Therapists for Toddlers in Milwaukee, WI

Photo of Maria Elena Perez, Psychologist, PhD
Maria Elena Perez
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53226
Each individual is on a unique path of growth, healing. and self-discovery. Identifying barriers to becoming whole is key to a life of fulfillment and joy. It is my life’s purpose and privilege to help my clients on their journey to better emotional health and freedom from patterns that prevent happiness, contentment, and security. All too often, we suffer in silence, and in doing so we experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, and disconnectedness. Psychological and emotional wellness are truly possible as new ways of thinking develop and shape how we show up in the world.
Each individual is on a unique path of growth, healing. and self-discovery. Identifying barriers to becoming whole is key to a life of fulfillment and joy. It is my life’s purpose and privilege to help my clients on their journey to better emotional health and freedom from patterns that prevent happiness, contentment, and security. All too often, we suffer in silence, and in doing so we experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, and disconnectedness. Psychological and emotional wellness are truly possible as new ways of thinking develop and shape how we show up in the world.
(262) 228-9894 View (262) 228-9894
Photo of Dr. Jacquelyn Bogdanov, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Jacquelyn Bogdanov
Psychologist, PsyD
Milwaukee, WI 53226
I'm a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience working with children and parents. My practice primarily focuses on helping families with ADHD, anxiety, and related challenges. I have expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT). When I'm not working with kids and families in therapy, you'll find me making videos for my YouTube channel, where I provide education about ADHD for parents.
I'm a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience working with children and parents. My practice primarily focuses on helping families with ADHD, anxiety, and related challenges. I have expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT). When I'm not working with kids and families in therapy, you'll find me making videos for my YouTube channel, where I provide education about ADHD for parents.
(262) 214-6943 View (262) 214-6943
Photo of Howard Thirus, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Howard Thirus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Howard (Reggie) Thirus is a licensed professional counselor who graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee in 2016. Reggie works with adults, individuals and couples. Reggie has experience working with mood issues, LGBTQ+ issues, ADHD, Emotional Health, Emotional Intimacy, Connection, and cultural issues . Reggie works with clients to help them change their negative thought and behavior patterns, helps them to recognize and understand more about their feelings and helps clients develop a more authentic self. Reggie enjoys exercise, listening to good music and getting outdoors to spend time in the sun.
Howard (Reggie) Thirus is a licensed professional counselor who graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee in 2016. Reggie works with adults, individuals and couples. Reggie has experience working with mood issues, LGBTQ+ issues, ADHD, Emotional Health, Emotional Intimacy, Connection, and cultural issues . Reggie works with clients to help them change their negative thought and behavior patterns, helps them to recognize and understand more about their feelings and helps clients develop a more authentic self. Reggie enjoys exercise, listening to good music and getting outdoors to spend time in the sun.
(262) 686-4753 View (262) 686-4753
Photo of Stephany Pruitt - Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, THD, LPC
Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, THD, LPC
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53216
"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 Nola Beni, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Nola Beni
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a pre-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with experience supporting couples that encounter communication pattern difficulties, resentment, and challenges navigating relationship roles. I have worked with individuals from LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities, as well as clients living with OCD, anxiety, trauma, anger, and eating disorders. My background includes work as a case manager in an eating disorder treatment facility, practicing from a Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned perspective.
I am a pre-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with experience supporting couples that encounter communication pattern difficulties, resentment, and challenges navigating relationship roles. I have worked with individuals from LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities, as well as clients living with OCD, anxiety, trauma, anger, and eating disorders. My background includes work as a case manager in an eating disorder treatment facility, practicing from a Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned perspective.
(262) 205-7709 View (262) 205-7709
Photo of Dr. Brittany Mathews, Psychologist, PhD, LP, APIT
Dr. Brittany Mathews
Psychologist, PhD, LP, APIT
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Evidence-based telehealth treatment (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, exposure therapy) for children, adolescents, and young adults who are experiencing anxiety or depression. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or stuck in a cycle of sadness, you’re not alone. As a parent, it can be so difficult to watch your child struggle with overwhelming emotions, feeling isolated, and unable to navigate the challenges they face. You want to help, but it’s difficult to know where to start. Anxiety and depression are commonly experienced during childhood and adolescence, and there are effective treatments available!
