CHILD AND YOUTH THERAPISTS WITH A CARING, THOUGHTFUL APPROACH

Gabrielle Boehrig, MSE, LPC, SAC-IT, NCC, is a Clinical Therapist Supervisor at our Fond du Lac and Milwaukee counseling centers.

She earned her master’s degree in professional counseling and her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Before Rawhide, Gabrielle gained experience in inpatient behavioral health units and domestic violence services. She also worked with adults, teens, and families as a dual diagnosis clinician in the Oshkosh area providing individual and group therapy with an emphasis on AODA.

Today, Gabrielle helps families and individuals of all ages and backgrounds reconnect and heal through an empathic approach focusing on the whole person and existing system. Gabrielle utilizes cognitive behavioral interventions along with equine therapy to rewrite unhelpful narratives while incorporating caregivers for longstanding change.

“I found Rawhide after discovering I wanted to help youth break familial patterns and begin to heal from trauma prior to adulthood. I have always felt at peace with equine and being able to combine therapy and horses is a dream come true.”

Teresa joined Rawhide as a lead therapist in August 2022.

She earned her master’s degree in art therapy from Mount Mary University and her bachelor’s degree in art education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Before Rawhide, Teresa worked as a high school art educator, a full-time therapist and piloted an art therapy program for students with emotional and behavioral challenges in Milwaukee Public Schools. She also worked at a residential and outpatient organization for women and their children in alcohol and other drug abuse (AODA) rehabilitation.

At Rawhide, Teresa oversees a team of therapists providing mental health services to youth and their families in the Milwaukee Public School District, out of the Milwaukee Counseling Center in Glendale and at Milwaukee Urban Stables. Using a combination of psychoeducation and expressive therapy techniques rooted in trauma-informed practices, wellness approaches in a safe space, and guidance in finding the right tools and unconditional support, Teresa believes everyone can create the lives they were gifted.

“I grew up seeing television commercials for Rawhide when I was younger. I became reacquainted with Rawhide a year ago when working with Milwaukee Urban Stables, where I was piloting a small group of students to see the benefit horses could have on their mental health needs. When I learned Rawhide was hiring therapists, I applied knowing it was an opportunity to continue serving the dismissed youth population I grew to care for because of my own family’s misunderstood journey. The combination of equine-assisted and occupational therapies with psychotherapeutic services sounded like a dream come true. As I continue to witness the steps Rawhide is taking to grow and expand its services and outreach, I knew I wanted to be a part of it and use the best practices possible. It is all my heart ever wanted to do, and I get to be around horses!”

Kathy joined Rawhide as an outpatient therapist in November 2013.

She holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Before Rawhide, Kathy worked with children and families involved with Child Protective Services and Juvenile Court Services. She also has experience working with serious mental illness, issues specific to the elderly, and those who have had head injuries or strokes. She worked many years as the co-leader of a marriage program that focuses on strengthening marriages, mentoring couples and more.

Kathy works with Rawhide youth, families, individuals and couples who are struggling with sexual abuse, grief/loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression and trauma recovery. She specializes in marital and family issues, and is trained in Brainspotting, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and is EAGALA certified in the practice of equine-assisted therapy.

“Rawhide matches my values of leading with empathy, compassion and listening. Through its many services, Rawhide reflects an unwavering hope for healing all who walk through our doors. Our emphasis on working with, not just individuals, but the whole family or support system is critical.”

Lisa Behnke, MA, LPC, is a therapist at our Appleton Counseling Center.

She has a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Trinity International University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from William Smith College in New York.

At Rawhide, she works with youth, women, and married couples struggling with depression, anxiety or relationship difficulties. Additionally, she helps clients with conflict resolution, anger management, parenting, oppositional defiance, Christian spiritual development, conduct disorder, ADHD and grief/loss. Lisa is also trained in CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and is a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC).

“I love connecting with people and feel passionate about showing the love of Christ to those who are hurting and helping them carry their burdens, connecting them to positive resources, speaking truth, and encouraging them in my counseling sessions. I enjoy teaching and counseling about healthy relationships and healthy decision making while providing hope and motivation towards health and healing.”

Dorothy joined Rawhide as a social worker in the living units in 2002 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in 2011.

