Founded in 1881 when the railway selected the area, Altoona was not incorporated as a small town until 1887 and although they have grown, the community strives to keep the small-town atmosphere. Bordered by the Altoona River and Otter Creek, Altoona has become a favorite recreational area for many.
Whether you are a lifelong resident or are new to Altoona, you are welcomed here with open arms and this includes the health care providers. In fact, the Altoona area has some of the best mental health providers as well. If you have any kind of mental or emotional concerns, talk to one of the counselors in the Altoona area for help.
Laura Placek
I am a board certified and dual licensed counselor, providing over 20 years of Forensic, Behavioral, and Addiction counseling services. I believe in motivating and encouraging awareness through respect, integrity and a person centered and strength-based approach. I meet you where you are in life. My goal is to help you to identify paths to achieve personal goals, recovery, and regain life balance. I offer a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with an interactive conversational style. My philosophies are rooted in cognitive behavioral and solution focused approaches. I hold multiple specialty training and certifications to treat OCD, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, anger management, domestic violence, sexual disorders/ offending, behavioral, coping and assertive skill building. I applaud and welcome you on your path toward health and wellness and I look forward to working with you.
Dr. Angela Legner
Dr. Angela Legner, Psy.D., LPC, is an experienced psychotherapist with advanced training in brief, evidence-based treatment approaches. She completed specialty postdoctoral training in Health Psychology (e.g. chronic pain, diabetes, mood disorders, obesity, sleep, stress, smoking cessation) and has two years experience working with individuals with Multiple Sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and Traumatic Brain Injury. She has advanced training and experience in treating anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive, Panic, Phobias, as well as Posttraumatic Stress utilizing primarily Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness with a culturally diverse population of adults. She is client-centered, integrative, and focused on empowering clients with education on the biological, psychological, environmental and social factors that may be contributing to problems, as well as providing practical skills to assist clients in improving their overall quality of life. She enjoys working with both individuals and couples, particularly Military, Veterans and their families, and strives to achieve an open, genuine, judgment-free space for all clients to address their needs and desired goals.
Nicole Lewandowski
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin with over 20 years of experience working as a social worker and therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, Autism Spectrum, OCD, 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, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client centered, narrative, dialectical behavior, solution focused and trauma focused. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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!
Donna Altepeter
I am a 1983 graduate of St. Louis University's MSW program with a concentration in community mental health. I am a female therapist who utilizes a client centered approach with a skill base of cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I have broad experiences in life threatening illness, bereavement and loss, life transitions along with knowledge and skill base with anxiety and depression. I enjoy working with people of all ages and experiences and believe in the person's ability to change. I have been practicing since 1983 and have long life and professional experience, and am interested in partnering with you in your growth. With 20 plus years of teaching experience at the University of Wisconsin , Social Work program, my approach is one of teaching and learning, collaboratively. I believe I can learn as much from my clients as I have to teach them. Because I believe that the client is their own best expert, my approach in therapy is one of learning collaboratively about the you. Therapy is a partnership in discovery, growth and wellness and I am honored to be a part of your journey.
Dr. Ryan Knutson
Thanks for taking a moment to read about me. I am licensed in Wisconsin with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have a bachelor's degree in psychology, a master's degree in mental health counseling, and a doctorate in counselor education and supervision. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC), and Independent Clinical Supervisor (ICS). I've worked in a variety of clinical settings including correctional, outpatient, group homes, and volunteered as a counselor at the Salvation Army. Besides being a licensed counselor for over 10 years, I have been a supervisor for over 7 years, and was an adjunct instructor for a graduate counseling program. I have been working on Betterhelp since 2022. My theoretical foundation consists of cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered, motivational interviewing, and strength-based approaches. However, I utilize what is the best fit for the individual and enjoy making adjustments to meet different individual needs. I believe 'good' therapy shouldn't feel like therapy and should feel more like a helpful conversation. I've had an interesting life that led me to be a counselor. These experiences provide me motivation to help others and a dedication to the counseling profession. I absolutely love helping people and would be honored to provide any support to those in need.
Ash Rotonto
Hi, I'm Ash! I'm a licensed counselor & art therapist in Wisconsin with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, & relationship issues. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Cindy Fonseca
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona and Wisconsin. I also hold accreditation as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin. l have over 30 years of combined professional experience in the social work and therapeutic counseling fields. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, unresolved trauma, relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self-esteem and confidence. I am specialized bilingually in working with populations who speak English and/or Spanish, with my native language being English. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming issues that may challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life! I am here to support & empower you in your journey as you take the first steps toward change.
