Our Providers
Jenny Strom, Director, MA, LPC
Education:
Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in counseling, 2008
University of Wisconsin - Madison, BA in Psychology with an emphasis on child development, 2005
Specialty Areas:
Jenny specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families by creating a safe context from which change can occur. Jenny is devoted to helping clients navigate their way through difficult life issues, whatever those may be, in order to heal. She uses a collaborative, systemic, and non-judgmental approach to therapy and believes in the power of validating people's lived experiences. Jenny is passionate about providing a welcoming and inclusive place for all and values meeting people where they are throughout the therapeutic process.
She has worked with clients to make positive and long-lasting changes around issues such as: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex trauma histories, Anxiety, Depression, Mental health and substance abuse, Child sexual abuse, Self-injurious behavior, Family violence/conflict, Grief and loss, as well as emotional, behavioral and relational problems affecting children. She also enjoys running therapy groups including: Anger Management, Parenting for Success, Survivors of sexual abuse, Survivors of Domestic Violence, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills Groups, and the like. She is intensively trained by the Linhan Institute in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and is a candidate for certification. She also has advanced training in Behavior Activation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (E/RP). Jenny serves on the board of REDgen and Ozaukee Family Services and cares deeply about their missions and their impact on the community.
Outside of doing what she loves every day, Jenny enjoys playing with her three tiny humans and extended family, camping, fishing, swimming, skiing, nature bathing, and soaking in the magic of live music!
"The capacity for hope is the most significant fact of life. It provides human beings with a sense of destination and the energy to get started." - Norman Cousins
Professional Memberships:
American Counseling Association
Craig Abrams, Ph.D.
Education:
University of Vermont, Ph.D. 1993
University of Wisconsin-Madison, B.S., 1987
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Abrams is a psychologist who works with children, adolescents, and adults. He treats a wide array of issues but concentrates most on: teen and adult eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders (obsessive-compulsive, panic, phobias, hair-pulling, and more), children's behavior, and collaborative divorce. Prior to living in Wisconsin, Dr. Abrams served as the director of clinical training, over-seeing the supervision of doctoral students at Chicago's Mount Sinai Hospital.
Judy Blumenfeld, Ph.D
Education:
B.S. Syracuse University, 1992
M.S. Ohio University, 1975
Ph.D. Ohio University, 1997
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Blumenfeld provides individual, couple and group psychotherapy for adolescents, young adults and adults. Dr. Blumenfeld additionally works with individuals experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, grief and loss as well as adjusting to divorce. Dr. Blumenfeld also works with individuals experiencing stress related to daily living issues including balancing the demands of work and managing family relationships.
Professional Memberships:
American Psychological Association
National Register of Health Science, Providers in Psychology
Wisconsin Psychological Association
Elliot Broch, Ph.D
Education:
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Ph.D., 2017
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, EdS., 2009
University of London- BSc, Psychology., 2002
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Broch is a licensed Psychologist with a specialty in School Psychology. He has worked with children and adolescents for over 13 years and is involved in the training and supervision of practicum psychologists at the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee.
Dr. Broch possesses significant experience in therapeutic interventions/counseling, consultation with parents and teachers and psychological evaluations. In addition, his expertise includes working with children and adolescents with Autism, social skill deficits, difficulties with executive functioning, learning disabilities, children with symptoms of defiance and aggression, ADHD and anxiety. His training has emphasized cognitive behavioral approaches, and he is trained in biofeedback, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Gestalt therapy.
Professional Memberships:
American Psychological Association
National Association of School Psychologists
Heartmath Institute
Terry Carr, LCSW, LSSW
Specialty Areas:
Terry has training in cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, interpersonal, anxiety reduction and family therapy techniques. Terry has worked extensively with issues such as ADHD, mood, anxiety, grief, school, illness, and eating disorders. In working with children and teens, Terry believes it is important to partner with parents and schools for systematic change. Terry has her masters degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She is dually licensed in clinical and school social work.
Julie Housiaux Caldwell, Psy.D.
