Megan Rische, LPC

Connection with yourself can create healing and happiness and I am here to help guide you on your path while witnessing you standing in your power and taking your life back. Transitions and change can be scary but we start to grow and adapt when we accept that change is the only constant. When we start to have acceptance of our ever changing world and selves we start to embrace our deepest selves so we can fully live in our insightful, courageous, authentically diverse bodies, minds and souls.

I am here to help remind you that the darkest parts of ourselves are temporary building blocks to stand on top of to get closer to our truest, most successful and happy self. We all have many chapters to our lives that are written for a purpose. I will help you see each chapter with more grace and understanding so you can continue to write your next chapters through a new lens filled with light, attunement and gratitude.

I specialize in EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. This modality of treatment has helped me care for clients who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, abuse, substance use, etc. I will use mindfulness based techniques to help regulate your nervous system in ways you potentially have never experienced before. I also use neurobiological techniques that will focus on your thought processes, emotions and physiological reactions to help you better understand the ways you have responded in the past to then shift that to healthy ways to adapt to your present and future.

I am here to help you unlock your best self that you have carried with you your whole life. I have the tools to share - let's get to work!

Feel free to reach out to our administrative assistant, Denise, at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

Aaron Homan, LPC

With over 15 years in the field, I feel empowered, eager, and fortunate to be working with individuals that possess strengths and skills to move forward in their lives. I was born and raised in Kenosha and it is my duty is to work collaboratively with people to establish a peaceful, respectful and empathic relationship. Drawing on years of experience and familiarity with a number of therapeutic styles and interventions such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, holistic therapies and mindfulness and meditation, I continue to be amazed at a client’s ability to grow.

Every person has the power to change, regardless of personal, historical and relational challenges.

It's my intention to equip clients to develop their own self-awareness, compassion, clarity, internal sense of peace so they can continue to move forward and experience more meaningful lives. I enjoy the outdoors, spending time with my family, the Chicago Cubs, playing and listening to music, reading and practicing meditation. This directly informs my work and understanding of the human spirit.

Feel free to reach out to our administrative assistant, Denise, at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

Emily Michaels, LPC

In a world filled with ups and downs, highs and lows, suffering and succeeding, we experience continuous growth throughout our lives whether we are ready for it or not. Sometimes the rollercoaster of life catches us off guard and we may feel unprepared to handle change. Other times we see the ups and downs coming from a mile away, and we may run from it because it’s something new and undiscovered. I want to be there to help you process through whatever changes, struggles, or successes you are experiencing to help you grow and become someone you feel comfortable and confident being. During our time together, I want to build on your strengths, provide you with education and resources on how to take care of yourself and your mental health, and help you process through difficult emotions, situations, and relationships. As we move through this journey together, I’ll be the one learning from you because no one knows yourself better than you do! Whatever concern you come to me with, I want you to know that I am here to give you a safe and supportive space for you to share your experience with me.

I have extensive experience working with diverse populations from a multitude of multicultural backgrounds, ages, and gender and sexual orientations. I specialize in a variety of diagnoses including Mood and Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Substance Use Disorders and addiction recovery, Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorders, and Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders. I practice using an eclectic approach that comes from a strength-based perspective and utilizes techniques from person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and when working with younger clients, play therapy.

Feel free to reach out at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

Jeremy Schmidt, LPC

Counseling is a collaborative process, and I aim to help by making it a priority to build a trustful, open, and safe relationship. Everyone deserves the chance to speak and be heard in order to have best possible chance to lead a fulfilling and rewarding life. My goal for every session is to listen and understand what makes you unique. We will work together to emphasize the strengths and values you already possess to find motivations and to set and achieve goals that will be meaningful for your life.

I specialize in working with individuals with Eating Disorders and eating concerns, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, trauma, Phobias, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and self-esteem concerns. I use a combination of evidence-based treatments including Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy to help you build a skillset to aid with managing and coping with stressful situations. Therapy is highly individualized to incorporate personal values, strengths, and resources to give you the best opportunity to succeed wherever you are in your journey.

