Psychodynamic Therapists in Wauwatosa, WI

Photo of Melissa Kraemer Smothers, PhD, Psychologist
Melissa Kraemer Smothers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
I approach therapy with the belief that the individual is more than the difficulties they are currently experiencing. I evaluate what clients want out of therapy, what meaning they make of their current difficulties and how these concerns manifest themselves. I work in a collaborative, strengths-based manner. I understand the desire for immediate relief of the difficulties that brings someone to therapy, while also bringing an openness to exploring the factors that contributed to the development of these difficulties. My approach is predominately psychodynamic, drawing from relational, systems, and gender-sensitive approaches.
I approach therapy with the belief that the individual is more than the difficulties they are currently experiencing. I evaluate what clients want out of therapy, what meaning they make of their current difficulties and how these concerns manifest themselves. I work in a collaborative, strengths-based manner. I understand the desire for immediate relief of the difficulties that brings someone to therapy, while also bringing an openness to exploring the factors that contributed to the development of these difficulties. My approach is predominately psychodynamic, drawing from relational, systems, and gender-sensitive approaches.
(414) 622-1476 View (414) 622-1476
Photo of  - Associated Mental Health Consultants, Licensed Professional Counselor
Associated Mental Health Consultants
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Associated Mental Health Consultants has been serving the Milwaukee area for 20+ years. Our staff provides psychiatric services, individual, couple, and family therapy for a wide range of issues.
Associated Mental Health Consultants has been serving the Milwaukee area for 20+ years. Our staff provides psychiatric services, individual, couple, and family therapy for a wide range of issues.
(414) 369-2918 View (414) 369-2918
Photo of Brad Brown, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Brad Brown
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53222
Using a person-centered approach, I seek to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for individuals to share their struggles and celebrate their strengths.
Using a person-centered approach, I seek to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for individuals to share their struggles and celebrate their strengths.
(414) 404-9977 View (414) 404-9977
Photo of Kara Williams, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Kara Williams
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Taking the first step towards change can be an immense sign of growth and strength. I am a therapist dedicated to providing guidance and a collaborative environment for individuals seeking meaningful change. I come from a trauma-informed background and have had experience working with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, and systemic issues. I approach therapy as a working relationship where we create a safe and comfortable space for individuals to feel seen, heard, and valued.
Taking the first step towards change can be an immense sign of growth and strength. I am a therapist dedicated to providing guidance and a collaborative environment for individuals seeking meaningful change. I come from a trauma-informed background and have had experience working with anxiety, depression, domestic violence, and systemic issues. I approach therapy as a working relationship where we create a safe and comfortable space for individuals to feel seen, heard, and valued.
(414) 441-5284 View (414) 441-5284
Photo of Erika Wagner-Martin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Wagner-Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53213  (Online Only)
My approach to helping you improve your life will be compassionate and insight-oriented. I believe that humor helps healing and that you are your own best expert. ​ I truly enjoy helping individuals who feel like they don't fit in one way or another. I also really enjoy helping people know their worth. Currently, as my practice is 100% Telehealth (video sessions), my clients are age 16 & older.
My approach to helping you improve your life will be compassionate and insight-oriented. I believe that humor helps healing and that you are your own best expert. ​ I truly enjoy helping individuals who feel like they don't fit in one way or another. I also really enjoy helping people know their worth. Currently, as my practice is 100% Telehealth (video sessions), my clients are age 16 & older.
(414) 404-6149 View (414) 404-6149
Photo of Carli Gurholt, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Carli Gurholt
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
I am a psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and families experiencing a variety of concerns including acute and complex trauma, relationship and interpersonal difficulties, coping with chronic and terminal illness, and intimacy, identity, and sexuality. I also have an interest in working with folks in the medical and mental health fields, including doctors, residents, students, and therapists/counselors. Our time together will allow you to know yourself better and lead to change, whether you are seeking immediate symptom relief or longer-term transformation.
I am a psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and families experiencing a variety of concerns including acute and complex trauma, relationship and interpersonal difficulties, coping with chronic and terminal illness, and intimacy, identity, and sexuality. I also have an interest in working with folks in the medical and mental health fields, including doctors, residents, students, and therapists/counselors. Our time together will allow you to know yourself better and lead to change, whether you are seeking immediate symptom relief or longer-term transformation.