Education:
Spalding University, Psy.D. - Clinical Psychology
University of Oregon, M.Ed. - Marriage and Family Therapy
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Caldwell is a licensed psychologist and a trained couples and family therapist. She has extensive training and experience working with older children and adolescents, as well as with adults experiencing significant life transitions. Dr. Caldwell additionally works with parents who are seeking support and guidance related to home-based challenges. Dr. Caldwell works with individuals who are working to cope with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma-related distress, as well as with individuals who are managing more persistent and long-lasting symptoms of emotional and psychological unrest. Dr. Caldwell believes that therapy is most effective when the therapeutic relationship is founded on warmth and genuineness, and clinical interventions are grounded in research.
In addition to clinical and psychological services, Dr. Caldwell also works as a child specialist/family mediator for families who are navigating the divorce and separation process. In divorce mediation, a neutral lawyer provides guidance related to the legal process, and a child specialist/family mediator helps to facilitate the creation of an informed, livable, and child-centered parenting plan. The child specialist/family mediator role is brief and goal-oriented, and focused on assisting parents in making joint decisions that are in the best interest of the family.
Chelsea Gilbertson, LCSW
“These pains you feel are messengers. Listen to them.” -Rumi
Education:
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Master of Social Work, 2014
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Bachelor of Science in Social Work, 2012
Specialty Areas:
Chelsea has over a decade of experience walking alongside individuals and families on their healing journeys. She specializes in working with child, adolescent and adult survivors of interpersonal trauma. Chelsea has several years of experience working within the VOCA (Victim of Crime Act) program providing specialized psychotherapeutic services to survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence. Chelsea also has extensive experience providing psychotherapy to individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, codependency, and ADHD.
Chelsea’s approach is intentional, playful, kind, body-centered and empowering. Chelsea believes in meeting individuals where they are and supporting them in finding and knowing their unique power, strength, and voice. Utilizing a mind-body approach, she guides individuals toward listening to the healing wisdom that lies within.
Chelsea has experience providing Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Chelsea has also received training in applied Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Chelsea is an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist.
Dina Gruber, LMT, AMTA
Specialty Areas:
Dina is a 2011 graduate of Lincoln College and a long standing member of the American Massage Therapy Association. With over 10 years of experience she is very skilled at identifying and treating pain and dysfunction in the body as well as providing a soothing environment that eases stress and anxiety. Each session is customized to a client's individual needs and Dina draws on multiple modalities such as Neuromuscular Technique, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Myofascial Release and Traditional Swedish Massage. She is an intuitive and compassionate therapist who is committed to providing the most relaxing and therapeutic session for each and every client.
Donna Laughrin, Ph.D.
Education:
University of Michigan Health System, Postdoctoral Fellowship in Clinical Neuropsychology, 2000
Lehigh University, Ph.D., 1999
University of San Diego, M.Ed., 1993
University of San Diego, B.A., 1992
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Laughrin provides neuropsychological assessment services to children, adolescents, and young adults. Her areas of specialization include developmental delays, learning disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Laughrin is also available for consultation with therapists, teachers, and other school professionals to assist in intervention planning.
Professional Memberships:
American Psychological Association
National Register of Health Service Psychologists
International Neuropsychological Society
Michael A. Mazius, Ph.D.
Education:
Illinois Institute of Technology, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychology, 1990
University of Illinois, B.S., 1979
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Michael Mazius specializes in the treatment of children with Attention Deficit Disorder, Academic Underachievement Syndrome, and stress and mood disorders. Dr. Mazius also provides marital and family therapy. Dr. Mazius is active in working with school systems providing teacher consultation and is active in the North Shore and Waukesha communities, speaking to parents on a wide variety of topics pertaining to child development, parent-child attachment and neuroscience-informed parenting. Dr. Mazius is an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Psychology at UWM-Milwaukee.
