CHILD AND YOUTH THERAPISTS WITH A CARING, THOUGHTFUL APPROACH

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.”

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.”

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.”

Hailey joined Rawhide as a therapist in January 2025.

She earned her master of science in education-clinical mental health counseling degree from the University of Wisconsin-Superior and her bachelor's degree in psychology from Marian University. 

Before Rawhide, Hailey completed her graduate clinical internship with our organization. She also has experience working across multiple school districts, academies, and youth programs. Through these experiences, she developed a strong passion for supporting youth, particularly those impacted by trauma. She has seen the powerful impact that a consistent, positive, and supportive relationship can have on a youth's resilience, emotional and mental well-being, and development.  

At Rawhide, she works with youth, adolescents, and families in a school-based setting. She utilizes a variety of therapeutic approaches, including art-based and play therapy techniques, while incorporating concepts from strength-based, client-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other practices.

“When youth feel seen and supported, incredible growth can happen. I'm grateful to work for an organization that shares those values and allows me to do the work I deeply care about.”

Ruthie joined Rawhide as a therapist in May 2025.

She earned her master's in social work with an emphasis on mental health from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

Before Rawhide, Ruthie worked with the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County as an at-risk youth mentor, where she found her passion for the youth population. She assisted youth with Individual Skill Development and Enhancement (ISDE), basic living skills, Social Emotional Learning activities (SEL), and mentored youth in schools with homework or social relationships. 

At Rawhide, she provides therapy services to youth, adolescents, and families struggling with specific mental health needs. 

"Upon graduation, I knew I had to find somewhere that works with at-risk youth and helps me grow in my faith in God. When I found Rawhide, I knew this was the place for me. I believe in meeting kids where they are at and working from a trauma-informed lens. Rawhide gives me that ability all while serving my faith." 

Angelina re-joined Rawhide as a therapist in May 2025. She previously worked at Rawhide from 2021-2023. 

She earned her master's in clinical mental health counseling (emphasis in military families and culture) from Walden University. She also has her bachelor's degree in psychology and biology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Outside of Rawhide, Angelina worked for Waupaca County as an outpatient therapist with various ages and diagnoses and on various teams of people (CCS and CLTS). She also spent time doing contracted equine-assisted therapy work with youth, as well as a telehealth role with adults. 

At Rawhide, she provides therapy services to youth, families, and young adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, attachment issues, and more. She also provides equine-assisted psychotherapy and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. 

"Rawhide's mission to serve at-risk youth and their families has always been close to my heart. Supporting youth as they navigate and heal from trauma and challenging experiences is a privilege that I don't take lightly. Something unique about Rawhide is the access to equine, an addition to the therapy team that I wholeheartedly believe in, trust, and lean into." 

Lauren re-joined Rawhide as a therapist in June 2025. She previously worked at Rawhide from 2016-2020. 

She earned her master's in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and her bachelor's at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Outside of Rawhide, Lauren worked in youth justice as an ongoing social worker and an anti-human trafficking regional specialist through a grant from the Department of Children and Families. She also spends time as a Motivational Interviewing Network Trainer who trains professionals around the state at conferences or classrooms through the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

At Rawhide, she provides therapy services to youth, families, and young adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, sexual violence/exploitation/human trafficking, and adolescents involved in the child welfare and youth justice system. 

"I chose to work at Rawhide, again, because of the supportive environment, the ability to focus on youth and their families, and the quality of people that you get to work alongside as colleagues." 

Mary joined Rawhide as a therapist in June 2025. 

She earned her master's in clinical mental health counseling and her bachelor's in psychology with a specialization in childhood and adolescent studies from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Outside of Rawhide, Mary worked with children and adolescents in school and community-based counseling, and a Christian campus organization that helps college students grow in their faith. 

At Rawhide, she provides therapy services to youth, families, and young adults struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, and more. Mary uses relational and emotion-based approaches with mindfulness to help clients learn coping skills and work through any mental health or life struggles.  

"I wanted to work with youth and families in an environment that cares for and supports not only those it helps, but also the community and its workers. Rawhide gives me an amazing opportunity to use my faith in a caring environment and work with the population I love and feel passionate about." 

Lauren joined Rawhide as a therapist in June 2025. 

She earned her master's in professional counseling with an emphasis in clinical mental health counseling and her bachelor's in human services leadership from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Before Rawhide, Lauren provided mental health support to individuals who were incarcerated. She also has experience working with families facing the challenges of homelessness and displacement. 

At Rawhide, she provides therapy services to youth, families, and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, eating disorders, conduct disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma. 

"Listening to someone’s story is one of the most meaningful ways to honor someone’s humanity. It fosters connection, trust, and healing. To me, I always value the strength it takes when someone is willing to be vulnerable and share their story. Rawhide gives me the support to meet clients where they are and walk alongside them in their journey toward hope and healing."