Meet Our Licensed Therapists
Facilitating Mental Health & Wellness
Let us help you and your loved ones find emotional well-being, achieve your personal goals, and reach your fullest potential. Our professional staff includes licensed psychologists, psychotherapists, marriage and family counselors, social workers, and substance abuse counselors.
Family Service attracts and is able to retain a top quality professional staff and enjoys a broad base of community support. This makes Family Service uniquely qualified to assess critical community needs and to address those needs with programs that are both timely and effective.
Licensed Clinical Psychologists
Beth Warnes, Psy.D
CLINICAL SUPERVISOR
Education & Credentials
Doctor of Psychology, Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology
Masters Degree in Forensic Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice
BA, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Practice Location
Waukesha Clinic
Practice Philosophy
Social isolation and loneliness are often key factors in a person’s struggle with anxiety and depression. I believe in the power of human connectedness and effective communication. I offer support, insight, and guidance to help you overcome the emotional barriers that have prevented you from having strong and healthy relationships. A significant focus of my practice is marriage counseling, where I use an integrative approach to teach couples more effective communication while increasing their acceptance of and understanding for each other. I enjoy working with new and expectant mothers and their families adjusting to the demands of becoming new parents.
Areas of Expertise
Depression, including Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, Social Phobia/Isolation,
Stress Management, Grief/loss, Relationship/Marriage Discord, Parenting Concerns, Anger Management, Divorce, Low Self-Esteem
Treatment Specialties
Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR
Education & Credentials
Doctorate from Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology
Board Certification & Organizations
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Concentration
Ages 18 and older
Personal Interests
I am a mother of three, an active volunteer for Girl Scouts and church, and enjoy getting outdoors, hiking and geocaching.
Psychotherapists
Marybeth Banach, MS, LPC, NCC
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
Masters of Science in Counseling, Mount Mary University, with
majors in Community and Pastoral Counseling
Certification in Older Adult Mental Health, University of
Wisconsin-Madison
Practice Location
Telehealth
Practice Philosophy
I respect and appreciate the uniqueness of each individual and
believe a genuine, empathic therapeutic relationship is beneficial to growth and healing. Taking into account the client’s cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic background, I use evidence-based techniques to maximize beneficial outcomes for each client. My approach begins with establishment of a strong therapeutic alliance with nonjudgmental listening and acceptance. I believe my role is to help my clients become more self-directed, find meaning in life, and experience life more fully.
Areas of Expertise
Grief/loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, trauma and life transitions.
Treatment Specialties
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Board Certification & Organizations
Licensed Professional Counselor National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc
Concentration
Adolescents, adults, older adults
Personal Interests
I have three grown children, two grand-children, and one on the way, all who live in Florida. I enjoy visiting them quite often.
Greg Barden, MSW, LCSW, RPT
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and Psychology - University of
Wisconsin Whitewater
Masters in Social Work - University Wisconsin Milwaukee
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Registered Play Therapist
Practice Location
Children’s Place in Waukesha
Practice Philosophy
While I’m highly integrative in my approach to models of therapy,
the core of my therapeutic practice is focused on providing a healing, engaging, playful, and often humorous, therapy relationship with clients, that aims to promote insight and positive change, so they can start or deepen their healing journey, and to start living the life they dream of. Therapy is a judgement-free space where we can explore, and begin to change, all sorts of struggles and experiences we’ve had in life. And the nice thing is we’ll work at a pace that you’re comfortable with, so you never have to discuss anything you don’t feel ready or comfortable to.
Areas of Expertise
In addition to general psychotherapy work for depressive and anxious feelings, I specialize in working with: ADHD, trauma and neglect recovery, helping when we’re struggling with changes or transitions in life, helping improve self-esteem and self-worth, stress management, dreamwork, healing from childhood mental/emotional wounds, and helping with one’s personal / spiritual growth. LGBTQ+ affirming.
Treatment Specialties
Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Emotional Freedom Technique / Tapping, Psychodynamic and Jungian- Oriented Psychotherapy.
