Christian Therapists in Whitefish Bay, WI
Lauri Budzynski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ECMH-E®
3 Endorsed
Whitefish Bay, WI 53211
Parenting is full of joys and challenges, especially when your child’s unique needs bring extra stress to daily life. Sensory sensitivities, tantrums, or difficulties in social settings can disrupt routines and make even simple outings — like going to a restaurant or attending a party— feel impossible. For families navigating adoption, trauma, or life with a child who spent time in the NICU, these challenges can feel even more complex. Sleep disruptions, behavioral struggles, and unmet expectations can create anxiety for the whole family.
Parenting is full of joys and challenges, especially when your child’s unique needs bring extra stress to daily life. Sensory sensitivities, tantrums, or difficulties in social settings can disrupt routines and make even simple outings — like going to a restaurant or attending a party— feel impossible. For families navigating adoption, trauma, or life with a child who spent time in the NICU, these challenges can feel even more complex. Sleep disruptions, behavioral struggles, and unmet expectations can create anxiety for the whole family.
Getting help takes courage. Searching for the right therapist can feel super overwhelming, and being vulnerable is scary — especially when you’re carrying grief, tension, or uncertainty about fertility, postpartum life, or your relationship. But staying stuck hurts too. Therapy isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about discovering them together. I guide you through the hard stuff so you can start feeling clearer, lighter, and more like yourself — in your body, your mind, and your relationships. You deserve that. And I'm here to help you do it.
Getting help takes courage. Searching for the right therapist can feel super overwhelming, and being vulnerable is scary — especially when you’re carrying grief, tension, or uncertainty about fertility, postpartum life, or your relationship. But staying stuck hurts too. Therapy isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about discovering them together. I guide you through the hard stuff so you can start feeling clearer, lighter, and more like yourself — in your body, your mind, and your relationships. You deserve that. And I'm here to help you do it.
With over 30 years experience, I help couples who feel "stuck" in recurring arguments and experiencing a loss of emotional connection. Many seek help to improve communication, rebuild trust, and feel understood again. Using research-backed approaches such as the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, I help partners manage conflict, deepen emotional connection, strengthen friendship and trust, and create a more secure, lasting relationship. I offer in-person couples counseling, marriage and family therapy, and relationship coaching in Milwaukee and the North Shore, as well as virtual sessions across Wisconsin.
With over 30 years experience, I help couples who feel "stuck" in recurring arguments and experiencing a loss of emotional connection. Many seek help to improve communication, rebuild trust, and feel understood again. Using research-backed approaches such as the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, I help partners manage conflict, deepen emotional connection, strengthen friendship and trust, and create a more secure, lasting relationship. I offer in-person couples counseling, marriage and family therapy, and relationship coaching in Milwaukee and the North Shore, as well as virtual sessions across Wisconsin.
Are you looking for a therapist for your child or teen? Is your child struggling with anxiety and worries, social and emotional issues, or a life transition? I work with children (age 6+) and adolescents (up to age 17) and their families. I specialize in treatment of: Anxiety Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Are you looking for a therapist for your child or teen? Is your child struggling with anxiety and worries, social and emotional issues, or a life transition? I work with children (age 6+) and adolescents (up to age 17) and their families. I specialize in treatment of: Anxiety Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Clients have come to see me for counseling with a variety of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress management, anger management, PTSD, and ADHD. My treatment approach is to help individuals reach their goals by using evidence-based methods and techniques. 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.
Clients have come to see me for counseling with a variety of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress management, anger management, PTSD, and ADHD. My treatment approach is to help individuals reach their goals by using evidence-based methods and techniques. 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.
After establishing a trusting relationship with my clients, I work towards identifying their issues followed by setting mutually-agreed upon attainable goals; one step at a time. I personally believe that the success gained by smaller increments builds confidence which eventually motivates us to achieve more. My clients set the pace; determining just how quickly or slowly they want to proceed. While some only need a few sessions a month, others prefer a more frequent schedule. As a tele-therapy provider I offer the security of a private, confidential “office” with the ease of “meeting” you anywhere at times convenient to you.
After establishing a trusting relationship with my clients, I work towards identifying their issues followed by setting mutually-agreed upon attainable goals; one step at a time. I personally believe that the success gained by smaller increments builds confidence which eventually motivates us to achieve more. My clients set the pace; determining just how quickly or slowly they want to proceed. While some only need a few sessions a month, others prefer a more frequent schedule. As a tele-therapy provider I offer the security of a private, confidential “office” with the ease of “meeting” you anywhere at times convenient to you.