Evidence-based telehealth treatment (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, exposure therapy) for children, adolescents, and young adults who are experiencing anxiety or depression. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or stuck in a cycle of sadness, you’re not alone. As a parent, it can be so difficult to watch your child struggle with overwhelming emotions, feeling isolated, and unable to navigate the challenges they face. You want to help, but it’s difficult to know where to start. Anxiety and depression are commonly experienced during childhood and adolescence, and there are effective treatments available!
(262) 747-2336 View (262) 747-2336
Photo of Alena Kanter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alena Kanter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Hello! My name is Alena and I am an Advanced Practice Social Worker. I have excellent experience as a school-based therapist, and now as a clinical therapist. Most of my clients come to me due to trauma, behavioral concerns, or in need of help expressing emotions. Many children struggle with processing their feelings or world. I use play therapy to help children and teens express themselves in a way that feels natural and safe. I'm here to support my clients and offer unconditional positive regard.
Hello! My name is Alena and I am an Advanced Practice Social Worker. I have excellent experience as a school-based therapist, and now as a clinical therapist. Most of my clients come to me due to trauma, behavioral concerns, or in need of help expressing emotions. Many children struggle with processing their feelings or world. I use play therapy to help children and teens express themselves in a way that feels natural and safe. I'm here to support my clients and offer unconditional positive regard.
(414) 622-1878 View (414) 622-1878
Photo of Sara Saunders - LifeStance Health, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Milwaukee, WI 53224
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(262) 447-8355 View (262) 447-8355
Photo of Reanin Stone, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMFT IT
Reanin Stone
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMFT IT
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53209
My approach is to collaboratively explore solutions to issues experienced in creative ways, such as using art/crafts, meditataion, breathwork, and movement that can make the process of holistic healing not just impactful, but also enjoyable.
My approach is to collaboratively explore solutions to issues experienced in creative ways, such as using art/crafts, meditataion, breathwork, and movement that can make the process of holistic healing not just impactful, but also enjoyable.
(414) 877-4984 View (414) 877-4984
Photo of Kathryn Markgraf, Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Kathryn Markgraf
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Milwaukee, WI 53209
My clients and families are motivated to improve their lives and are open to discovering new ways to manage their emotions and navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, low self-acceptance or self-worth, motherhood, and those healing from childhood trauma or complex family dynamics, which often impact performance in work, school, sports, and relationships. I also work with young children, teens, and families who are struggling meeting school or family expectations and are having trouble connecting with one another.
My clients and families are motivated to improve their lives and are open to discovering new ways to manage their emotions and navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, low self-acceptance or self-worth, motherhood, and those healing from childhood trauma or complex family dynamics, which often impact performance in work, school, sports, and relationships. I also work with young children, teens, and families who are struggling meeting school or family expectations and are having trouble connecting with one another.
(414) 310-2268 View (414) 310-2268
Photo of Nina Monet Dismukes, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Nina Monet Dismukes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Online Only
Greetings, are you trying to create balance in your life? As your therapist, I offer a safe space and an atmosphere where you will feel heard and supported. I challenge my clients and encourage them to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Learning and unlearning thoughts/behaviors will be eye-opening for you. When expressing your needs, wants, struggles, past, goals, and much more it sometimes can feel overwhelming to keep a balance with your mental health and other life factors. As we embark on this therapeutic journey together, I feel honored to help you through this pivotal moment in your life.
Greetings, are you trying to create balance in your life? As your therapist, I offer a safe space and an atmosphere where you will feel heard and supported. I challenge my clients and encourage them to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Learning and unlearning thoughts/behaviors will be eye-opening for you. When expressing your needs, wants, struggles, past, goals, and much more it sometimes can feel overwhelming to keep a balance with your mental health and other life factors. As we embark on this therapeutic journey together, I feel honored to help you through this pivotal moment in your life.
(773) 830-3934 View (773) 830-3934
Photo of Natasha Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Natasha Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Milwaukee, WI 53214
My focus as a therapist is creating a collaborative and supportive space for children, adolescents, and adults navigating challenges like mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, autism, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, and identity exploration. I also support individuals coping with caregiving issues, aging, and crisis. My approach blends warmth with practical tools, using evidence-based techniques like DBT, CBT, attachment-based therapy, and Jungian Sand-Play to support both immediate relief and long-term change.
