Tara Ellestad, LPC

AdultsAdolescentsCouplesFamiliesChildren

Jun 13

Written By Tara Ingalls

Licensed Professional Counselor

Licensed States: Wisconsin

Years of Experience: 24 years

New Patient

Current Patient

I’ve always been a people person, and from a young age, pursuing a career where I could help others felt natural for me. For the past 24 years I have worked as a mental health therapist, and I believe it is a privilege to support clients through some of the hardest moments in their lives while also getting to witness their strength, growth, and healing along the way.

Outside of my work as a therapist, one of my greatest joys is being a mom and supporting my children in their activities and sporting events. Being present for those moments is very important to my husband and me, and over the years we have made volunteering and coaching youth sports a priority. I also enjoy traveling, spending time with family and friends, simply being at home enjoying life’s quieter moments and playing volleyball, which is a fun and energizing way for me to stay active and connected.

Clinical Approach

My approach as a therapist is collaborative, client-centered, and grounded in communication. I strive to create a space that feels supportive, comfortable and welcoming, where clients can show up as themselves without fear of judgement. I’m warm, friendly, empathetic and humorous to help clients feel more at ease.

In sessions with me, clients can expect to be both supported and gently challenged as we work together to build insight, develop coping tools and navigate through life’s most difficult situations. My goal is to help my clients feel empowered, understood and capable of moving towards meaningful growth.

Who I Work With

I work with children, teens, adults and older adults facing a wide range of concerns and life challenges. My areas of focus include life transitions, depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss, trauma, women’s issues and relationships. I also support clients navigating alcohol use and other emotional or situational stressors

Education

Winona State University 1996-2000, BS Social Work

University of Wisconsin-Platteville 2000-2002, MS Counseling

Previous Medical Social Worker-member of an interdisciplinary healthcare team to advocate for patients needs, provided direct patient care and emotional support to patients experiencing acute illness in a hospital setting, provided crisis intervention, discharge planning, served as head of the Ethics committee and worked closely with families navigating grief, chronic illness and end of life concerns.