Positive Psychology Therapists in Milwaukee, WI

Sue Bruckner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53207
As a licensed professional counselor (LPC) & relationship coach, I blend growth mindset, positive psychology, and trauma-informed practices with deep empathy.
My ideal clients are sensitive, deeply feeling women navigating life transitions - whether general life changes (therapy) or specifically divorce (coaching). They know they're capable of more than just surviving—they sense the potential for profound personal growth, even as they feel everything more intensely than others might. They want to move beyond overthinking and overwhelm, establish stronger boundaries, & create more meaningful relationships. Often, they find themselves questioning their choices, processing emotions deeply, & seeking meaning even amid chaos. Their sensitivity is both a challenge and their greatest strength.
As a licensed professional counselor (LPC) & relationship coach, I blend growth mindset, positive psychology, and trauma-informed practices with deep empathy.
My ideal clients are sensitive, deeply feeling women navigating life transitions - whether general life changes (therapy) or specifically divorce (coaching). They know they're capable of more than just surviving—they sense the potential for profound personal growth, even as they feel everything more intensely than others might. They want to move beyond overthinking and overwhelm, establish stronger boundaries, & create more meaningful relationships. Often, they find themselves questioning their choices, processing emotions deeply, & seeking meaning even amid chaos. Their sensitivity is both a challenge and their greatest strength.

I focus on cogntive behaviroal therapy, nature based therapy, strength based/ positive psychology, motivational interviewing, and existential theory to bring calm and connectedness to your counseling session.
Join me in nature's tranquil parks, trails (or virtually) to reduce worry, distress, and mental exhaustion. With a down-to-earth nature, I meet you where you are, offering support and gentle challenge to spark breakthroughs. It's not uncommon to feel stuck and overwhelmed—whether due to anxiety, life transitions, financial stress, body image struggles, or the challenge of balancing life. Maybe you're questioning your direction or working to break unhelpful patterns. If you are seeking support, accountability, and a safe space to process emotions, build confidence, and develop healthier habits, let's get started today.
I focus on cogntive behaviroal therapy, nature based therapy, strength based/ positive psychology, motivational interviewing, and existential theory to bring calm and connectedness to your counseling session.
Join me in nature's tranquil parks, trails (or virtually) to reduce worry, distress, and mental exhaustion. With a down-to-earth nature, I meet you where you are, offering support and gentle challenge to spark breakthroughs. It's not uncommon to feel stuck and overwhelmed—whether due to anxiety, life transitions, financial stress, body image struggles, or the challenge of balancing life. Maybe you're questioning your direction or working to break unhelpful patterns. If you are seeking support, accountability, and a safe space to process emotions, build confidence, and develop healthier habits, let's get started today.

Sara R. van Koningsveld
Counselor, MA, LPCC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
My practice integrates: CBT, positive psychology, mindfulness, and holistic approaches.
Life gets difficult and may have you feeling uncomfortable, overwhelmed, anxious, sad or even depressed. -Maybe you are creatively stuck, changing careers, had a significant relationship end, or experienced a major shift or transition in your life. -Really, you want to feel "better", but how does that happen? Through short-term life coaching, brief counseling or longer-term psychotherapy (to address deeper patterns and/or trauma), I am here to support you on this journey of life. Maybe you found your way here because you are ready to let go, to grow, and are seeking something new, different, and better for your life. -Let's chat.
My practice integrates: CBT, positive psychology, mindfulness, and holistic approaches.
Life gets difficult and may have you feeling uncomfortable, overwhelmed, anxious, sad or even depressed. -Maybe you are creatively stuck, changing careers, had a significant relationship end, or experienced a major shift or transition in your life. -Really, you want to feel "better", but how does that happen? Through short-term life coaching, brief counseling or longer-term psychotherapy (to address deeper patterns and/or trauma), I am here to support you on this journey of life. Maybe you found your way here because you are ready to let go, to grow, and are seeking something new, different, and better for your life. -Let's chat.

