Onalaska has some of the best recreational places in the country including the Great River Landing, Rowe Park, Van Riper Park, Lost Island Winery, Lake Onalaska, and the Great River Trail, which is a 24-mile trail that runs alongside the Mississippi River. This is a great place to get some exercise, which is excellent for both your physical and mental health. 

The City of Onalaska also has some of the top mental health experts in Wisconsin and they are available in person or online anytime. If you or someone you love has a mental illness, it is important to get treatment so contact one of the Onalaska counselors right away. 

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Dale Barrett

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Onalaska
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LCPC, LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

Let's move forward together! Sometimes we feel our life is out of control and the first thing we need to do is to identify how and why. Once we can identify how we feel our life is out of control, we can work on the why. Now we can begin to identify what we want our life to be and what we need to do to move forward toward our goals. We will work as a team and I will provide a safe, secure and non-judgemental environment for you to share and explore your world in order to develop goals and a plan to move forward. I have over thirty years of experience and am licensed in Illinois as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor(LCPC), Texas as a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor(LPC-S), and Wisconsin as a Licensed Professional Counselor(LPC). Everyone is unique and the therapy must be tailored to fit the individual. I have experience working with anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, forgiveness, grief, trauma and abuse, psychosis, life transitions and addictions. Clinical Approaches: Client-Centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Reflective and Reframing

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Tiffany Wilhelm

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Onalaska
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a board certified, licensed professional counselor, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with a total of 14 years of professional work experience in the mental health field. I worked in a variety of non-profit roles, including responding to mental health crisis situations for youth within the Milwaukee community and facilitated psycho-education groups ranging from sex education, anger management, sexual exploitation prevention to cognitive behavioral groups for depression. I have held leadership positions within non-profits, training and supervising programs for crisis response, commercial sexual exploitation of children mentoring and crisis prevention, and protective placements for adults who are vulnerable due to their disabilities. I work administratively in residential treatment, supervising and utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have years of experience doing counseling out of outpatient clinics and within I have 8 years of professional counseling experience. My experiences in helping individuals ranges with trauma, substance use, co-occurring disorders, stress and anxiety, anger management, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I became interested in counseling because I believe in the power of healing through engaging relationships and the importance of having feedback from someone else who is skillful to help support and guide one's path for a healthier, happier life. I incorporate these beliefs in my work with my individuals to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I utilize, teach and support mindfulness practice to be present with individuals, empathize in their suffering and guide them through difficult experiences. I believe you are the expert on you, and empowering you to be assertive. It's my role to help you meet the goals you have set for yourself. Therapy is an incredibly rewarding experience, and yet it is very difficult. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! When you are ready, its a journey we can experience together.

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Amy Saarnio Wyka

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Onalaska
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,LMSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin and Michigan with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma, parenting issues, & 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 sign-up for therapy can take courage and you are getting started on taking charge of your life!

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Mary Allen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Onalaska
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

Hi, I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in both Wisconsin and California for 27+ years. I have worked with clients having a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, OCD and ADHD, military life, discrimination/bullying, emotional and physical abuse/trauma, PTSD, responder issues, parenting problems, and, grief. My counseling style is direct, warm, compassionate, goal focused, and, interactive. The "fit" has to feel right for the client or their goals will not be realized. My approach combines several evidenced-based approaches some of which include cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, humanistic, and rational-emotive. You will set the goals and together we will explore the treatment approach that will meet your specific and unique needs. You've made that difficult first step-reaching out. Congratulations-that's not easy! I look forward to working with, supporting and empowering you!

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Laura Lininger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Onalaska
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
31 years of experience

Hello! My name is Laura Lininger, LCSW. I attended Indiana University and got my BA in Psychology and then moved on to Tulane University in NOLA for my Masters in Social Work. I have worked for many years doing child and adolescent therapy and then later added working with adults to the services I provide. I believe my child and adolescent therapy background has been a great foundation for working with adults who are dealing with childhood trauma or family of origin issues. As for treatment approaches, I use Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. I also include a lot of mindfulness practice in my work with clients. I am proud to provide a safe environment for all races, genders, religions, and clients from the LGBTQ community.

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Susan Blanchard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Onalaska
LGBTRelationship issuesGriefDepressionADHD
4 years of experience

Hi there! I'm Susan and I am licensed in Texas and Wisconsin with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Elena Fosness

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Onalaska
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

Hello! I am licensed Family and Marriage therapist in states of Minnesota and Wisconsin with 10 years' experience in mental health field. I have worked with individuals and groups, adults and adolescents, in residential setting and outpatient, in the office and via Telehealth. I am helping clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma/PTSD, teen problems and personal growth. In my practice I use multiple approaches, such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) technics. Please take that next step and reach out to me. Together we will determine your goals and make a plan for the future. I look forward to beginning our work together.

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Penny Collins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Onalaska
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Arizona and Wisconsin with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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.

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This is Deborah Thoennes's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah Thoennes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Onalaska
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 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.

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This is Jennifer Lila's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Lila

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WI, Onalaska
AddictionsTrauma and abuseEating disordersAnger managementDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 9 years of professional experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I specialize in a wide range of areas, including anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, veterans, substance use, and self-esteem issues. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where my clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings, and where they can develop the skills and tools, they need to thrive rather than just survive. I use a person-centered approach, understanding that each individuals needs are different.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Onalaska

Finding the best therapist close by in Onalaska 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 Onalaska 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 Onalaska. 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 Onalaska, 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 clinical psychologist 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 Onalaska 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 counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Onalaska 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 therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Onalaska therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Onalaska 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 Onalaska, elsewhere in La Crosse, 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 Onalaska 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 Onalaska 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 Onalaska 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 psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Onalaska 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 therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Onalaska online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Onalaska, 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 in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Onalaska psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists 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 Onalaska above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy 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.

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 therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Onalaska provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Onalaska?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Onalaska 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 and therapists 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 Onalaska 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 Onalaska 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 or therapists 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 54650 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 in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Onalaska counselor?

Before seeing your Onalaska therapist, 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. Onalaska therapists here 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 why you're attending therapy.

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 Onalaska 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 Onalaska 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.

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. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health 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 psychologist in Onalaska, 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.

Onalaska 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 therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions 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 Onalaska, 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 Onalaska therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out 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.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Onalaska.

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

54650

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