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.
Child Therapy Clinical Supervisor
Laura Pulsifer, LCSW, C-EMDR II, CIT
CHILD THERAPY CLINICAL SUPERVISOR
Education and Credentials
Bachelor’s in Social Work- Carroll University
Master’s Degree in Social Work - University of Nebraska-Omaha
Certified EMDR Therapist & Consultant-in-Training
Practice Location
Children's Place in Waukesha
Practice Philosophy
I began my career as a Psychiatric Social Worker/Family Therapist for the State of Nebraska in March of 1987 and continue to work with diverse groups, including children, families, teenagers, adults, couples, as well as various administrative and supervisory capacities. I take a realistic and optimistic approach with my clients from a Systemic, Structural, and A.I.P.(Accelerated Information Processing) perspective, often utilizing Greenwald’s “Fairy Tale Model”, when working with traumatized children. Humor is incorporated through all that I do and my work reflects my basic belief system that all children have a voice and deserve to be heard and believed.
Areas of Expertise
Trauma Resolution, Healthy Family Structure and Boundaries, Abuse Recovery, PTSD, Adjustment issues, Complex and Developmental Trauma
Treatment Specialties
EMDR Therapy -AIP (Adaptive Information Processing) Model, Child/Play therapy, Client-Centered, Adoption competency, Family Systems, Structural and Strategic Therapy
Board Certification and Organizations
LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in Wisconsin
NASW Member
Certified EMDR II Therapist
EMDR Consultant-In-Training
EMDRIA Member
TAC Trained (Training in Adoption Competency)
Concentration
All ages….. 3-103!
Personal Interests
Faith. Family. Friends….in that order….are what keep me going! I am a voracious reader, love to write, play various musical instruments, enjoy cooking, love to travel, and never EVER stop learning!
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
Waukesha Clinic
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.
Sarah Cartwright, LPC, ATR
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education and Credentials
Masters of Art Therapy in Counseling- Mount Mary University
Bachelors of Science in Counseling- Ashford University
Bachelors of Arts- Ashford University
Practice Location
Children's Place
Practice Philosophy
I work from a strength based approach. It is my goal to help build
off the skills and attributes that the clients may not yet be able to
see themselves. I make a point to meet all my clients where they are at in their stage of treatment. It is my goal to work alongside each client, providing guidance and support by listening to the needs of each person I see.
Areas of Expertise
Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Self-harm Behaviors, Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, High Functioning Autism
Treatment Specialties
Art Therapy, CBT- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT- Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person Centered, Mindfulness, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Board Certification & Organizations
Licensed Professional Counselor
Registered Art Therapist
Concentrations
Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults
Personal Interests
In my spare time I love to engage in creative activates. I enjoy watercolor painting, oil painting, collaging and crocheting. I also like to create in the kitchen where I learn new recipes and make them my own. I love traveling to new and interesting places. I love trying the local foods wherever I go.
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.
Lejla Elezovic, LPC
CLINICAL SUPERVISOR SCHOOL SERVICES
Education & Credentials
Master of Science in Community Counseling with Trauma
Certificate- University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee
Bachelor of Science in Psychology- Carroll College
Practice Location
Children’s Place in Waukesha
School Services
Practice Philosophy
I believe every individual is unique and each person has their set of
struggles. I use an eclectic approach to therapy and tailor my approach to each individual client. I work with children and families to help them discover their best selves. I incorporate play and art therapy in my sessions and practice using Cognitive Behavioral therapy as well as a person centered approach. I have experience in the child welfare system, as well as foster care and adoption. I am fluent in the Bosnian language.
Areas of Expertise
Behavioral, Developmental Disorders, trauma and mental health issues in children; parenting/family concerns; children with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other challenging issues.
Treatment Specialties
Cognitive behavioral, trauma focused, person centered, behavioral modification, solution focused, family systems, EMDR and Training in Adoption Competency.
Board Certification & Organizations
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), State of WI
National Certified Counselor (NCC)
Concentration
Children and adolescents ages 3 to 18 and families. LGBTQ youth.
Personal Interests
In my spare time I like to travel and discover new places and meet new people. I enjoy hiking and spending time with family and friends.
Catherine Gallagher, MA, LPC
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
MA, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Franciscan University of
Steubenville, Ohio
Practice Location
Oconomowoc
Practice Philosophy
My approach to counseling is collaborative. This means I work together with
each client to guide the clients on a personal and individualized process of
healing. Hope, honesty, and compassion are essential to the healing process.
Some of the approaches I draw from in my work include Cognitive Behavioral
Therapy, DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Narrative therapy, and the Collaborative Change model for working with victims of trauma.
Areas of Expertise
I work with people of all ages, ranging from children through adults. I have extensive experience in helping victims of trauma, including survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. I am also experienced in working with those experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress), grief and loss, life adjustment disorders and life transitions.