Depending upon your concerns and goals, I may use a combination of interventions, include compassion-focused therapy, existential-humanistic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, brain-based interventions, relational therapy, Feminist therapy, positive psychology, and/or career development theory.
You’ve worked hard and invested a lot to get where you are, but it feels like something’s missing. From the outside, you look successful but you're not thriving. On the inside, you're anxious, exhausted, overwhelmed, or just plain fed up. You may worry that you’ve lost your drive. Or, maybe you find that the goals you once thought mattered most don’t make you happy anymore. If you’re feeling stressed out, burned out, or unhappy with the life you’ve built, I’m here to help. I’m passionate about helping you tap into your wisdom and rediscover your deepest authenticity and joy.
Depending upon your concerns and goals, I may use a combination of interventions, include compassion-focused therapy, existential-humanistic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, brain-based interventions, relational therapy, Feminist therapy, positive psychology, and/or career development theory.
You’ve worked hard and invested a lot to get where you are, but it feels like something’s missing. From the outside, you look successful but you're not thriving. On the inside, you're anxious, exhausted, overwhelmed, or just plain fed up. You may worry that you’ve lost your drive. Or, maybe you find that the goals you once thought mattered most don’t make you happy anymore. If you’re feeling stressed out, burned out, or unhappy with the life you’ve built, I’m here to help. I’m passionate about helping you tap into your wisdom and rediscover your deepest authenticity and joy.

Dr. Erin Van Oss - Trinity Psychology & Wellness
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I emphasize character strengths using a combination of Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Psychological Testing.
As a licensed psychologist, I offer counseling and assessment services for adults, children, couples, and families. I believe it is critical to recognize each person's diverse needs and unique background. I aim to foster an environment of understanding by guiding clients to gain awareness and develop coping skills. Together, we explore how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected. As clients begin to recognize patterns in thinking, feeling, and behavior, they practice effective coping skills. When clients apply the skills they have learned, they build confidence, overcome personal obstacles, and thrive.
I emphasize character strengths using a combination of Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Psychological Testing.
As a licensed psychologist, I offer counseling and assessment services for adults, children, couples, and families. I believe it is critical to recognize each person's diverse needs and unique background. I aim to foster an environment of understanding by guiding clients to gain awareness and develop coping skills. Together, we explore how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected. As clients begin to recognize patterns in thinking, feeling, and behavior, they practice effective coping skills. When clients apply the skills they have learned, they build confidence, overcome personal obstacles, and thrive.

I am an experienced life coach, therapist and clinical supervisor with many years of experience in positive psychology, integrative health practices and trauma-informed care.
Founder and CEO of LifeStriders. Clinical Supervisor for over 15 years, DEI certified. I am experienced in: Abuse & Trauma, Anger Management, ADD/ADHD, Children/Teen Issues,Career Counseling/Job Loss,Couples/Marriage & Relationship Enhancement,Depression, Diabetes, Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Domestic Violence,Parenting & Constructive Discipline,Grief,Low Self Esteem,Parenting Children with Special Needs, Reactive Attachment Disorder/Adoption,School Issues/ Behavior Problems/ IEP's, Anxiety/ Panic Disorder, PTSD, Social Anxiety,Stress Management,Veterans Post-War Anxiety/Depression & Re-adjustment. DE&I certified
I am an experienced life coach, therapist and clinical supervisor with many years of experience in positive psychology, integrative health practices and trauma-informed care.
Founder and CEO of LifeStriders. Clinical Supervisor for over 15 years, DEI certified. I am experienced in: Abuse & Trauma, Anger Management, ADD/ADHD, Children/Teen Issues,Career Counseling/Job Loss,Couples/Marriage & Relationship Enhancement,Depression, Diabetes, Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Domestic Violence,Parenting & Constructive Discipline,Grief,Low Self Esteem,Parenting Children with Special Needs, Reactive Attachment Disorder/Adoption,School Issues/ Behavior Problems/ IEP's, Anxiety/ Panic Disorder, PTSD, Social Anxiety,Stress Management,Veterans Post-War Anxiety/Depression & Re-adjustment. DE&I certified