(262) 846-5148 View (262) 846-5148
Photo of Neena B Florsheim, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neena B Florsheim
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Dr. Neena Florsheim and Dr. Bernard O'Connell provide concierge consultation to their clientele. Our colleagues accept most insurance plans. For 31 years we've designed programs for students planning careers in medicine, engineering, law, pharmacy, technology, research, science and education. Our Portfolio Program is a comprehensive advising system for students throughout high school until they depart for university studies. It covers high school course selection, standardized testing and timetable, preparation for college visits and interviews, final college/university choice, types of aid and assistance seeking financing, and "goodness of fit" in college selection. Services include SAT, SATII and ACT test preparation.
Dr. Neena Florsheim and Dr. Bernard O'Connell provide concierge consultation to their clientele. Our colleagues accept most insurance plans. For 31 years we've designed programs for students planning careers in medicine, engineering, law, pharmacy, technology, research, science and education. Our Portfolio Program is a comprehensive advising system for students throughout high school until they depart for university studies. It covers high school course selection, standardized testing and timetable, preparation for college visits and interviews, final college/university choice, types of aid and assistance seeking financing, and "goodness of fit" in college selection. Services include SAT, SATII and ACT test preparation.
(262) 221-9041 View (262) 221-9041
Photo of Natalia Ottesen, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalia Ottesen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
If you suspect that your present life is being affected by your past adverse experiences, you are not alone. If you feel that it is time for you to have a trained professional to help you with your healing journey, I will be honored to offer you my knowledge and experience. I help people feel more integrated and whole after surviving trauma, so that they can live to their fullest potential.
If you suspect that your present life is being affected by your past adverse experiences, you are not alone. If you feel that it is time for you to have a trained professional to help you with your healing journey, I will be honored to offer you my knowledge and experience. I help people feel more integrated and whole after surviving trauma, so that they can live to their fullest potential.
(262) 205-6989 View (262) 205-6989
Photo of Bernadette Mullins Miller - Bernadette Mullins Miller, LLC, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bernadette Mullins Miller, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
My intentions are simple. I work to create the type of therapeutic relationship that clients will need to do the exploring, processing and growing that psychotherapy allows. I've always considered it a great privilege to be allowed into client's lives, and are consistently in awe of one's ability to grow and heal.
My intentions are simple. I work to create the type of therapeutic relationship that clients will need to do the exploring, processing and growing that psychotherapy allows. I've always considered it a great privilege to be allowed into client's lives, and are consistently in awe of one's ability to grow and heal.
(414) 600-1374 View (414) 600-1374
Photo of Cara Haynes, PsyD, Psychologist
Cara Haynes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Therapy is a great tool to use during difficult times, and I honor the courage it takes to start. For many, pursuing therapy is an important step on an ongoing journey of self-knowledge, healing, and growth. I help clients feel more empowered by learning about themselves, developing new ways to cope through personal challenges, and finding confidence to navigate future hardships independently with the knowledge and skills we build together. My approach to therapy is highly collaborative and patient centered. Working together we determine your goals and the best treatment approach for your specific needs.
Therapy is a great tool to use during difficult times, and I honor the courage it takes to start. For many, pursuing therapy is an important step on an ongoing journey of self-knowledge, healing, and growth. I help clients feel more empowered by learning about themselves, developing new ways to cope through personal challenges, and finding confidence to navigate future hardships independently with the knowledge and skills we build together. My approach to therapy is highly collaborative and patient centered. Working together we determine your goals and the best treatment approach for your specific needs.
(262) 747-0761 View (262) 747-0761
Photo of Thea Hunter, LPC, CSAC, CSIT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thea Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, CSIT
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226  (Online Only)
I believe anyone can have the life they want. I specialize in an eclectic array of psychotherapies including trauma therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and addictions counseling. Therapy should be collaborative, so we will start with visualizing what "thriving" means to you. This includes treatment of psychological diagnoses, but also linkage to resources, coaching, family counseling, conflict resolution and EMDR, so that you receive well rounded, holistic treatment. I believe that you have the power to decide how the rest of your life goes. Anyone can make changes in order to heal old wounds.