Board Certification & Organizations
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Registered Play Therapist
Board member of the Wisconsin Association for Play Therapy
Concentration
Children 10 and older, adolescents and adults
Andrea Benslimane, MSW, LCSW
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, UW- Milwaukee
Master of Social Work, George Williams College of Aurora University
Practice Location
School Services
Practice Philosophy
I know it can be difficult to ask for help when life gets
overwhelming, everyone needs support at times. Therapy is
individualized, based on your needs and goals. Let's work together
to identify and change unhealthy patterns in your life, finding new approaches to cope and problem solve. My goal is to provide a judgement-free space for you to share your unique strengths and challenges.
Areas of Expertise
I have over 20+ years experience in a variety of treatment settings including: inpatient, outpatient, group therapy, partial hospitalization, and school-based services. I work with mood disorders, ADHD, trauma recovery, depression, anxiety and substance abuse.
Treatment Specialties
In order to experience change, it is important to keep an open mind, finding new approaches to cope and problem solve. My approach is empathic, solution-focused, strength-based and encompasses principles of cognitive-behavioral (CBT), mindfulness based (MBCT), rational emotive (REBT), acceptance and commitment (ACT), dialectical-behavioral (DBT) methodologies and EMDR-IT
Board Certification & Organizations
Member of NASW
Concentration
My focus has been with children, adolescents, young adults, and families.
Personal Interests
I enjoy spending my free time with family and friends. I also have a passion for photography, cooking and love being outdoors hiking.
Marisa Berry, MS, LPC
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
Master of Science in Professional Counseling, concentration in Clinical Mental
Health Counseling from Mount Mary University
Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Carroll University
Practice Location
Waukesha Clinic
Practice Philosophy
My passion is to help clients improve their mental health while helping
each client gain a better understanding of themselves, their strengths, and
their values. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where honest conversations and exploration can occur. In this way, it is my goal to empower my clients to recognize and connect with their own inner strength. I take a collaborative approach when working with individuals as I believe each person is the expert on themselves and their unique experience. I believe in the healing power of cultural and spiritual practices and beliefs, and take time to learn about and incorporate my clients’ individual healing practices in treatment.
Areas of Expertise
Anxiety, Adjustment Disorder, Depression, Trauma, Substance Use Disorder, Life Transitions, and Relationship Conflicts.
Treatment Specialties
Adlerian therapy, Person-centered therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-informed treatment
Board Certifications & Organizations
Licensed Professional Counselor
American Counseling Association
Concentration
Adults and Adolescents
Personal Interests
I enjoy playing the piano, getting lost in a good book, and connecting with loved ones. I have a passion for exploring new places, trying new food, and learning about photography.
Emily Cherti, MS, LPC-IT
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
Master of Science in Behavioral Health Psychology, concentration in
Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Carroll University
Bachelor of Science in Psychology with Minors in Animal Behavior and
Criminal Justice – Carroll University
Practice Location
School Services
Practice Philosophy
I believe in being person-centered and taking a strengths-based approach
when it comes to my practice. Everyone should feel as if their own feelings are valid. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment, along with empowering my clients to recognize their own unique strengths. I will provide a judgement-free space for my clients to feel comfortable and supported during their time with me. I believe in collaborating with my clients, side-by-side, and allowing them to lead their own sessions and lean on me for support, when needed.
Areas of Expertise
Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, ADHD, Anger Management, Panic Disorder, Collaborative Problem-Solving, and Substance Use Disorders.
Treatment Specialties
Person-centered therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Treatment, Harm Reduction, and Mindfulness Techniques.
Concentration
Children, Adolescents, Families
Personal Interests
I enjoy spending my free time with family, friends, and my pets. I love to do anything that involves crafts and paints and I enjoy going for nature walks and watching the sunset.