That means, from a client-centered perspective, I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), desensitization, mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR), and positive psychology when it is necessary and appropriate to suite the individual's needs.
I provide mental health counseling to individuals seeking services while placing an emphasis on their overall health from a wholistic perspective. I work with each person and get to know more about them biologically, psychologically, and socially. This helps me get to know the individual as a person.
That means, from a client-centered perspective, I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), desensitization, mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR), and positive psychology when it is necessary and appropriate to suite the individual's needs.
I provide mental health counseling to individuals seeking services while placing an emphasis on their overall health from a wholistic perspective. I work with each person and get to know more about them biologically, psychologically, and socially. This helps me get to know the individual as a person.

I have special interest and training in the following: CPTSD/EMDR; LGBTQAI; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); adolescent mental health; family therapy; grief/loss; compulsive hoarding; positive psychology/life coaching; and shame/low self-worth.
I am passionate about my work as a therapist because of my deep commitment to alleviating human suffering. I have 20 years of experience helping clients recover from depression, anxiety, and other life challenges including the "dark night of the soul" that we all face at one point or another. Common concerns include: longstanding feelings of "never good enough;" pain stemming from growing up in challenging or traumatic family environments; "overthinking", perfectionism, and indecision; shame stemming from racism, sexism, homophobia/transphobia; breakups/divorce; loss of loved ones; and career change/retirement.
I have special interest and training in the following: CPTSD/EMDR; LGBTQAI; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); adolescent mental health; family therapy; grief/loss; compulsive hoarding; positive psychology/life coaching; and shame/low self-worth.
I am passionate about my work as a therapist because of my deep commitment to alleviating human suffering. I have 20 years of experience helping clients recover from depression, anxiety, and other life challenges including the "dark night of the soul" that we all face at one point or another. Common concerns include: longstanding feelings of "never good enough;" pain stemming from growing up in challenging or traumatic family environments; "overthinking", perfectionism, and indecision; shame stemming from racism, sexism, homophobia/transphobia; breakups/divorce; loss of loved ones; and career change/retirement.

Hello. I am glad you reached out. My name is Pat Engler-Parish, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living part-time in Wisconsin. Do you often wonder, “What is my purpose, or why did this happen to me, or am I really living my life?” My job is to honor your story, explore these questions, and help you make changes to feel and live better. My areas of expertise are: managing anxiety, worry, feelings of hopelessness, mood swings, grief, unhealed trauma, or concerns about issues related to a health condition such as cancer or dementia, or issues around aging, transitions, and loneliness.
Hello. I am glad you reached out. My name is Pat Engler-Parish, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living part-time in Wisconsin. Do you often wonder, “What is my purpose, or why did this happen to me, or am I really living my life?” My job is to honor your story, explore these questions, and help you make changes to feel and live better. My areas of expertise are: managing anxiety, worry, feelings of hopelessness, mood swings, grief, unhealed trauma, or concerns about issues related to a health condition such as cancer or dementia, or issues around aging, transitions, and loneliness.

Hey there, beautiful soul! Feeling like life's throwing too much your way lately? Take a deep breath. You're not alone in this. I'm here to walk alongside you through those tough times, especially those unique to us women.
Hey there, beautiful soul! Feeling like life's throwing too much your way lately? Take a deep breath. You're not alone in this. I'm here to walk alongside you through those tough times, especially those unique to us women.

Does past or current trauma interfere with living your best life? Do you feel like others don't understand the impact your experiences have on your day to day life because there is a cultural, racial, or religious gaps? Are you looking for assistance supporting others in your life who have experienced trauma? Trauma can be defined by any event that was scary or stressful. It can be a solitary event or continuous over a period of time, and it is individual to the person experiencing it.
Does past or current trauma interfere with living your best life? Do you feel like others don't understand the impact your experiences have on your day to day life because there is a cultural, racial, or religious gaps? Are you looking for assistance supporting others in your life who have experienced trauma? Trauma can be defined by any event that was scary or stressful. It can be a solitary event or continuous over a period of time, and it is individual to the person experiencing it.
Meet Our Positive Psychology Therapists

