Disorder, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Pornography, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Religious/Spiritual Issues, Schizophrenia, Seasonal Affective Dis, Sexual Addiction, Social Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Substance Abuse Education, Victim of Sexual Abuse, 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 |

Craig Groskreutz, PsyD, LPC

Areas of Interest My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life of possibilities. While we can’t change the difficulties of the past, we can work together to create a future of hope. By applying a variety of therapy approaches and techniques, we can uncover together the behavior patterns or perceptions that may be weighing heavy on your mind. I take pride in the opportunity to work with late teen adolescents and adults. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through life’s challenges, or just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to help achieve your goals. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavior issues providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to grief counseling or parental support. Additionally, I have a special passion for working with individuals struggling with addiction issues. Even if life at work or at home is a general struggle for a variety of reasons, we can work on those areas of your life as well with a combination of therapy and various assessment tools to increase your confidence and understanding. I enjoy working with clients in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client’s individual needs. No two client’s story is the same, and I would take great pride in working with you to understand your story and your desires for change. Additional areas of specialized emphasis include: life stage changes (career, retirement, home life), adult ADHD, adult Autism, anger/emotional regulation, grief/loss, psychological testing, and individuals involved with the legal system. Education MS-Clinical Psychology, Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology, Milwaukee, WI BS-Psychology and Business Administration, Marian University, Fond du Lac, WI Pre-Doctoral Internship- Trinity Services, Inc. New Lenox, IL PsyD- Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology, Milwaukee, WI Experience My attention has been focused working with adolescents and adults with a wide variety of presenting concerns. Working in a residential and out-patient substance abuse treatment facility, community health settings, and private practice counseling and assessment, are just some of the areas that I can draw upon to assist each of my clients. *Note: Mr. Groskreutz treats patients 16 & older and currently sees clients on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays in the West Bend office and on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in the Hartford office. 

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Anger Management, Anxiety, AODA Education, Autism/Aspergers, Bipolar, Career/Work Issues, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Insomnia, Learning Disability, Manic Depression, Men's Issues, Panic Attacks, Personality Disorder, PTSD, Religious/Spiritual Issues, Schizophrenia, Sexual Identity Issues, Social Anxiety, Social Skills Training, Substance Abuse, Substance Abuse Education, 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 |

Abby Janssen, MSW, LCSW

Areas of Interest Abby works individually with adults and seniors on issues related to trauma, addiction, and major life changes, such as divorce and grief. She has a strong interest in how childhood trauma can affect health and well-being later in life. Abby is an EMDR Approved Consultant through EMDRIA and a Facilitator through the EMDR Institute, Inc.  She is also trained in Brainspotting through Brainspotting International.  She works to provide a strength-based approach that collaboratively works with the client’s goals and values. Education Masters in Social Work, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee; additional coursework in substance abuse and trauma. Bachelors Degree in Professional Communication, Alverno College, Milwaukee. Experience Clinical experience in outpatient settings providing treatment for mental health, substance abuse, and dual-diagnosis clients.  Additional experience providing in-home therapy, treatment in an assisted living setting and working with individuals with developmental disabilities.  Abby has also served as an adjunct instructor in the Social Work department at Alverno College, Milwaukee. Presented to groups on grief and loss, older adult anxiety and depression, transitioning into long-term care, and AODA issues. *Note: Ms. Janssen treats patients age 18 & older.

Posted in Adjustment to Divorce, AODA Education, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Gambling, Gay/Lesbian, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Obesity/Weight Loss, Panic Attacks, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Religious/Spiritual Issues, Seasonal Affective Dis, Sexual Identity Issues, Social Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Substance Abuse Education, Victim of Sexual Abuse, Women's Issues |

Rajesh Kumar, MD

Board Certified Psychiatrist, Medical Director-ACS Areas of Interest Dr. Kumar has been treating patients of all ages in Washington County since he started his practice. He enjoys working with families and emphasizes out-patient care to prevent expensive hospitalizations. He likes collaborative work with mental health therapists and family physicians in our community. Dr. Kumar has expertise in hard to treat mood, anxiety disorders and attention deficit disorders. He also provides treatment for substance dependence such as alcohol and opiate dependence. Education Graduate education: Osmania Medical College- Hyderabad, India Psychiatry Residency Training: University of Wisconsin-Sinai Samaritan Medical Center Licensed by State of Wisconsin Board Certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Member of Wisconsin State Medical Society and President of Washington County Medical Society 2009-2010 Experience Private practice since 1993 in Washington County at Hartford and West Bend office locations. Consultant at Waukesha County Health and Human Services – caring for chronic mental illnesses and developmentally disabled individuals. Consultant at Aurora Medical Center-Hartford and Community Memorial Hospital-Menomonee Falls.

Posted in ADHD, Anger Management, Chronic Fatigue, Chronic Pain, Depression, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Insomnia, Manic Depression, Medication Management, Obesity/Weight Loss, OCD, Panic Attacks, Personality Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Seasonal Affective Dis, Social Anxiety, Social Skills Training, Substance Abuse, Victim of Sexual Abuse |

Jessica Murphy, AGACNP, APNP

Areas of Interest Jessica treats patients 16 and older, providing assessment, psychoeducation, with an emphasis on pharmacological management of adolescents and adults seeking psychiatric services.  Special interest include mood disorders, substance use disorder, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Philosophy I am passionate about providing a patient centered, judgement-free, safe space to assist patients navigate through life’s changes.  I believe that we work as a team to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your life goals. Education University Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Registered Nurse University of Cincinnati, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner University of Cincinnati, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Experience I worked as a primary care nurse practitioner with an emphasis on mental health for ten years prior to joining ACS.  I saw firsthand how closely mental and physical health are intertwined.  I believe this experience provides a unique perspective to help improve your mental health. *Ms. Murphy sees clients ages 16 & older.

Posted in ADHD, Adjustment to Divorce, Anger Management, Anxiety, AODA Education, Bipolar, Career/Work Issues, Childhood Sexual Abuse, Chronic Fatigue, Chronic Pain, Codependency, Depression, Domestic Violence (perp), Eating Disorders, Gambling, Gay/Lesbian, General Anxiety, Grief and Loss, Insomnia, Manic Depression, Medication Management, Men's Issues, Minority Issues, Obesity/Weight Loss, OCD, ODD, Panic Attacks, Parenting, Personality Disorder, Physical Abuse or Neglect, Postpartum Depression, PTSD, Religious/Spiritual Issues, Schizophrenia, Seasonal Affective Dis, Sex Offender, Sexual Abuse Victim, Sexual Identity Issues, Social Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Victim of Sexual Abuse, Women's 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 |