My focus as a therapist is creating a collaborative and supportive space for children, adolescents, and adults navigating challenges like mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, autism, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, and identity exploration. I also support individuals coping with caregiving issues, aging, and crisis. My approach blends warmth with practical tools, using evidence-based techniques like DBT, CBT, attachment-based therapy, and Jungian Sand-Play to support both immediate relief and long-term change.
(262) 449-0659 View (262) 449-0659
Photo of Dr. Nicole Shay, Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Dr. Nicole Shay
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Dr. Shay provides neuropsychological evaluations for children and adolescents. Her specialty areas include assessments for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Learning Disabilities, as well as assessments for children with neurological, developmental, or genetic disorders. She has worked extensively in the areas of epilepsy and traumatic brain injury/concussion. As a neuropsychologist, Dr. Shay's goal is to help patients to reach their greatest potential.
Dr. Shay provides neuropsychological evaluations for children and adolescents. Her specialty areas include assessments for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Learning Disabilities, as well as assessments for children with neurological, developmental, or genetic disorders. She has worked extensively in the areas of epilepsy and traumatic brain injury/concussion. As a neuropsychologist, Dr. Shay's goal is to help patients to reach their greatest potential.
(262) 588-4261 View (262) 588-4261
Photo of Anastacia Clucas, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-IT
Anastacia Clucas
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-IT
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53209
Life's challenges—whether ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma—can feel overwhelming and isolating. You don't have to navigate them alone. I bring a unique perspective shaped by years of meeting people where they are, literally and figuratively, and helping them build the lives they deserve. The pressures of growing up in a fast-changing world on children and adolescents can create conflict and academic stress to identity struggles and emotional regulation. Using evidence-based approaches, children and adolescents can develop coping skills, build confidence, and strengthen communication for themselves during these struggles.
Life's challenges—whether ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma—can feel overwhelming and isolating. You don't have to navigate them alone. I bring a unique perspective shaped by years of meeting people where they are, literally and figuratively, and helping them build the lives they deserve. The pressures of growing up in a fast-changing world on children and adolescents can create conflict and academic stress to identity struggles and emotional regulation. Using evidence-based approaches, children and adolescents can develop coping skills, build confidence, and strengthen communication for themselves during these struggles.
(414) 348-5615 View (414) 348-5615
Photo of Rebekah Sandell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Rebekah Sandell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
4 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Waitlist for new clients
If you're looking to go beyond talk therapy, I may be the right fit for you. Through a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive lens, we will work together to uncover and build upon your resilience. I am here to empathically support your therapeutic journey and when you feel comfortable, I will gently challenge your preconceptions about yourself and the world around you. This is where growth happens. I encourage you to bring your fullest self to sessions, whatever that may entail, ie. humor, colorful language, creativity, authenticity…and I will do the same.
If you're looking to go beyond talk therapy, I may be the right fit for you. Through a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive lens, we will work together to uncover and build upon your resilience. I am here to empathically support your therapeutic journey and when you feel comfortable, I will gently challenge your preconceptions about yourself and the world around you. This is where growth happens. I encourage you to bring your fullest self to sessions, whatever that may entail, ie. humor, colorful language, creativity, authenticity…and I will do the same.
(414) 441-4837 View (414) 441-4837
Photo of Laura Ramos - LifeStance Health, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Milwaukee, WI 53207
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(414) 404-7148 View (414) 404-7148
Photo of Hayley Ishihara, Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Hayley Ishihara
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Milwaukee, WI 53202
My ideal client may be a child, teen, or adult who is navigating the emotional weight of everyday life. You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or PTSD, or feeling stuck in patterns related to self-esteem, identity, or body image. Sometimes the struggle is clear and heavy; other times it’s harder to name—you just know that things feel overwhelming. Life’s ups and downs can feel relentless, and I offer a steady, compassionate presence while navigating challenges. Together, we focus not only on coping, but on helping you feel more grounded, empowered, and connected—to yourself and to your life.
My ideal client may be a child, teen, or adult who is navigating the emotional weight of everyday life. You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or PTSD, or feeling stuck in patterns related to self-esteem, identity, or body image. Sometimes the struggle is clear and heavy; other times it’s harder to name—you just know that things feel overwhelming. Life’s ups and downs can feel relentless, and I offer a steady, compassionate presence while navigating challenges. Together, we focus not only on coping, but on helping you feel more grounded, empowered, and connected—to yourself and to your life.