Karen Cumblad, LPC
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
SUPERVISOR FOR THE CENTER FOR PREVENTION OF
FAMILY VIOLENCE
Education and Credentials
Master of Science in Counseling and Guidance, LPC
Practice Location
Waukesha Clinic
Practice Philosophy
I strive to create a warm, trusting atmosphere where clients can share their stories and process their hurts, struggles, and stresses. Each person is the expert on their life and so, together, we develop a plan that will lead to emotional health and improved relationships. My work is guided by the belief that all persons have inherent value and can experience positive change.
Areas of Expertise
Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Relationship Conflicts, Anger Issues, Trauma, Substance Use Disorders, Developmental Disabilities, Career Change and Life Transitions, Grief, and Domestic Abuse.
Treatment Specialties
I used an integrative approach based on individual needs, which could include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Interpersonal, Solution Focused, Interpersonal, Emotion-focused strategies, Christian Counseling and EMDR
Board Certification & Organizations
Licensed Professional Counselor
Member of American Counseling Association
Member of Wisconsin Counseling Association
Appointed to Wisconsin Governor’s Council on Offender Re-entry
Concentrations
Adults, Couples, and Adolescents
Personal Interests
I enjoy the outdoors, including hiking, biking, gardening, and being near the water. I like to read for learning and for pleasure. Above all, I find joy in spending time with my family and friends.
Pamela Derby, MS, LCSW
Psychotherapist
Education & Credentials
Master of Science, Educational Psychology/Community Counseling University of
Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Evergreen - Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider –
for delivery of telemental health services in the treatment of trauma and clinical
issues – curriculum by Janina Fischer.
ZUR Institute - TeleMental Health & Digital Ethics: Ethical, Legal, Clinical,
Technological and Practice Considerations
Practice Location
Telehealth
Practice Philosophy
Pamela earned her degree in Educational Psychology and Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She was licensed as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker by the State of Wisconsin in 1995. She is passionate about brain science and innovations in the profession. She has continued to learn and serve for nearly 30 years in an array of community-based settings including universities and urban schools, non-profit agencies, private practice, and community health. She believes in supporting the development of new professionals and has enthusiastically supervised therapists in training and graduate students in both clinical and educational settings. She is committed to the needs of individuals and families, and to their connection to the community at large.
Pamela believes that the power of human healing is catalyzed by creativity and connection established in the safety of integrity and mindfulness. She believes in the innate drive to thrive and overcome hardship in pursuit of purpose. Therapeutic power lies in the joining of courage, curiosity, and compassion with this desire to grow. There comes a time in the present when one realizes that what helped and was necessary to survive in the past, no longer serves. For Pamela, psychotherapy is a space of becoming. It is a collaboration in which people commit to champion human dignity on the road to thriving. It is an ever-livening journey of unburdening in the service of internal freedom and vitality.
Areas of Expertise and Treatment Specialties
Trauma treatment and traumatic growth, Neuro-Specific Meditation, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems Therapy, guided imagery, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, grief and loss, Brief Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Creativity, Art and Psychodrama, and depth psychology.
Shelby Hausman, LPC-IT
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
MS in Professional Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling,
Mount Mary University
Practice Location
School Services
Practice Philosophy
I am motivated to collaborate with individuals presenting with a wide range of
challenges to help them live more successfully with a healthier sense of
identity, control, and peace.
It can be overwhelming when the same negative thoughts, feelings, or behaviors keep happening over and over. You don’t like the outcome, but you just don’t know how to make a change. I am here to listen, support, and work with you to achieve better outcomes and feelings of wellness. My focus is to build a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Together, we will identify your mental health needs and use individualized interventions, in addition to your personal strengths, to improve your well-being. Furthermore, I believe it is important to challenge unhelpful patterns that prevent us from creating change and develop a new narrative.
Board Certification & Organizations
National Certified Counselor (NCC)
DPI Certified School Counselor
American Counseling Association
American School Counseling Association, Wisconsin School Counseling Association
Concentration
Children, Adolescents, Young Adults, Families
Personal Interests
In my free time, I am a foodie who enjoys being with family and friends, spending time outdoors, working out, reading, and cheering on all the Wisconsin sports teams.