Going to therapy requires a certain level of courage and openness. I'm ready to hear you, see you, and hold space for you. My clients bring their stressors and triggers to work through in session. Together we work on building self-awareness (what is your felt sense or physical sensations), re-framing automatic negative thoughts (cognitive re-structuring), defusing from old narratives/schemas/beliefs, and carve a path towards a more confident/peaceful/content future.
Tools that may be used in session include mindfulness, CBT, DBT, Brainspotting, visualization, Gottman Method (couples), progressive muscle relaxation, & breathwork.
Going to therapy requires a certain level of courage and openness. I'm ready to hear you, see you, and hold space for you. My clients bring their stressors and triggers to work through in session. Together we work on building self-awareness (what is your felt sense or physical sensations), re-framing automatic negative thoughts (cognitive re-structuring), defusing from old narratives/schemas/beliefs, and carve a path towards a more confident/peaceful/content future.
Tools that may be used in session include mindfulness, CBT, DBT, Brainspotting, visualization, Gottman Method (couples), progressive muscle relaxation, & breathwork.
More Therapists Nearby
Dana Stuefen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Brookfield, WI 53005
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling disconnected from your partner? Struggling with communication, trust issues, or recovering from infidelity? Whether you're navigating the challenges of marriage, healing from betrayal or adjusting to major life transitions like becoming new parents or empty nesters, you're not alone, and there is hope. With the right support, healing and reconnection are possible. I work with couples at all stages (dating, married, separating, etc.), and I’m not afraid to explore the deeper issues that might be holding you back. My approach is grounded in research-based techniques, while still specific to your relationship.
Feeling disconnected from your partner? Struggling with communication, trust issues, or recovering from infidelity? Whether you're navigating the challenges of marriage, healing from betrayal or adjusting to major life transitions like becoming new parents or empty nesters, you're not alone, and there is hope. With the right support, healing and reconnection are possible. I work with couples at all stages (dating, married, separating, etc.), and I’m not afraid to explore the deeper issues that might be holding you back. My approach is grounded in research-based techniques, while still specific to your relationship.
Do you find yourself having the same arguments with your partner over and over, no matter how hard you try to communicate differently? Maybe emotions feel difficult to manage, communication feels strained, or you feel stuck in patterns that leave you feeling hurt, disconnected, and alone — even within your most important relationships.
Do you find yourself having the same arguments with your partner over and over, no matter how hard you try to communicate differently? Maybe emotions feel difficult to manage, communication feels strained, or you feel stuck in patterns that leave you feeling hurt, disconnected, and alone — even within your most important relationships.
Christian based therapy available upon request but all religion backgrounds welcome.
Does your family story include infertility, pregnancy/infant loss, a challenging pregnancy, birth trauma, NICU stay, and/or parenting a child with additional needs in areas such as autism, ADHD, learning, or their physical health? If you're struggling with any aspect of family building/parenting, let's connect with you as someone who understands the strain it causes & can help. There are many emotions like grief, anxiety, anger, guilt & fear about how things are “supposed to look”. You're not meant to tackle this alone. Let's work together to reach your goals. Continue reading to learn more about how I can help you.
Christian based therapy available upon request but all religion backgrounds welcome.
Does your family story include infertility, pregnancy/infant loss, a challenging pregnancy, birth trauma, NICU stay, and/or parenting a child with additional needs in areas such as autism, ADHD, learning, or their physical health? If you're struggling with any aspect of family building/parenting, let's connect with you as someone who understands the strain it causes & can help. There are many emotions like grief, anxiety, anger, guilt & fear about how things are “supposed to look”. You're not meant to tackle this alone. Let's work together to reach your goals. Continue reading to learn more about how I can help you.
Are you struggling with finding your place in the world? Are you looking for a place to get it all off your chest? Are you experiencing relationship issues? There are many therapists at Hope for a Better Tomorrow who are ready to support you whether you are a child, teenager, young adult and adult. You may be facing roadblocks that are difficult to talk about but sharing those struggles can be important for growth and restoration. Therapy is a place where we are able to work together to rebuild your self-compassion so you can move forward in life. You can feel good about the positive changes you wish to achieve!
Are you struggling with finding your place in the world? Are you looking for a place to get it all off your chest? Are you experiencing relationship issues? There are many therapists at Hope for a Better Tomorrow who are ready to support you whether you are a child, teenager, young adult and adult. You may be facing roadblocks that are difficult to talk about but sharing those struggles can be important for growth and restoration. Therapy is a place where we are able to work together to rebuild your self-compassion so you can move forward in life. You can feel good about the positive changes you wish to achieve!