Professional Memberships:
American Psychological Association
Wisconsin Psychological Association
Angela Miller, LPC
Specialty Areas:
Angela is a passionate Professional Counselor who works with adolescents and children with anxiety disorders. She graduated UW-Whitewater's CACREP accredited Counseling Program in 2014.
Angela specializes in working with anxiety disorders. For five years she has worked under the supervision of nationally recognized exposure and response providers at Rogers Memorial Hospital. Exposure and response prevention, or ERP, is considered the most effective evidenced based treatment for OCD and OC spectrum disorders. It is also effective for other anxiety related disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, specific phobias, panic disorder, and PTSD. She became very passionate about helping children and adolescents with anxiety disorders when she personally saw the amazing outcomes from this treatment. It teaches children not to avoid anxiety but instead, to accept and challenge it, leading to behavior change, confidence, skill and success.
Throughout her career she has worked in many levels of care, including inpatient, residential, intensive outpatient, and outpatient. She looks forward to bring her passion and skillset to North Shore Center.
Brigid Miller, MFT-IT
Education:
Northwestern University - Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
University of Wisconsin-Madison - Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
Specialty Areas:
Brigid works with couples, families, individual adults, and adolescents with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, identity development, trauma, ADHD, perfectionism, family conflict, and addiction recovery. Her clinical background also includes couples and individuals navigating transitions or complex life stressors, LGBTQ+ couples and individuals, parents of special needs children, high performing professionals, and clients seeking more meaningful relationships or careers. With warmth, patience, and a dash of humor, Brigid draws upon numerous evidence-based treatment methods to tailor the best approach for each client.
Professional Memberships:
American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy
Robert F. Newby, Ph.D., ABPP-CN
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Newby provides neuropsychological evaluations for children ages 6-18 years. He has specialty interest in learning disabilities, as well as expertise in neurologic conditions such as brain injury. He served on the faculty in the Department of Neurology at the Medical College of Wisconsin for 35 years, and he is now affiliated part time with Pediatric Neuropsychology and Treatment Associates, S.C. as well as North Shore Center, LLC. He has given professional presentations in many settings, ranging from local schools, to the Mayo Clinic, to the Ostfold University College in Norway through the Fulbright Scholars Program. He is author of the book "Your Struggling Child: A Guide to Diagnosing, Understanding and Advocating for Your Child with Learning, Behavior or Emotional Problems" published by Harper Collins, as well as numerous professional publications. Dr. Newby is board certified in clinical neuropsychology.
Jennifer O'Brien, LPC
Education:
Loyola University, Chicago-Master’s in Counseling Psychology
John Carroll University- Bachelor’s in Psychology
Specialty Areas:
Jenni is a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience. She works with adolescents, adults and families within the following specialty areas:
· Depression and anxiety
· Female adolescent development
· Relational trauma
· Grief, Loss and Complicated grief
· Stress management
· Parenting
· Life Transitions
Jenni views therapy as a relational process between the therapist and client in which the needs of the whole individual are addressed collaboratively. Within this therapeutic relationship, we can explore how we connect and have connected with others, but also repair and restore our capacity to continue building connection with others. Therapy is also a place to continue to build one of the most important relationships we have, which is our relationship with ourselves. Jenni provides a nurturing, challenging environment for clients to learn, heal, and grow - thus maximizing the quality of one's being and functioning.
Community Involvement:
· Adjunct faculty member at Concordia University Wisconsin in Graduate Counseling Department.
· Assisted at Divine Savior Holy Angels (D.S.H.A.) Sophomore Risk Reduction Behavior Workshop. Facilitated discussion with parents about the data from the State Risk Behavior Survey and ways to proactively integrate this data into their parenting.