Prior to counseling, Jeremy worked for 4 years as an anxiety lab manager and has been published in multiple journals for his work on anxiety, OCD, and appearance concerns. Recently, he has worked at various Eating Disorder treatment centers and completed his graduate internship at a nationally renowned center for Eating Disorders and OCD.

Feel free to reach out at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

Becky Sorensen, LCSW

Today’s world presents unique challenges, making it easy to feel unsteady. While we can’t control the world around us, we can control how we face it. To do this we must practice self-care. We need the right tools in our toolbox and to discover what motivates us. I use a strengths based approach to help you discover your best self and how to be your own advocate. I have trained extensively in crisis management, and have spent my career walking with people through their most difficult times. My specialties include Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, grief and loss, as well as addiction and recovery. 

If you are interested in alternative forms of therapy, such as art, music, pets, nature, essential oils, or other adjuncts then let’s explore that together.

I am not the expert; you are! You are the captain of your ship. I’m here to help you navigate and keep it afloat. You know yourself best and my job is to support you. I see therapy as a collaborative effort; we will set goals and brainstorm ways for you to achieve them. Together we’ll set sail on your journey. 

Becky is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) whose training includes a Master’s degree in Social Work. She is also a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).

Feel free to reach out at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

Lexy Ulrich, LPC

Sadness, stress, and shame tend to multiply in our hearts when we put off dealing with what’s causing them. This avoidance is something like a “miracle grow” for all the pain in our lives. And the only way to counteract it is through a moment of courage when you finally face what’s standing in your way.

I’m here so that you don’t have to take that first step alone. My therapeutic approach helps your heart and mind work together to approach the problems in your life with education, emotional insight, and a full repertoire of coping skills and self-care strategies.

I draw from evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Response Prevention, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Existential Therapy to help you access whatever you need or are missing the most in your life.

I specialize in presenting issues relating to anxiety, include Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety, General Anxiety and Phobias. I also work with depressive symptoms due to Grief, Loss, and Major Adjustment, as well as relationship distress between spouses or partners. I particularly love working with teens, for the above issues and for self-esteem, bullying, and school concerns. I have practiced therapy for over five years, seeing individuals, couples, teens, and young adults.

Feel free to reach out at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

McKenzie Endsley, LPC

Children who experience hardships and trauma can often feel lost, broken, and confused. While these events can cause many obstacles and aversive symptoms, therapy can be a gateway to healing from traumatic events. I am passionate about helping teens and children work through their trauma in order to not have it dictate their relationships and lives. I find that through this process, relief can be found with a strong counseling relationship and familial support. While trauma and stress can have a great impact on a child, therapy and counseling can greatly improve the well-being of a child’s life.

I have been working as a counselor with children and their families for nearly five years. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor trained in Advanced Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. As anxiety and depression are often common symptoms of trauma, I also specialize in working with teens and children who are experiencing these manifestations. I hope to empower teens and children to use mindfulness techniques to better cope with traumatic reactions they experience. I am trained in Trauma-Informed Yoga Practice and have been teaching yoga in a number of settings for years. I have a history of working with diverse populations with different multicultural backgrounds, gender and sexual orientations. 

In my spare time, I enjoy teaching yoga, reading, creating art, and spending time outdoors with my family and dogs.

Feel free to reach out at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

Zara Abu-Hamdan, LPC

There are a lot of challenges that cannot be handled by yourself and having an open and caring mind that listens to those issues can help in ways that are non-imaginable. Everyone’s challenges deserve a space to be heard no matter how big or small they may seem. My goal as a therapist is to have a strong working connection with my everyone that comes through my door. I strive to create a space that is judgement free and accepting for all.

I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and have worked with trauma throughout my career. I have experience working with many different populations such as children, LGBTQIA+, POC, people from different multicultural backgrounds, and a wide assortment of different religions. I also have knowledge of working with people that are in federal custody and people that have felonies/criminal backgrounds. I also have a history working with people that are in active addiction to recovery, ranging from substance addictions to process addictions (i.e. gambling, shopping, etc.). All of my clients will be met with their own unique treatments whose goals will be catered to individually.