I am a compassionate individual who is dedicated to the healing journeys of survivors who have been through trauma. I am certified in trauma informed care and I have experience working with adolescent and adult clients from various backgrounds with complex trauma histories. My approach is collaborative, nurturing, empathetic, direct, and non-judgmental because I believe a safe, warm, and accepting environment is essential to the therapeutic process and in guiding clients through their healing and grief; and the thoughts and emotions that go hand in hand with them.
I am a compassionate individual who is dedicated to the healing journeys of survivors who have been through trauma. I am certified in trauma informed care and I have experience working with adolescent and adult clients from various backgrounds with complex trauma histories. My approach is collaborative, nurturing, empathetic, direct, and non-judgmental because I believe a safe, warm, and accepting environment is essential to the therapeutic process and in guiding clients through their healing and grief; and the thoughts and emotions that go hand in hand with them.

I have a master's degree in clinical psychology and 33 years of experience as a licensed professional counselor. My goal is to get to the root of the challenge, in a compassionate, nonjudgmental way. My passion is to help clients get unstuck, so they are free to pursue their passions.
I have a master's degree in clinical psychology and 33 years of experience as a licensed professional counselor. My goal is to get to the root of the challenge, in a compassionate, nonjudgmental way. My passion is to help clients get unstuck, so they are free to pursue their passions.

Hi, I’m Kristin McCarty, and I practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor working virtually in Wisconsin! I counsel adults and mature adolescents, specializing in anxiety, stress, communication issues, and life transitions. I utilize holistic therapies that address thoughts, feelings, and spirituality to help my clients progress and start feeling better. Typical hours available for appointments are Monday- Thursday 7am- 1pm.
Hi, I’m Kristin McCarty, and I practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor working virtually in Wisconsin! I counsel adults and mature adolescents, specializing in anxiety, stress, communication issues, and life transitions. I utilize holistic therapies that address thoughts, feelings, and spirituality to help my clients progress and start feeling better. Typical hours available for appointments are Monday- Thursday 7am- 1pm.

Tracy Treacy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SLRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a licensed professional counselor and wellness consultant with 20+ years of professional experience in the areas of higher education, holistic mental health, and wellness. I have experience working with individuals and couples of diverse backgrounds in various populations with mental health/wellness issues toward their goal of healing and wellness.
I am a licensed professional counselor and wellness consultant with 20+ years of professional experience in the areas of higher education, holistic mental health, and wellness. I have experience working with individuals and couples of diverse backgrounds in various populations with mental health/wellness issues toward their goal of healing and wellness.

Rachel Gremminger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Normal is a setting on a dryer. We are all unique and valid individuals with vast minds. We all have different situations and I believe in using those pieces to heal and build strength. While I specialize in trauma, addiction, and mood, our struggles are usually not that one note or simple. I focus on all aspects of who you and where you want to be, building a strong relationship based on empathy, trust and non judgement. Life is rough, we lose sight of our way, stop seeing the beauty, forget who we are, feel stuck or changed. It takes courage to be vulnerable and reality is we are imperfectly perfect.
Normal is a setting on a dryer. We are all unique and valid individuals with vast minds. We all have different situations and I believe in using those pieces to heal and build strength. While I specialize in trauma, addiction, and mood, our struggles are usually not that one note or simple. I focus on all aspects of who you and where you want to be, building a strong relationship based on empathy, trust and non judgement. Life is rough, we lose sight of our way, stop seeing the beauty, forget who we are, feel stuck or changed. It takes courage to be vulnerable and reality is we are imperfectly perfect.