Nanette (Nettie) Palay, MSN, APNP, PMHNP-BC, CPNP-PC, PMHS, LMT
Education:
University of Wisconsin- Madison, Bachelors in psychology – Graduation with Distinction
Marquette University- Masters in Nursing as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Maryville University- Post Master’s Certificate as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Board Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Board Certified Pediatric Mental Health Specialist
Specialty Areas:
As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, board certified pediatric nurse practitioner and board certified pediatric mental health specialist, Nettie utilizes compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers the client to achieve their mental health goals. She provides supportive psychopharmacology (medication management) in combination with psychoeducation, psychotherapy, and family support to help the client thrive. She performs initial psychiatric assessments and medication management of chronic conditions including bipolar disorders, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, and other mood disorders. She provides a warm individualized approach that recognizes the many factors contributing to mental health. She has an extensive background in pediatrics, applying the flexibility and playfulness she learned as a pediatric nurse practitioner in primary care for over 11 years. She applies the mindfulness, stress management, and body-mind connection she learned as massage therapist for over 10 years. She recognizes that mental health is often misunderstood and often intimidating for the client and the families. She works with the client, the family, schools and other professionals to provide the best possible outcome for the client.
Professional Memberships:
American Psychiatric Nurses Association
National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners
American Nurses Association
American Massage Therapy Association
Laurie Pasch, LCSW, LMFT, DCSW
Education:
Master of Science of Social Work, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee School of Social Welfare, 1974
Clinical Internship - Children's Hospital of Wisconsin Psychiatry Center, 1972-1974
B.A. University of Wisconsin, Madison, 1972
Specialty Areas:
Laurie provides individual, family, marital and group psychotherapy and crisis intervention for children, adolescents, young adults and adults. Areas of expertise include emotional and behavioral problems, self-regulation and emotional control, school difficulties, divorce issues, loss bereavement and chronic illness. Laurie has extensive knowledge in play therapy with children and is recognized as a specialist in working with children, adolescents and young adults. Laurie enjoys working as a team with schools which include the teachers, guidance counselors, school psychologists, parents and students to achieve a successful outcome. Laurie approaches problems with an eclectic perspective using psychodynamic, supportive, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior and family system strategies. She is strategy based and uses a combination of psychodynamic play, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindfulness and supportive therapies.
Laurie is licensed in the State of Wisconsin as both an Independent Clinical Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist. She is also a Diplomat in clinical social work.
TMJ4 Interview with Laurie Pasch about Jayme Closs
Professional Memberships:
National Association of Social Workers
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists
Academy of Certified Social Workers
Wisconsin Association for Marriage and Family Therapists
www.breastcancermoms.com
Terri Peckerman-Stein, MSW, LCSW
Education:
Bachelors in Social Work - University of WI - Madison
Masters in Social Work - University of WI - Madison
Specialty Areas:
Terri provides therapeutic services to children, pre-adolescents, teens and adults, specializing in children/adolescents/young adults with behavioral and emotional issues. Terri has expertise in helping students and their families partner with and navigate school systems for students with various disabilities. Terri provides support on parenting issues, family conflict, depression, loss, managing relationships, stress, and issues of daily life. She also works with women who are experiencing life transitions.
Terri has been in practice for over 30 years. She is a licensed social worker and a licensed clinical social worker. Terri has been an adjunct professor at Concordia University for the past twelve years, teaching about special educational needs. She also has worked as a professor at Bethesda College, providing therapy and support for young adults with disabilites.
Sarah Platzer, LCSW
Education:
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Masters in Social Work, 2017
St. Norbert College, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, 2014
Specialty Areas:
Sarah specializes in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She works with clients who struggle with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. Sarah’s approach is client centered and her training has been heavily focused in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). When working with clients, Sarah strives to make them feel comfortable opening up. She believes balancing acceptance and change are imperative in the therapeutic process.
Prior to working at North Shore Center, Sarah worked for a large behavioral health organization for over 8 years. Sarah has worked with patients across many levels of care including inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient. She looks forward to bringing her passion of helping others to North Shore Center.
Kimberly Rennie (Weissgerber), Ph.D.
Education:
University of Minnesota Medical School, Fellowship in Pediatric Neuropsychology
Children’s Hospital-Minneapolis, Internship in Pediatric Psychology
Texas A&M University, Ph.D.
University of Houston-Clear Lake, M.A.
Texas A&M University, B.S.