I believe anyone can have the life they want. I specialize in an eclectic array of psychotherapies including trauma therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and addictions counseling. Therapy should be collaborative, so we will start with visualizing what "thriving" means to you. This includes treatment of psychological diagnoses, but also linkage to resources, coaching, family counseling, conflict resolution and EMDR, so that you receive well rounded, holistic treatment. I believe that you have the power to decide how the rest of your life goes. Anyone can make changes in order to heal old wounds.
(414) 404-9713 View (414) 404-9713
Photo of Cara Haynes, PsyD, Psychologist
Cara Haynes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Therapy is a great tool to use during difficult times, and I honor the courage it takes to start. For many, pursuing therapy is an important step on an ongoing journey of self-knowledge, healing, and growth. I help clients feel more empowered by learning about themselves, developing new ways to cope through personal challenges, and finding confidence to navigate future hardships independently with the knowledge and skills we build together. My approach to therapy is highly collaborative and patient centered. Working together we determine your goals and the best treatment approach for your specific needs.
Therapy is a great tool to use during difficult times, and I honor the courage it takes to start. For many, pursuing therapy is an important step on an ongoing journey of self-knowledge, healing, and growth. I help clients feel more empowered by learning about themselves, developing new ways to cope through personal challenges, and finding confidence to navigate future hardships independently with the knowledge and skills we build together. My approach to therapy is highly collaborative and patient centered. Working together we determine your goals and the best treatment approach for your specific needs.
(262) 846-5986 View (262) 846-5986
Photo of Krista Shabtaie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krista Shabtaie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Choosing to begin therapy is a brave decision. My supportive and empathic nature will help you to navigate the struggles you may be facing in your family or other relationships, work, school, health or any other area of life, as well as develop solutions to unique and everyday problems. As a therapist, I utilize a collaborative and flexible approach to ensure you are an active part of the process. I believe that humor and lightheartedness are vital in our work together. I specialize in working with prenatal/postpartum mental health issues, mood/anxiety disorders, life transitions, and trauma.
Choosing to begin therapy is a brave decision. My supportive and empathic nature will help you to navigate the struggles you may be facing in your family or other relationships, work, school, health or any other area of life, as well as develop solutions to unique and everyday problems. As a therapist, I utilize a collaborative and flexible approach to ensure you are an active part of the process. I believe that humor and lightheartedness are vital in our work together. I specialize in working with prenatal/postpartum mental health issues, mood/anxiety disorders, life transitions, and trauma.
(262) 239-4150 View (262) 239-4150
Photo of Tara Magaw, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Magaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression or a challenging relationship that affects your day to day life and overall happiness? Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted and unsure of your next step? Do you wonder if life could be better? Sometimes, we need additional support to figure out how to make a change in a positive direction. My priority is to provide a comfortable and safe place for you to feel heard when talking about your personal issues. I am down to earth, real and understanding.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression or a challenging relationship that affects your day to day life and overall happiness? Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted and unsure of your next step? Do you wonder if life could be better? Sometimes, we need additional support to figure out how to make a change in a positive direction. My priority is to provide a comfortable and safe place for you to feel heard when talking about your personal issues. I am down to earth, real and understanding.
(262) 355-4588 View (262) 355-4588
Photo of Meagan Langfield, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meagan Langfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
It is really hard being a parent and caretaker of a young child. As a licensed professional counselor who specializes in work with babies, toddlers, children and their caregivers, I can help. I’m a strong advocate for infant mental health and have extensive knowledge and training to focus on caregiver attachment and relationships to heal trauma.
It is really hard being a parent and caretaker of a young child. As a licensed professional counselor who specializes in work with babies, toddlers, children and their caregivers, I can help. I’m a strong advocate for infant mental health and have extensive knowledge and training to focus on caregiver attachment and relationships to heal trauma.
(414) 877-7028 View (414) 877-7028
Photo of Vanessa Sager, Psychologist
Vanessa Sager
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
EMAIL is best way to reach us.+ We excitedly announce that our providers are now proudly in network with Forward Health Plans also known as Title 19, T19, Badgercare, Badgercare Plus, and Medicaid. In addition, we see most patients who carry marketplace plans such as CCHP, Chorus Community Health Plans, and more. If you are looking for a safe place to process matters such as depression, anxiety, life events, stress or specific goals, we would be excited to discuss more. Life may not be feeling as though it is going in directions you intend, there may be more bad days than good.