She has a master’s degree in social work (MSW) with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

She joined the Rawhide team after graduating with her BSW in 2002 and started working in the residential and foster care programs. She earned her MSW in 2007. After completing the required hours, she officially became a therapist at Rawhide in 2011.

Dorothy specializes in working with children placed in foster care and children who have been adopted, as they work through strengthening relationships, attachment, anger management, conduct disorder, conflict resolution, anxiety, depression and problem-solving skills. She also integrates biblical principles and truths into her practice to assist in the healing and change processes for her clients.

“I love working at a Christian-based organization and using the gifts God has given me to serve clients by showing them tools and skills, and instilling hope for a better future.”

Ashley joined Rawhide as a therapist in June 2021. 

She earned her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and her bachelor’s in psychology from University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Before Rawhide, she completed her internship at YScreen, assessing the emotional health of teens in the Fond du Lac area.

At Rawhide, she provides traditional, equine-assisted and school-based therapies. Using a therapeutic, person-centered approach, she tailors her approach to meet each individual’s needs. Ashley believes focusing on establishing a therapeutic relationship and creating an environment of acceptance and non-judgment is critical to facilitating growth and self-acceptance. She is EAGALA certified in the practice of equine-assisted therapy.

“I grew up in the Fox Valley and have always heard about Rawhide through people in my community. As I developed in my professional career, I learned that Rawhide provided a variety of unique opportunities to make a real and positive difference in the community. I have a passion for working with youth. I enjoy creating a space for youth to express themselves authentically and promote healing through our therapeutic connection. Throughout the interview process, everyone at Rawhide was so kind and inviting. I felt like I made a great decision to become part of the team at Rawhide.”

Nathan joined Rawhide as a youth homes manager in 2019. He completed his internship at Rawhide, working in intake and community programming. In August 2022, Nathan began working as a therapist.

He earned his master’s degree in social work with an emphasis in children, you and family practice and school social work from the University of Southern California (USC) and earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from St. Norbert College.

Before Rawhide, Nathan provided services to at-risk youth at multiple agencies, including Family Services, CESA 6 and Macht Village.

At Rawhide, Nathan provides youth and their families with school-based therapy in the Waupaca and New London school districts, as well as traditional talk therapy at our Appleton Counseling Center. He has a lot of experience working with youth who struggle with significant trauma and uses motivational interviewing techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and family work in his therapy sessions.

“I was an at-risk youth growing up and had a few significant people who helped me make good choices and stay out of trouble. Since then, I have wanted to live my life such that I can be a resource to youth who may be in need.”

Sarah joined Rawhide as a therapist in October 2022.

She earned her master’s degree in clinical psychology from Cardinal Stritch University and her bachelor’s degree in psychology and neuroscience from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Before Rawhide, Sarah worked for a mental health agency in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents and adults within the county system and community. She has also provided crisis services in Winnebago County and alcohol and drug services to men and women in an inpatient facility.

Today, Sarah works with outpatient youth, adults, families, groups and couples who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and personality disorders. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma- Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).

“When it was time to relocate from Rice Lake, I was drawn to Rawhide’s mission and community outreach. It wasn’t until orientation that I realized how much it actually does for the communities it serves. I was instantly excited for a team that cares so much for their community and their staff.”

Jasmine joined Rawhide as a therapist in July 2021.  

She earned her master’s degree in clinical rehabilitation and mental health counseling from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and her bachelor’s degree in business management with minor in kinesiology from Iowa State University.

Before Rawhide, Jasmine completed an internship at Carolina Outreach, where she delivered a wide range of services to individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) and substance use disorders. She provided psychoeducation to individuals and families regarding diagnoses and implemented psychiatric rehabilitation plans to assist with symptom stabilization, improve activities of daily living and increase coping skills.

At Rawhide, Jasmine provides traditional and equine-assisted therapy services to youth and their families at the Fond du Lac Counseling Center and school district. She is EAGALA certified in the practice of equine-assisted therapy. Jasmine is passionate about creating an open and empathic space to make a difference, using a person-centered therapeutic approach to tailor treatment to the specific needs of the individual.