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Rennie recently joined North Shore Center after previously serving on the faculty in the Department of Pediatrics at the Medical College of Wisconsin and in the Department of Pediatrics at University of Texas Medical School-Houston. She has given professional presentations in various professional settings and has authored numerous publications, including journal articles and book chapters on the impact of pediatric medical conditions on neurocognitive functioning.
Dr. Rennie provides neuropsychological evaluations for young children through college aged young adults. She has expertise in understanding the impact of medical conditions, on neurocognitive functioning, with specialty interest in prematurity and developmental disorders including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and learning challenges. Dr Rennie is available for consultation with school personnel to assist with educational planning as well as guidance on accommodations for standardized entrance exams.
Professional Memberships:
American Psychological Association
International Neuropsychological Society
Sammi Schams, Ph.D., LPC, SAC, NCC
Education:
B.S. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, 2011
M.S. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, 2015
Ph.D. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Current
Specialty Areas:
I see therapy as an opportunity to maximize an individuals' growth and potential. This growth stems from self-understanding and finding your places of empowerment within difficult situations. I hold licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC). I'm currently working to complete my doctorate in Counseling Psychology at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults who struggle with addiction and mental health concerns. I see this relationship as highly intertwined; oftentimes, problematic substance use stems from underlying mental health concerns. I've worked extensively with young adults and adolescent populations with diagnoses of substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, and social distress. In working with adolescents and young adults, I am amazed at the resilience and identity development that occurs at thist time of life. So often, this time of life can see dramatic improvement quickly as the individual chooses their path and works to develop an identity that aligns with their values.
Professional Memberships:
American Psychological Association
Teen Substance Use Video - E-Cigarettes, Alcohol, and Marijuana Demystified by Sammi Schams
Publications:
Budge, S.L., Orzechowski, M., Schams, S., Lavender, A., Onsgard, K., Leibowitz, S., & Katz-Wise, S.L. (2020). Transgender and gender nonconforming youths’ emotions: The appraisal, valence, arousal model. The Counseling Psychologist, 0011000020945051.
Fouad, N. A., Kozlowski, M. B., Singh, R., Linneman, N. G., Schams, S. S., & Weber, K. N. (2019). Exploring the odds: Gender differences in departing the engineering profession. Journal of Career Assessment, 28(3), 446-461, 1069072719876892.
Caroline Schmidt, Ph.D.
Education:
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, PhD in Counseling Psychology, 2007
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, MS in Community Counseling, 2002
Miami University (Ohio), BS in Business, 1997
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Caroline Schmidt is a licensed psychologist and experienced therapist. She helps people who are struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, mood disorders, and relationship problems. She uses a strength-based approach in psychotherapy, helping her clients understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact to affect their well-being. Dr. Schmidt helps them develop emotional intelligence so they are better able to cope with the stressors in their lives. She utilizes a variety of techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and emotion focused therapy. With those strategies, her clients begin to feel more confident, hopeful and fulfilled.
Dr. Schmidt received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She acquired clinical experience at Northwestern University, Marquette University, the Medical College of Wisconsin, and Aurora Psychiatric Hospital. Dr. Schmidt provides psychotherapy to individuals and couples, treating both adults and older adolescents.
Amy Schwabe, MS, LPC
Education:
Concordia University-Mequon, Master's Degree in Community Counseling
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Bachelor's Degree in Psychology
Specialty Areas:
Amy graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and graduated from Concordia University-Mequon with a Master's degree in Community Counseling. She provides individual, family, and group therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. Areas of interest include but are not limited to post traumatic stress, anxiety and depression, stress management, psychosocial and transitional issues of adolescents and young adults, and parenting/family support. Amy brings many "tools" into the therapeutic process, including art, music, and mindfulness training.
Amy brings a unique perspective to her consulting. Prior to entering the counseling profession she spent time as a firefighter/EMT and worked behind the scenes in a busy operating room. She trained several years in the peaceful martial art of Aikido and mindfulness and is a self-taught artist. Together, these experiences along with a personal knowledge of walking the road of healing blend into a philosophy that addresses both the biological aspects of healing as well as the importance of the body-soul-mind connection.