Stacie Nagorski
I am licensed in Wisconsin with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & 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. 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.
Courtney Stack
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Wisconsin. I have been working as a therapist for about 7 years. Helping others has become my greatest passion. My belief is that each individual can become the best version of themselves if given the proper tools and a support system. I use practices such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and experiential techniques combined with a Person-Centered approach in order to help my clients reach their full potential. In my opinion, the most important part of the therapeutic process is the partnership between a client and their therapist. My goal is to provide a safe atmosphere where my clients are able to express themselves and build upon their unique strengths and overcome their challenges.
Kathryn Condon
I am licensed in Wisconsin with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Linda Skoug
I am licensed in Wisconsin with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. I have worked with sex offenders and victims of sexual abuse. One issue I am passionate about is how Food and eating are related to mental health. I am currently working on a certification regarding this. 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 am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Heather Heritage
I am licensed in Wisconsin with 7 years of professional work experience. Along with 15 years working in Human Services. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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.
Dr. Ronald Holder
I have over a decade of experience in the mental health field which includes training and supervision in a variety of settings. At the Eating Disorder Center at San Antonio (EDCASA) and the Esperanza Eating Disorders Center, I worked as the director of the Binge Eating Disorder Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). I also worked in the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) at EDCASA working with a wide variety of amazing clients who had varying degrees of disordered eating, severe mood or symptoms consistent with complex personality disorders. I am dedicated to assisting each of my clients find their own path, the path that leads to hope and the ability to access inner-resilience. I absolutely believe that we all have the answers to solve problems and become "un-stuck" in life. As a professional counselor, I know that a collaborative relationship between a therapist and a client is absolutely essential. My experience includes extensive experience in the areas of: LGBTQ issues, eating disorders, personality disorders, clinical depression, anxiety, OCD, complex trauma and addiction. Along with Solution-Focused Therapy, I have intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy. I believe in the power of guided imagery meditation and mindfulness as tools of maintaining optimal psychological health. The human spirit is indestructible in the face of seemingly insurmountable trauma and difficulty and I can help clients find the power and hope to keep fighting. I look forward to working with you.
Kathy Branning
I am licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Heather Talley
I am licensed in Wisconsin with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Altoona
Finding the best therapist close by in Altoona 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 with therapists in Altoona that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Altoona. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Altoona, 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 for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Altoona region and in the state of Wisconsin. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health professional working through their own in-person therapy practice in Altoona or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Altoona area offering:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Altoona, elsewhere in Eau Claire, or in the greater state of Wisconsin. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Altoona area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Altoona therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Altoona due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 clinician: $100
While many psychologists in Altoona 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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).
Read more about this cost of therapy question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How is a licensed therapist on this Altoona online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Altoona, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Altoona psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
Read more about this therapist license question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Altoona 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 for in person sessions.
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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.
Read more about this therapy tips question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified 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.
Our specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression therapy
- Anxiety disorders counselor
- Stress therapy
- Eating disorder therapist
- Grief therapy
- Attachment therapy
- Relationship therapy
- Children, adolescents, and teen therapy
- Addiction (substance abuse) therapy
- Divorce therapy
- Trauma or PTSD therapy
- Bipolar disorder therapy
- Psychodynamic treatment with a counselor
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders therapist
- OCD counselor
- ADHD therapy
- Mood disorders therapy
- Sex addiction therapist
- Complex trauma therapy
- Life transition therapy
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 Altoona provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
Read more about this psychotherapist question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Altoona?
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.
Therapists 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 Altoona 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 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 psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in WI, therapists 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 54720 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists around or in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
Read more about this family therapy question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Altoona counselor?
Before seeing your therapist near you, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Altoona therapists near you may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn how to best help and support you.
Read more about this first therapy session question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Altoona 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 with a Altoona counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.
Read more about this do I need therapy question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor 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. An experienced clinician 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 therapist 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 licensed clinician in Altoona, 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.
Altoona has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 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 during telehealth appointments?
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 for Altoona, Wisconsin
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Altoona therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to BetterHelp or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service 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.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Psychologist therapy services offered to clients in the below Wisconsin zip codes by BetterHelp therapists in Altoona at an affordable cost:
54720
Start therapy with a therapist Altoona provides to your location.
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