“Rawhide Youth Services provides me with the opportunity to support youth and through the challenges they are facing. I strive not only to be an advocate for youth, but to empower them to make positive changes in their lives, form healthy relationships, and see the light within themselves. I am privileged to work alongside a group of individuals dedicated to the same mission of selflessly serving all individuals we encounter.”

Tabitha joined Rawhide as a therapist in June 2023.

She earned both her master’s degree in social work and her bachelor’s degree in anthropology and psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Before Rawhide, Tabitha worked in many different areas of social work, largely focused on programs pertaining to at-risk youth, mental health, domestic violence, and community-based social services.

At Rawhide, she provides office-based, school-based, and equine-assisted therapy. Tabitha is very passionate about diving into research and utilizing a wide variety of approaches to help her clients meet their treatment goals. It’s important for her to use a trauma-informed and person-centered approach that intentionally focuses on everyone’s unique needs and circumstances, while also harnessing their own inherent strengths and abilities to solve their challenges.

“I have always had a passion for working with at-risk youth. As a troubled youth myself, I always aspired to be the person I needed at that age. In a world riddled with hardships, loss, trauma, and wide-stretched pain, we need now, more than ever, to remind our youth they are not alone. Rawhide gives me the ability to do that and remind our youth how incredibly resilient and capable they are.”

Caleigh joined Rawhide as a therapist in August 2022.

She earned her master’s degree in clinical mental health and her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and psychology from Lakeland University in Plymouth.

Before Rawhide, she provided in-home youth and family therapy with Lutheran Social Services for four years.

At Rawhide, she provides therapy to youth and families, using a therapeutic, person-centered approach based on each individual’s needs. She also provides equine-assisted therapy, and works in the schools, helping students through their mental health struggles.

“I chose Rawhide because I love working with this population. I also have a strong passion for horses, so the equine-assisted therapy service Rawhide offers sounded like a dream come true. Who wouldn’t want to be able to combine two of their passions into one? When this opportunity came up, I took advantage of it instantly. I believe that everyone is capable of finding ways to live a happy and healthy life and, it is important to remember, we are all human and we make mistakes, but that does not mean we are bad people.”

Kari joined Rawhide as a therapist in September 2021.

She earned her master’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and her bachelor’s degree in psychology and human services from St. Norbert College.

At Rawhide, Kari provides therapy to children, youth, adults, and families. As a therapist, Kari uses a strength-based, trauma-informed, and client-centered approach. She believes in empowering the individual to overcome life’s challenges.

Kari specializes in youth wellness and has a passion for empowering teens to embrace body positivity and develop healthy coping skills. She excels in guiding individuals to challenge negative beliefs for lasting behavioral change.

“I have worked in the mental health field for more than 10 years. When I was looking for a new opportunity, I was mindful of who I wanted to be employed by. My heart feels so connected to Rawhide because I believe in the mission and values. I believe that each individual working for Rawhide demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the communities we serve. I consider myself lucky to be employed by such a thoughtful organization.”

Nicki joined Rawhide as a therapist in the Green Bay clinic in September 2022.

She earned both her master’s degree in social work with an emphasis in advocating for diverse populations in mental health settings and her bachelor’s degree in social work with an emphasis in child welfare and a minor in human development from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Before Rawhide, she was a social worker for Outagamie County, working with children, youth and families to ensure the safety of children. She also worked as lead assessor for Willow Creek Behavioral Health working with adults and adolescents who struggle with behavioral health needs. Throughout her social work career, Nicki has worked with many different age groups and populations.

At Rawhide, Nicki provides outpatient therapy to children, youth, adults and families. As a therapist, Nicki uses a strengths-based, trauma-informed and client-centered approach. Nicki is also trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She strives to empower her clients and support them in their journey towards healing.

“Throughout my social work career, I worked with Rawhide in different capacities. Because of this experience, when I was looking for a career that was going to coincide with my personal and professional values, I knew Rawhide was the organization I was looking for. Rawhide has a team of people who are empathetic and committed to helping children, youth and families; and I couldn’t feel more grateful to be a part of the team.”

Savanna joined Rawhide as a therapist in June 2023.

She earned both her master’s in social work and her bachelor’s in psychology with an emphasis in mental health from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Before Rawhide, Savanna found her love for working with at-risk youth while interning in the Social Emotional Learning Department at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Green Bay.