"I believe that the act of reaching out for help is the most courageous part of the healing journey. I am always honored when I am asked to be part of a person's path of healing. As a therapist, I believe in walking with a client as we together unfold their story. I am a new set of eyes; a new perspective. In the end-the power to heal is always within."
G. Nathanael Schwarz, Ph.D.
Education & Training:
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee PhD Clinical Psychology 2019
Rogers Behavioral Health (Child & Adolescent Services) Pre-doctoral Internship and then Fellowship 2018-2021 Center of Behavioral Medicine, Certified DBT Clinic
Psychology practicum 2017-2018
Rogers Memorial Hospital, Day Treatment Psychology practicum 2013
University of Virginia B.A. Psychology
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Schwarz is a licensed psychologist who specializes in the treatment of emotional and behavioral dysregulation ranging from suicidal and self-harm behaviors, depression and anxiety to defiance, aggression, ADHD related concerns and social skills difficulties. Dr. Schwarz works with children ages 5 and older, as well as adults.
He views treatment as a comprehensive effort by the client, their family and any associated professionals to work towards addressing presenting concerns. Dr. Schwarz helps clients move towards their goals with use of individual, family and group therapy; parent coaching, consultation team meetings, and consultation with schools, physicians, and other associated providers to support clients and meet them where they are.
Dr. Schwarz has received extensive training providing evidence-based treatment including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) since 2017 at various levels of care (outpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization) with tweens, adolescents, and adults.
Professional Memberships:
Wisconsin Psychological Association
American Psychological Association
Nina Sebastian Bredehorn, MSN, APNP, CPNP, PMHS
Education:
University of Wisconsin-Madison, B.S., Psychology and Sociology, 2007
Marquette University, B.S., M.S.N., Nursing, Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner, 2012
Board certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Board certified Pediatric Mental Health Specialist
Specialty Areas:
Nina is a board-certified nurse practitioner who specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents and young adults. She provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment for a variety of mental health conditions including but not limited to depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, and eating disorders. Nina provides medication management and utilizes individual and family therapeutic interventions when appropriate. She is also available to consult with schools and teachers when needed to develop individualized education plans or establish behavioral interventions for use in the school setting. Nina's caring nature, non-judgmental attitude, and strength-based therapeutic approach create an environment where patients and family members feel comfortable to speak openly about their struggles. She values a holistic approach to care that takes into consideration the unique psychological, biological, and social factors contributing to each patient's difficulties. Nina collaborates with families, therapists, primary care providers, and school professionals to assure the best outcomes for each individual. As she is also certified in pediatric primary care, Nina routinely evaluates for medical conditions that may be contributing to current behavioral or psychological concerns.
Professional membership:
American Psychiatric Nurses Association
Patti Suhr, LCSW
Education:
University of Michigan, MSW, Specialty in Clinical Practice with Children, Youth, and Families, 2011
Carthage College, Bachelors of Arts in Social Work
Specialty Areas:
Patti is a licensed clinical social worker and specializes in working with young children, youth, and adolescents and their families to create long standing change. She provides individual, group, and family therapy for those struggling with mood dysregulation, interpersonal conflict, communication, parenting and stress, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Patti seeks to identify strengths of the individual and family system and empower her clients to use those strengths to problem solve. Patti has a hands on approach, often utilizing art, experiential, and play therapy models to address client needs. Patti is also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Cheryl Ward, M.S.M., I.C.A.L.P., D.P.
Education:
ALTA-Certified Academic Language Practitioner, 2009
ALTA-Instructor of Academic Language Practitioners, 2017
CERI-Dyslexia Practitioner, 2016
Cardinal Stritch University, M.S., Business Management, 2008
University of St. Francis, B.S., Health Sciences 1982
Radiation Therapist
Specialty Areas:
Before working with and on behalf of students who struggle learning to read, Cheryl was an Oncology healthcare administrator for many years. Her interest in, education and knowledge about dyslexia resulted after her youngest son, unable to read, was diagnosed with dyslexia as a third-grade student. Cheryl attended meetings and workshops, read research journals, and networked with reading professionals as she helped her son gain reading mastery and complete his education.