My philosophy for therapy is that within everyone is the inherent will to be the best person one can be. Therapy acts as guideposts to assist individuals with developing and rebuilding their internal coping strategies, problem solving skills, and the desire to live life to the fullest. I utilize a wholistic approach to therapy by addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual components in the therapy process
My philosophy for therapy is that within everyone is the inherent will to be the best person one can be. Therapy acts as guideposts to assist individuals with developing and rebuilding their internal coping strategies, problem solving skills, and the desire to live life to the fullest. I utilize a wholistic approach to therapy by addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual components in the therapy process
Anyone who is at least moderately motivated :-), has some level of awareness that they need help. More specifically, their issues, needs, and goals could range from struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, loneliness, relational conflict, grief/loss, overcoming the effects of past trauma, codependency, personal identity and purpose exploration, and the list goes on. They may not know what they want or why, perhaps, a change is needed or there is more potential available than they are accessing. I want to be one of the people to help walk with them through this process of self discovery.
Anyone who is at least moderately motivated :-), has some level of awareness that they need help. More specifically, their issues, needs, and goals could range from struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, loneliness, relational conflict, grief/loss, overcoming the effects of past trauma, codependency, personal identity and purpose exploration, and the list goes on. They may not know what they want or why, perhaps, a change is needed or there is more potential available than they are accessing. I want to be one of the people to help walk with them through this process of self discovery.
Summer is here and for many of us it also means transition time. Are you a someone who's been waiting for life to settle down to fit in therapy or other self-care tasks? Therapy can help you figure out how to live life more purposefully and efficiently. Many of my clients seek support for life transitions, anxiety, disordered eating, grief, sports performance and/or relationship difficulties. I seek to understand each person's lived experience and the contributing factors to their current problem. Together we will develop a holistic mental wellness plan that is practical, effective and personalized for you.
Summer is here and for many of us it also means transition time. Are you a someone who's been waiting for life to settle down to fit in therapy or other self-care tasks? Therapy can help you figure out how to live life more purposefully and efficiently. Many of my clients seek support for life transitions, anxiety, disordered eating, grief, sports performance and/or relationship difficulties. I seek to understand each person's lived experience and the contributing factors to their current problem. Together we will develop a holistic mental wellness plan that is practical, effective and personalized for you.
I provide a calm and supportive environment for clients to be heard, validated and understood. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, having relationship difficulties, or want to improve your mindset, I can help. Together we'll find threads of hope and resilience. I use a positive, collaborative and strength-based approach to therapy. Through treatment, clients can find clarity and peace while creating more organization and balance in their life.
I provide a calm and supportive environment for clients to be heard, validated and understood. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, having relationship difficulties, or want to improve your mindset, I can help. Together we'll find threads of hope and resilience. I use a positive, collaborative and strength-based approach to therapy. Through treatment, clients can find clarity and peace while creating more organization and balance in their life.
Are you and/or your partner feeling more like business partners or roommates? It feels like your conversations are quickly turning into arguments where things escalate quickly or where you just avoid each other all together. If you find yourself thinking "how did we get here", "why are we even married", " I can't do this anymore" - then you have come to the right place.
Are you and/or your partner feeling more like business partners or roommates? It feels like your conversations are quickly turning into arguments where things escalate quickly or where you just avoid each other all together. If you find yourself thinking "how did we get here", "why are we even married", " I can't do this anymore" - then you have come to the right place.
Life is hard. Sometimes we need extra support when tackling life's challenges. My focus is on working with individuals 16+ experiencing anxiety, depression, family stress, relationship issues, marriage struggles, phobias (OCD), burnout, life transitions and more.
My experience working with clients involves using modalities such as the Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Attachment Based Modalities.
Life is hard. Sometimes we need extra support when tackling life's challenges. My focus is on working with individuals 16+ experiencing anxiety, depression, family stress, relationship issues, marriage struggles, phobias (OCD), burnout, life transitions and more.
My experience working with clients involves using modalities such as the Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Attachment Based Modalities.
As a creative, introspective, or deeply feeling person, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or disconnected at times. Navigating challenges like anxiety, relationship struggles, or body image concerns can make it hard to stay grounded. I’m passionate about supporting individuals to explore their inner world, reconnect with their authentic selves, and learn healthier ways to cope with overwhelming emotions. My clients are often age 16+, deep feelers and thinkers, and may struggle with perfectionism, high achievement, or experiences such as anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, or burnout.
As a creative, introspective, or deeply feeling person, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or disconnected at times. Navigating challenges like anxiety, relationship struggles, or body image concerns can make it hard to stay grounded. I’m passionate about supporting individuals to explore their inner world, reconnect with their authentic selves, and learn healthier ways to cope with overwhelming emotions. My clients are often age 16+, deep feelers and thinkers, and may struggle with perfectionism, high achievement, or experiences such as anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, or burnout.