(414) 348-1458 View (414) 348-1458
Photo of Emma Smith-Knapp, Counselor, LPC, MS
Emma Smith-Knapp
Counselor, LPC, MS
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I work with individuals of all ages as well as couples and families. I primarily work with trauma, anxiety, depression, family reunification and gender identity, but am here to help with whatever may be troubling you. I am also a LGBTQIA+ affirming and multiculturally sensitive practitioner.
I work with individuals of all ages as well as couples and families. I primarily work with trauma, anxiety, depression, family reunification and gender identity, but am here to help with whatever may be troubling you. I am also a LGBTQIA+ affirming and multiculturally sensitive practitioner.
(414) 291-9487 x507 View (414) 291-9487 x507
Photo of Sarah P. La Follette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah P. La Follette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Many people with trauma or PTSD also have relationship problems, addictions, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and other mental health concerns. This is completely normal. If you suffered from trauma, you had to adapt to survive. You had to be watchful and on alert to protect yourself. This probably led to feelings of anxiety, anger, loneliness, and fear. You might feel misunderstood, judged, and depressed. You might feel like giving up. You worry that your life isn't on track like your peers. It's common to feel like you can't always trust people, and this makes it hard to have healthy relationships.
Many people with trauma or PTSD also have relationship problems, addictions, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and other mental health concerns. This is completely normal. If you suffered from trauma, you had to adapt to survive. You had to be watchful and on alert to protect yourself. This probably led to feelings of anxiety, anger, loneliness, and fear. You might feel misunderstood, judged, and depressed. You might feel like giving up. You worry that your life isn't on track like your peers. It's common to feel like you can't always trust people, and this makes it hard to have healthy relationships.
(414) 251-1413 View (414) 251-1413
Photo of Sierra Worob, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Sierra Worob
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Milwaukee, WI 53207
Sierra Worob is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LifeStance Health. She is committed to helping clients in Wisconsin navigate life s complexities with clarity and resilience. With expertise in a broad range of therapeutic techniques, Sierra offers support to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. Her practice is centered on enhancing interpersonal skills, building resilience, and addressing various mental health and behavioral concerns. Sierra s clinical focus is particularly in treating issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma.Sierra’s clinical focus is particularly in treati
Sierra Worob is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker at LifeStance Health. She is committed to helping clients in Wisconsin navigate life s complexities with clarity and resilience. With expertise in a broad range of therapeutic techniques, Sierra offers support to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. Her practice is centered on enhancing interpersonal skills, building resilience, and addressing various mental health and behavioral concerns. Sierra s clinical focus is particularly in treating issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma.Sierra’s clinical focus is particularly in treati
(414) 251-2078 View (414) 251-2078

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FAQ - About Therapy for Toddlers and Preschoolers
What are the behavioral signs indicating a toddler might need counseling?
Common behavioral signs that a child may need counseling include high levels of emotional distress or anxiety, learning challenges, interpersonal conflict, anger, or social withdrawal. Any drastic changes in toddler behavior or self-esteem can be indicative that a child may benefit from therapy. Seeing a therapist at the early stages of any behavioral changes can be most impactful on behavior, as well as helpful to caregivers who may receive guidance on what symptoms to look for in their child in the future, even if therapy is not warranted at that time.

Can a two-year-old see a psychologist?
Children and adults of all ages can see psychologists and other forms of mental health professionals, such as counselors, psychiatrists, and social workers. Families seeking therapy for their toddler should just be aware that any guidance they seek should come from a professional who has specific experience working with young children, as well as the specific modalities that are appropriate for young children, such as play therapy.

What is the most effective type of therapy for toddlers and preschoolers?
In general, play therapy is the most effective and common form of therapy for young children. Play therapy helps facilitate behavior change by offering an age-appropriate way for children to express their emotions and develop more effective coping strategies. Toddlers with specific concerns may benefit from more specialized forms of therapy, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for toddlers in families in which there is significant parent-child relational conflict.

What happens during therapy sessions for toddlers?
What occurs in therapy sessions for toddlers depends on the therapeutic approach being used by the therapist. Most toddler therapists will use some form of play therapy in sessions to encourage toddler engagement. In play therapy sessions, children are encouraged to use toys within the therapy setting to express their emotions; subsequent responses by the therapist and/or family members can help guide toddler behavior and behavior change. Toddler therapy sessions can also involve family therapy or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which can help improve parenting behaviors and reduce strain on families.