Upon leaving healthcare in 2005, Cheryl trained to be a tutor for individuals with dyslexia using the Orton-Gillingham (OG) method. In addition to OG training, Cheryl trained in the supplemental phoneme to sound supplemental strategy, TLC "Lively Letters". Cheryl is a certified trainer of both the OG and Lively Letters strategies. Additionally, Cheryl advocates for students in school as part of the IEP team and can train teachers and others interested in evidence-based reading practices.
Cheryl is a former President of the Wisconsin Branch of the International Dyslexia Association and a founding member of the Wisconsin Reading Coalition (WRC). She also devotes volunteer time advocating for evidence-based reading practices for students and reading preparation and support for teachers to ensure all students will be lifelong literate participants in the intellectual process of gaining meaning from print.
Melissa Nelson, Ph.D
Education:
Regent University, PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, 2016
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, MS in Educational Psychology-Community Counseling, 2012
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, BS in Psychology, 2011
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Nelson is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults presenting with a wide array of concerns to include difficulties regulating emotion, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, suicidality, self-injurious behaviors, behavioral problems, post-traumatic stress, and challenges with daily stress. Dr. Nelson tends to be radically genuine in her approach towards treatment, striving to provide a validating and accepting environment while working towards behavioral change.
Dr. Nelson has been intensively trained by the Linehan Institute in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and has had extensive training in additional evidence-based practices to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Behavioral Activation (BA), behavioral modification, exposure therapies, and Prolonged Exposure (PE).
Prior to working with North Shore Center, Dr. Nelson served as the director of clinical services for a large behavioral health hospital. Throughout her career, Dr. Nelson has worked with patients across multiple levels of care to include inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient. In her free time, Dr. Nelson loves spending time outdoors and camping with her family which includes her husband, two daughters, and mammoth Goldendoodle named Mowgli.
Anne Spahr, Ph.D.
Education:
State University of New York – Buffalo, Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, 1992
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, B.A. in Psychology, 1986
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Anne Spahr is a clinical psychologist with extensive experience, including work in inpatient, outpatient, day treatment, residential, in-home, family court, juvenile court and university settings. She enjoys working with people of all ages in individual, couple, family or group formats. Areas of expertise include anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, trauma, divorce/custody, delinquency, self-esteem, assertiveness, and relationship dynamics. Dr. Spahr uses psychodynamic, family systems and cognitive behavioral formulations to help individuals better understand themselves, identify their unique strengths, and determine how to use their strengths to align their lives with their goals. She views therapy as a collaborative process in a safe space where individuals have the opportunity to hear themselves think and problem-solve while receiving feedback that is compassionate, yet challenging. Dr. Spahr regularly speaks on topics of stress and anxiety management, as well as self-esteem and assertiveness.
Professional Memberships:
Wisconsin Psychological Association
National Register of Health Service Psychologists
Raymond A. Gallope, Ph.D
We will always remember Dr. Raymond Gallope. Friend, colleague and co-founder of North Shore Center. He will be deeply missed.
Education:
Georgia State University, Ph.D., 1978
New School for Social Research, M.A., 1973
St. John's University, B.A., 1969
Specialty Areas:
Dr. Gallope provided individual, couple and family therapy for children, adolescents, young adults and adults. Dr. Gallope worked closely with school systems, treating children experiencing academic, emotional and behavioral problems. Dr. Gallope also provided Psychological Testing and Assessments. Dr. Gallope was active in the community providing speaking engagements, workshops and in-services for educational and clinical staffs.
Professional Memberships:
American College of Advanced Psychological Practices, American Psychological Association, American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, Wisconsin Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, Wisconsin Psychological Association, Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Psychiatry Medical College of Wisconsin