I'm a licensed psychotherapist providing mental health and substance abuse recovery counseling to adults and adolescents in the Racine and Kenosha WI areas. I take a special interest in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and emotion regulation. I use an array of therapy approaches specifically Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and DBT. I have 15 years of collaborative experience working in the social services and mental health fields. I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015 in various service areas such as psychiatric crisis care and outpatient and in-home services. As your therapist I intend to meet you where you are.
I'm a licensed psychotherapist providing mental health and substance abuse recovery counseling to adults and adolescents in the Racine and Kenosha WI areas. I take a special interest in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and emotion regulation. I use an array of therapy approaches specifically Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and DBT. I have 15 years of collaborative experience working in the social services and mental health fields. I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015 in various service areas such as psychiatric crisis care and outpatient and in-home services. As your therapist I intend to meet you where you are.

Dr. Gary Young is a licensed psychologist with eight years of experience, providing a warm and supportive environment to help clients navigate life’s challenges. He typically works with adults and adolescents facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. He is most comfortable treating individuals struggling with stress management, emotional regulation, and negative thought patterns using evidence-based approaches like DBT, CBT, ACT, and CPT.
Dr. Gary Young is a licensed psychologist with eight years of experience, providing a warm and supportive environment to help clients navigate life’s challenges. He typically works with adults and adolescents facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. He is most comfortable treating individuals struggling with stress management, emotional regulation, and negative thought patterns using evidence-based approaches like DBT, CBT, ACT, and CPT.

Hello, my name is Jennifer Huggins. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes the whole person needs to be considered when making systematic changes so that they can enhance their quality of life. I take an Integrative approach to therapy. I draw from my experience as an Exercise Physiologist, a Pilates instructor, and my education in Family Systems. I meet my clients where they are in their mental health and then we collaborate together to identify their therapy goals and objectives.
Hello, my name is Jennifer Huggins. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes the whole person needs to be considered when making systematic changes so that they can enhance their quality of life. I take an Integrative approach to therapy. I draw from my experience as an Exercise Physiologist, a Pilates instructor, and my education in Family Systems. I meet my clients where they are in their mental health and then we collaborate together to identify their therapy goals and objectives.

“Perspective is the way we see things when we look at them from a certain distance, and it allows us to appreciate their true value.” -Rafael E. Pino. It takes courage to seek help when suffering and facing challenges in life. I strive to create a strong alliance with each person by fostering trust and open communication. Each individual’s journey is unique, and therapy can be a collaborative healing journey.
“Perspective is the way we see things when we look at them from a certain distance, and it allows us to appreciate their true value.” -Rafael E. Pino. It takes courage to seek help when suffering and facing challenges in life. I strive to create a strong alliance with each person by fostering trust and open communication. Each individual’s journey is unique, and therapy can be a collaborative healing journey.
See more therapy options for Milwaukee
Nearby Positive Psychology Therapists Searches for Milwaukee
- Brown Deer
- Elm Grove
- Fox Point
- Franklin
- Glendale
- Greenfield
- Hales Corners
- New Berlin
- Shorewood
- Wauwatosa
- West Allis
- Whitefish Bay
Positive Psychology Therapists
How does positive psychology therapy work?
Positive psychology therapy derives from the work of Martin Seligman of the University of Pennsylvania. He and others developed the field of positive psychology building on humanistic theory. Positive psychology therapy is similar to acceptance and commitment therapy, and it essentially quiets emotional distress through positivity, contentment, and well-being. This therapy does not reduce the individual to symptoms and conditions.
When do I know if I need treatment using positive psychology?
If an individual is overwhelmed by emotional distress and general negativity, they may feel trapped. A positive psychology therapist can help them view their emotions and behaviors differently, and approach life with a better understanding of their positive strengths. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.
What should I expect from positive psychology therapy?
The patient may be asked to explore their signature strengths. The therapist will also ask the individual to talk about their goals, which should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. Discussing negative experiences and symptoms is important, but so is the exploration of positive experiences. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more positive and fulfilling way. This therapy is proactive and may use forgiveness, gratitude, hope, and compassion to help reframe negativity.
Is positive psychology effective in therapy?
Positive psychology therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with eating disorders benefit from this type of intervention. This therapy encourages the person to reframe their distressed thoughts and move into healthier patterns of functioning. This therapy also aims to move an individual toward what works well in their life. Positive psychology therapy can elicit lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.