Treatment Specialties
Working with survivors of trauma and violence, EMDR. I am a Certified Christian Counselor so work well with those seeking Christian counseling.
Board Certification & Organizations
NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors)
Patricia Jahr, LPC-IT
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
Master of Arts, Education & Human Development, The George Washington
University, Washington D.C.
Practice Location
School Services
Practice Philosophy
I am passionate about helping people live their best lives. I believe that
people have the capacity to be resilient, to grow and change at any age and
that they are best suited to determine the pathway to a fulfilling life. I believe
that the therapeutic relationship is central to growth. Trust must be
established in order for change and growth to occur. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space for this to occur. I do not believe in a "one size fits all" approach. I believe every person is uniquely created and I adapt my cognitive behavioral theory to meet each unique situation. I believe that a person is a biological, social, psychological and spiritual being and that all of these aspects must be incorporated holistically.
Treatment Specialties
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person Centered therapy. I also incorporate play and art into my practice.
Concentration
Children through older adults.
Personal Interests
I enjoy running, hiking, kayaking, working-out, crocheting, reading and making jewelry. I love spending time with my family. I have been married for over 25 years, I have three children and two grandchildren.
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
Waukesha
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
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
Abuse and neglect, PTSD, attachment issues, grief/loss, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, stress management, family conflict, life transitions and adjustments, mindfulness, 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, culturally responsive.
Board Certification & Organizations
Licensed Professional Counselor
American Counseling Association Member
Concentration
3+
Personal Interests
Hanging out with my family and friends, reading, running and biking, crafting, yoga and meditation, animals.
Emilie Kay, MSW, LCSW
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
Bachelor’s in Social Work – University of Wisconsin Milwaukee
Master’s Degree in Social Work – University of Wisconsin Milwaukee
Practice Location
School Services
Practice Philosophy
I use an eclectic approach that is strength-based and person-centered and
incorporate evidence-based practices to help encourage positive change.
I strive to foster a warm and welcoming environment that provides a safe
space for personal sharing, healing and growing. I believe that as we learn to
better understand and accept ourselves, and our life experiences, we grow into stronger, healthier, more confident, and resilient individuals.
Areas of Expertise
Anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD), suicidal ideation, and behavioral and emotional problems.
Treatment Specialties
Trauma Informed Care, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Psycho-Education.
Board Certification & Organizations
Advance Practice Social Worker
Concentration
Children, adolescents, young adults and families
Personal Interests
I spend much of my time with my family and friends, particularly my beloved dog, Red. I love reading and watching comedies and psychological thrillers, attending live music (big or small venues!) traveling to new and familiar places, and exploring Wisconsin’s outdoors. I value my sense of humor, spontaneity and curiosity and like to try new things.
Sophia Klingbiel, LCSW
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
Masters in Social Work, George Williams College
Bachelor of Science in Social Work, Mount Mary College
Practice Location
Children’s Place in Waukesha
Waukesha Schools- Blair & Hadfield Elementary and South High School,
Wauwatosa- Madison Elementary
Practice Philosophy
I believe the client is the expert in their care and my job is to help them explore
possibilities. I look for strengths in every client. My approach is tailored to fit the needs
of my client, remaining open minded and using several modalities in order to explore my client's journey to personal growth. I will join you on your ride.
Areas of Expertise
Trauma and mental health issues in children, family/parenting concerns and skill building, mindfulness, and behavioral concerns.
Treatment Specialties
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Solution Focused, EMDR, and other modalities. I also enjoy incorporating art, music and play into my practice.
Board Certification & Organizations
Wisconsin State Licensed & Certified Social Worker (LCSW)
Member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
EMDR- Level II
Concentration
Children, Adolescents, Families
Personal Interests
During the weekend you can find me reading, hiking or engaging in something creative. I enjoy photography, painting and creating art through different materials. I am very social and spend a lot of time with my husband, friends, family and my numerous pets. I am also an avid traveler. I like to explore close to home for the weekend, or far away for an extended amount of time. I have been to numerous National Parks, different cities and a number of countries. I love visiting new cultures and meeting new people.
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 and Oconomowoc Clinics
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.
Jessica LeFevre, MS, LPC, BCBA
PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Education & Credentials
Licensed Professional Counselor- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Autism Studies Certificate Program -University of Mississippi-Lowell
Practice Location
Children's Place in Waukesha
Practice Philosophy
My professional expertise and passions include working with
children and families, fostering their education, and advocating for
their needs across school and community settings. I have extensive
experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder, complex developmental trauma, behavioral challenges and assisting parents to manage these challenges.
Areas of Expertise
Behavioral, Developmental Disorders, trauma and mental health issues in children; parenting/family concerns; children with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other challenging issues.
Treatment Specialties
Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Board Certification & Organizations
State of Wisconsin Licensed Professional Counselor
Board Certified Behavioral Analyst
Concentration
Children ages 5-17, young adults, parents and families