Donna Altepeter, LCSW

Collaborative therapist focused on growth and healing

Client-centered approach
CBT and DBT skills
Experience with loss

About Donna Altepeter

Donna Altepeter earned her MSW - a Master of Social Work - from St. Louis University in 1983, completing a concentration in community mental health. She practices as a female therapist who centers her work on the client, drawing on specific therapeutic skills from cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy to support change.

Her practice includes extensive experience with life-threatening illness, bereavement and loss, and major life transitions, along with clinical work addressing anxiety and depression. She welcomes people across the lifespan and values each person’s capacity for change, approaching therapy as a collaborative process rather than a one-way instruction.

Having practiced since 1983, Donna brings long professional and life experience to her partnerships with clients. With more than 20 years of teaching in the University of Wisconsin Social Work program, her style blends education and therapeutic work, treating sessions as opportunities for mutual learning. She believes clients are their own best experts and works together with them to explore, discover, and foster growth and wellness, viewing it as an honor to accompany individuals on that journey.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Stress, Anxiety Grief Self esteem Depression Compassion fatigue

Also Specializes In

Addictions Relationship issues Family conflicts Trauma and abuse Intimacy-related issues Sleeping disorders Parenting issues Anger management Career difficulties Coping with life changes Coaching

Additional Focus Areas

Aging and geriatric issuesAttachment issuesCancerCaregiver issues and stressCodependencyCoping with natural or human-caused disasterDisruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)Divorce and separationForgivenessGuilt and shameHospice and end-of-life counselingInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMood disordersMulticultural concernsPostpartum depressionPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthPrejudice and discriminationSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-loveWomen's issues

Therapeutic Approach

Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Psychodynamic Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Donna Altepeter have?

Donna Altepeter has 12 years of experience.

Is Donna Altepeter a licensed therapist?

Yes. Donna Altepeter holds the LCSW credential. Her license is listed as WI LCSW 6641-123.

In which languages does Donna Altepeter provide therapy?

Donna Altepeter provides therapy in English.

Where is Donna Altepeter located?

Donna Altepeter is located in Wisconsin.

How can I work with Donna Altepeter as my therapist?

You can work with Donna Altepeter through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Donna Altepeter work with international clients?

Donna Altepeter does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Donna Altepeter cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Could Remote Therapy Be a Good Fit?

Many people wonder whether remote therapy can truly help. For a range of common concerns - such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or navigating life changes - online therapy has been shown to be just as effective as traditional in-person sessions for most people.

One of the main advantages is flexibility. Individuals can connect with therapists in the format that works best for them: video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or in-app messaging. That flexibility makes it easier to fit therapeutic work into busy schedules and to access support from diverse locations.

Licensed professionals provide these services, and clients may switch therapists at any time if they seek a different fit. For many people, remote therapy offers an accessible and practical way to pursue support and personal growth with qualified therapists.

Ready to start therapy with Donna Altepeter?

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