It is a passion and mission of mine to provide a safe, compassionate environment where you can explore, discover and navigate growth.
It is my priority to create a therapeutic atmosphere that promotes growth & positive change to heal from trauma, anxiety, stress, business & sports performance problems, attachment/relationship issues, and other challenges.
Together we'll create a tailored treatment approach to fit your unique needs and goals. I am honored to have the opportunity to earn your trust & offer you support.
I also offer supervision for LPC-ITs & Interns, as well as consultation for Brainspotters seeking certification.
It is a passion and mission of mine to provide a safe, compassionate environment where you can explore, discover and navigate growth.
It is my priority to create a therapeutic atmosphere that promotes growth & positive change to heal from trauma, anxiety, stress, business & sports performance problems, attachment/relationship issues, and other challenges.
Together we'll create a tailored treatment approach to fit your unique needs and goals. I am honored to have the opportunity to earn your trust & offer you support.
I also offer supervision for LPC-ITs & Interns, as well as consultation for Brainspotters seeking certification.
I'll meet you where you are at, listen to your story and work to understand your treatment needs using sound integrative family system theory and Christian faith.
Covid fatigue is heightening our stress and relation issues. Loss of what is familiar is challenging. It's time to talk to someone to get a different perspective, new coping method or help with a significant lifestyle change. Grief, anxiety and depression are increasing due to the stress of the pandemic. Issues you are experiencing for yourself, your relationship, marriage and family are heightened causing elevated emotional, spiritual and physical distress. I see you as an individual made of body, soul and spirit in God's image and beleive you are worthy of dignity. I'd like to help you live well through a systemic approach.
I'll meet you where you are at, listen to your story and work to understand your treatment needs using sound integrative family system theory and Christian faith.
Covid fatigue is heightening our stress and relation issues. Loss of what is familiar is challenging. It's time to talk to someone to get a different perspective, new coping method or help with a significant lifestyle change. Grief, anxiety and depression are increasing due to the stress of the pandemic. Issues you are experiencing for yourself, your relationship, marriage and family are heightened causing elevated emotional, spiritual and physical distress. I see you as an individual made of body, soul and spirit in God's image and beleive you are worthy of dignity. I'd like to help you live well through a systemic approach.
See more therapy options for Whitefish Bay
Nearby Christian Therapists Searches for Whitefish Bay
- Brookfield
- Brown Deer
- Elm Grove
- Glendale
- Greenfield
- Menomonee Falls
- Mequon
- Milwaukee
- Shorewood
- Thiensville
- Wauwatosa
- West Allis
Christian Therapists
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
Therapists and clients don’t need to share the same belief system or background to be able to work effectively together, but a therapist whose training includes a focus on cultural competence may be better able to form a therapeutic bond with individuals from a range of backgrounds, as they will have experience in tailoring their approach to each client—and will be prepared to acknowledge and consider the effects of culture, religion, and other factors on each individual.
Why is it important to find a therapist sensitive to Christian values?
Each person brings a unique history and background to therapy, making it important to find a licensed therapist who is trained in a broad range of treatment modalities. In addition, for people who grow up in a faith tradition that strongly influences the way they conduct their everyday life, finding a therapist who understands or shares that background can ease the disclosure of sensitive information and facilitate the therapeutic process. For some clients, a Christian therapist is likely to incorporate faith-based principles into emotional healing techniques.
How do I recognize an effective Christian therapist?
Christian therapists are licensed mental health professionals—holding a master’s or doctoral degree in medicine, nursing, psychology, counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy—who are also familiar with Christian beliefs and values. They have an understanding of the importance that Christian principles play in the lives of individuals and families, which allows them to be especially sensitive to the kinds of struggles that can affect daily functioning. Like all effective therapists, a Christian therapist will have undergone training and certification in a variety of treatment modalities that help people through crises and enable them to master the challenges of life.
Why might someone feel comfortable with a Christian therapist?
While training, qualifications, and experience are always important, research has long established that a strong alliance between client and therapist is a major contributor to therapeutic success. An alliance is likely to be strengthened with a therapist who not only is responsive to questions and concerns but also shares a client’s faith and values. Sensitivity to spiritual matters as well as to everyday struggles can provide a welcome sense of safety and contribute to the bond between client and therapist, both of which support the therapeutic process.
Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Christian therapists?
The directory of Christian therapists includes professionals who have shared their background in their profiles. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. The directory also shows therapists who indicate that they have extensive experience working with Christian clients, regardless of their own background or religious affiliation.