EMAIL is best way to reach us.+ We excitedly announce that our providers are now proudly in network with Forward Health Plans also known as Title 19, T19, Badgercare, Badgercare Plus, and Medicaid. In addition, we see most patients who carry marketplace plans such as CCHP, Chorus Community Health Plans, and more. If you are looking for a safe place to process matters such as depression, anxiety, life events, stress or specific goals, we would be excited to discuss more. Life may not be feeling as though it is going in directions you intend, there may be more bad days than good.
(262) 439-0410 View (262) 439-0410
Photo of Wayne William Harder - Psychological Associates, PhD, Psychologist
Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
I am dedicated to the preservation of the family and eclectic in my approach to treatment, working to help families and individuals return to normalcy through individual, family and marital therapy. I believe in doing a comprehensive initial evaluation in order to best identify sources of emotional distress as well as psychological issues in play which may be interfering with the individual's optimal functioning.
I am dedicated to the preservation of the family and eclectic in my approach to treatment, working to help families and individuals return to normalcy through individual, family and marital therapy. I believe in doing a comprehensive initial evaluation in order to best identify sources of emotional distress as well as psychological issues in play which may be interfering with the individual's optimal functioning.
(414) 622-1745 x1 View (414) 622-1745 x1
Photo of Laura L Pauly, PhD, Psychologist
Laura L Pauly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
With a caring interactive approach I help clients unhook from past emotional habit patterns to create more fulfilling relationships and a happier life. --Through a greater sense of self-awareness, release of past pain, and application of technique, clients can: *Overcome depression, anxiety and low self esteem to express greater confidence and creativity *Reduce anger and conflict to improve communication and build stronger relationships. *Heal past issues, fears, hurts, and mistrust to achieve true intimacy and commitment.
With a caring interactive approach I help clients unhook from past emotional habit patterns to create more fulfilling relationships and a happier life. --Through a greater sense of self-awareness, release of past pain, and application of technique, clients can: *Overcome depression, anxiety and low self esteem to express greater confidence and creativity *Reduce anger and conflict to improve communication and build stronger relationships. *Heal past issues, fears, hurts, and mistrust to achieve true intimacy and commitment.
(262) 423-4091 View (262) 423-4091
Photo of Stephany Pruitt - Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC, MS, THD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, THD, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53225
"Hope motivates Change." Careful Balance of evidenced-based therapy's, holistic approaches, and spirituality, in ways that offer more optimal recovery and functioning. Treating the whole person rather than just symptom relief. Person Centered, Recovery-Orientated Care. Helping to build on strengths, resilience, and manage recovery. Help to provide wellness skills that encourage relapse prevention and re-build social skills where possible. Some approaches include trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, Rogerian, Stages of Change, Motivational Interveiwing and natural alternatives-when and where possible.
"Hope motivates Change." Careful Balance of evidenced-based therapy's, holistic approaches, and spirituality, in ways that offer more optimal recovery and functioning. Treating the whole person rather than just symptom relief. Person Centered, Recovery-Orientated Care. Helping to build on strengths, resilience, and manage recovery. Help to provide wellness skills that encourage relapse prevention and re-build social skills where possible. Some approaches include trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, Rogerian, Stages of Change, Motivational Interveiwing and natural alternatives-when and where possible.
(414) 246-5345 View (414) 246-5345
Photo of Diana Dietzman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Dietzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53210
"Your vision will become clear when you look into your heart, who looks outside dreams, who looks inside awakens", Carl Jung. Temenos means sacred space and Sand Play Therapy is about the individual's free and protective space. Temenos Counseling Services can provide a free and protective sacred space to heal the trauma and awaken the vision within yourself.
"Your vision will become clear when you look into your heart, who looks outside dreams, who looks inside awakens", Carl Jung. Temenos means sacred space and Sand Play Therapy is about the individual's free and protective space. Temenos Counseling Services can provide a free and protective sacred space to heal the trauma and awaken the vision within yourself.
(414) 292-9488 View (414) 292-9488
1
Psychodynamic Therapists

Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?

Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.

How long does psychodynamic therapy last?

Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.

Does psychodynamic therapy work?

Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.

What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?

Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.