La'Sonja Johnson, MS, APSW
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee - Masters of Science in Social Work
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee – Masters of Science in Educational Leadership
University of Wisconsin Whitewater – Bachelors of Art in Social Welfare
Practice Location
Telehealth
Practice Philosophy
My practical view of the function of counseling is as a journey of
self-exploration by the client, meant to increase his/her level of
self-understanding and self-awareness. Explore to Understand to Act.
Areas of Expertise
Adoption, Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Violence, Separation and Divorce, Abuse and Neglect, Family/Relationship Issues, Parenting Issues, Children, Teens and Adolescents Issues, Behavioral Concerns, Education and School Related Issues
Treatment Specialties
Solution Focused – Brief Therapy
Board Certification & Organizations
State of Wisconsin Advanced Practice Social Worker
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction School Social Worker
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction School Administrator
Concentration
Adolescents, Teens, Families, Adults, Parents, Couples
Personal Interests
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family, especially my grandchildren, gardening and reading. I also like learning and being exposed to new things.
Mary Kafura, LPC
CLINICAL SUPERVISOR-CHILD THERAPY CLINIC
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
Masters of Science in Counseling, UW Madison
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, UW Madison
Practice Location
Children’s Place in Waukesha
Practice Philosophy
I am amazed at how resilient people are in the face of trauma, grief and loss,
stress, and other challenging life circumstances. I truly believe that each person
already has the resources and strengths within to move towards health, healing,
and happiness, and I am here to walk alongside on that journey. I work hard to
deeply understand children and families, their experiences, and the ways they
have learned to cope, in a non-judgmental, safe and supportive setting. I can
offer my knowledge and various strategies to address symptoms, which I'll invite people to practice in sessions. My treatment method is eclectic and based upon each client's unique needs. While I draw from traditional talk-therapy methods including CBT, I also incorporate art, movement, mindfulness, sand-tray and play therapy methods into treatment.
Areas of Expertise
Trauma, adoption, child sexual abuse, attachment issues, grief/loss, anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder, self-esteem, family issues including divorce, life transitions and adjustments, and challenges around being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)
Treatment Specialties
Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Play Therapy, EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Person Centered, LGBTQ + affirming, Theraplay-informed treatment, and Training in Adoption Competency
Board Certification & Organizations
Licensed Professional Counselor
American Counseling Association Member
Association for Play Therapy Member
Concentration
young children (3-5), elementary school age, preteens, teens, parents
Personal Interests
Playing with my kids, reading, running, arts and crafts, listening to and creating music.
Amy Krumenacher, MSCJ, MS, CSAC, LPC, EDIT,
ICS-IT
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
AODA SUPERVISOR
Education & Credentials
Bachelor of Science & Master of Science in Criminal Justice and
Psychology- University of Wisconsin Platteville
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling- University
of Wisconsin Whitewater.
Practice Location
Waukesha Clinic
School Services
Practice Philosophy
I am committed to creating a safe, secure and supportive environment in which clients can feel comfortable to grow and heal. I aim to help my clients improve and accomplish meaningful and positive life changes by becoming free from unwanted thoughts, behaviors, or feelings. I work with clients on affect regulation, mindfulness and improving thought patterns while educating and empowering them to make changes needed to lead a more fulfilling life.
Areas of Expertise
Conduct Disorder, Anger Management, Social Skills, Substance Use Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Depression, Bipolar, Relationships/Family Issues, Anxiety, and Mindfulness.
Treatment Specialties
I utilize a holistic approach that could include: Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Eating disorder intuitive therapy, Solution focused, Mindfulness, Trauma-Informed Care and EMDR.
Board Certification & Organizations
Licensed Professional Counselor
Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor
Independent Clinical Supervisor-in training
Editing Disorder Intuitive Therapist
American Counseling Association (ACA)
National Certified Counselor
Concentration
Adolescents, teenagers, adults, couples, families
Personal Interests
Being a mother of 2, coaching football and baseball, spending time with family and friends.