At Rawhide, she provides outpatient therapy to youth, adolescents, and families in multiple settings including in office, schools, and other outside organizations. Savanna uses a client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach to help youth develop the skills necessary to survive and thrive in life.

“While there are a million places that offer therapeutic services, Rawhide stood out to me because of its incredible organizational values that resonate heavily with me. I love working for a place that operates out of a place of unconditional love with a strong commitment and dedication to serving its community. I am beyond grateful to be a part of the Rawhide family.”

Becca joined Rawhide as an outpatient therapist in September 2017.

She holds a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Marquette University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Before Rawhide, Becca worked on the adult and child/youth units at Rogers Behavioral Health.

She is also licensed as a substance abuse counselor and is trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She has experience working with children, youth and adults in outpatient settings.

Becca helps individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, self-esteem, relationships, trauma and more. Becca also provides school-based therapy at the Milwaukee Academy of Science.

“I was drawn to the mission of Rawhide and wanted to be able to help individuals from different backgrounds who are at risk or struggling with the difficulties of life and mental illness.”

Sarah joined Rawhide as a therapist in August 2023.

She earned her master’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and her bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Prior to joining Rawhide, Sarah spent 15 years working in the child welfare field, having spent most of her time within the foster care and adoption systems.

At Rawhide, Sarah provides outpatient therapy to students in the Oshkosh School District. She is drawn to working with adolescents as she finds them to be incredibly insightful and authentic. She has found that sometimes, all it takes, is one person believing in and supporting you to alter your life course. Having experienced this herself, she hopes to pay this forward with the youth she works alongside.

“As a Rawhide therapist, I hope to leave a positive, long-lasting impression with my clientele. I want them to know that I will always be rooting for them, and I want to be someone who walks right next to them during their darkest of days and helps them emerge and transform into successful and resilient individuals.”

Jessie joined Rawhide as a therapist in August 2023.

She holds a master’s of science degree in professional counseling with a dual concentration in clinical mental health counseling and school counseling from Mount Mary University. Jessie also holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Taylor University.

Before Rawhide, Jessie worked in the social services field, assisting children, adolescents, and their families in connecting with local mental health services.

At Rawhide, Jessie will see her clients at our Glendale office, as well as in the two schools where she provides counseling services. She will work directly with youth, adolescents, and families who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger management, grief/loss, sexual behavior problems, life transitions, traumas, and suicidal ideation.

“I have always been drawn to listening to peoples’ stories and offer support when I can. I knew I wanted to deepen my skillsets in providing a safe place for individuals to come and just be who they are without judgment. I consider it an honor to be a part of clients’ journeys in strengthening their wellness and well-being in a healthy manner.”

Kylie joined Rawhide as a therapist in August 2024.

She earned her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy at Capella University and her bachelor’s degree in psychology and human relations at University of Iowa.

Before Rawhide, Kylie has been a licensed marriage and family therapist since December 2022 and previously a daycare teacher. At Rawhide, she works with youth, adolescents, and families. Utilizing a variety of counseling theories, Kylie helps her clients through play therapy and works with them to process trauma. She is also trained in EMDR.

Kylie believes it’s important for her clients to feel supported and understood in every step of their healing journey. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express themselves freely, explore their emotions, and build resilience.

“I’m passionate about advocating for children and their families. By working in schools, I can ensure they have easier access to therapy, especially when busy schedules or limited resources might have kept them from getting the support they need.”

Alex joined Rawhide as a therapist in October 2024.

He earned his master of social work degree from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities with a concentration in clinical mental health and his bachelor of science degree in psychology and criminology from Missouri State University.

Before Rawhide, Alex worked in a group home for teenagers transitioning out of the juvenile justice system and helping them reacclimate to their community. He also worked in a children’s day treatment center where he did group and
individual therapy with youth who experienced trauma.

At Rawhide, he works with youth, adolescents, and families—especially those with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Utilizing a variety of counseling theories, Alex also helps his clients through play therapy and CBT. Alex understands the importance of working with youth who experienced trauma and finds passion leading them to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

“I enjoy building relationships with youth who need it most and can see how beneficial those relationships can be in their lives. I want to continue building relationships and ultimately set them up to reach, and exceed, their goals.”