Feel free to reach out at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

Kelly Sein, LCSW

I’m so glad that you are here, as it is never too late to grow. If you have been feeling paralyzed by anxiety, I see you. When depression makes everything hard to do and motivation harder to find, I see you. When you feel more alone in a crowded room, I see you then too. Sometimes changes can come fast and leave people feeling stuck, I’m here to help. I have been helping people help themselves and work towards achieving their goals of mental wellness since 2013. I have worked with several different populations, age groups, and demographics and believe that everyone is worth living a life that they are happy with. You don’t have to try to go at it alone any longer. That first step can be the most intimidating, but often the most rewarding. You are worth it! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who utilizes several different approaches tailored to your needs. Together, we will work towards identifying what is important to you and how I can help bring those values to your life. I will educate and provide you with tools for you to achieve your goals and what you want your life to look like. I have used different approaches for different needs including cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral activation techniques, mindfulness, as well as person centered and strengths-based approaches. I help people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and women’s issues. As we start to collaborate, we can discuss how some of these methods may work best for your unique situation.

Feel free to reach out at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

Annie Hysaw, LCSW

As Clinical Supervisor, I provide direct case consultation, oversight, and training to our child providers. My expertise includes: Attachment, Neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), Trauma, Child Development, Child/Teen Mental Health, Parent/Child relationships, Attachment/Therapeutic Parenting and Family Systems. I am thrilled to be supporting children and families in Kenosha again! Our family at Sacred Arts welcomes you, your child, and your family. Come just as you are, you are welcome here.

Melanie Vrasich, LSW

The COVID-19 pandemic, isolation, families and communities in crisis, and the highest rates of mental health issues in our nation. For years, I've worked in schools helping children navigate challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and family issues to help them be successful at school.

My approach is collaborative, focusing on evidence-based therapies. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and family dynamics using techniques like Play-based therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing.

I know that you, as a parent, have a deep understanding of your child's needs and personality. Together, we can create a safe and supportive space for your child to heal and thrive.

Feel free to reach out at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

Travis McGregor, LPC-IT

I’m passionate about helping people find balance and well-being in their lives. I use a strength-based, person-centered approach that’s all about working together to help you reach your goals. With tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness, I support clients in tackling challenges like substance use, trauma, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and mental health crises. I believe in creating a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable sharing, reflecting, and growing. My background includes working with people from all walks of life and offering individual counseling, crisis intervention, and advocacy. You can be rest assured that you will be met with understanding and empathy in our sessions.

When not working, I love hiking, kayaking, and spending quality time with my family. I’m a big believer in the healing power of nature, as it can be a source of balance and well-being. Family time and strong personal relationships are crucial aspects of mental health. If you’re looking for someone to walk alongside you on your journey, I’d love to connect and see how we can work together to create positive change in your life.

Feel free to reach out at 262.358.4459 for more information and for scheduling your appointment.

Yoga Instructors

Heidi Zalewski RYT 500

I have been practicing yoga since 2006. I have always been physically active and at the same time always sought a sense of connection and wholeness through spiritual and meditative practices. I found the perfect combination of these aspects of health and wellness in Yoga.

As my children have grown and become more independent, I have had time to focus more thoroughly on my yoga practice. It was like coming home, as I feel the trajectory of yoga for me has been a lifelong process of reconnecting to my true self and purpose. It seemed a natural progression to complete my 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2016 enabling me to share the healing and growth I have found through yoga with others and my 500 RYT certificate in 2020.

My training is in Vinyasa Yoga linking movement and poses through the breath. My teaching style emphasizes mindfulness and healthy alignment as it applies to each individual. I focus on connecting to and working with the breath and body enabling one to be fully present in one’s yoga (and life) in a mindful way. I place great importance on enabling students to embrace their yoga practice in a way that is right for each student beginning with a sense of acceptance and love.

Karen Zander RYT 500

Karen initially started taking yoga classes 20 years ago to build physical strength after surgery, chemo and radiation treatments. She soon discovered that yoga developed strength, flexibility and balance not only in her physical body but also in her subtle body, helping her to find the peace that flows within all of us. Eager to share this information with as many people as possible, she began on her journey to become a yoga instructor.

Karen has earned her eRYT 500 certification as well as an additional certification to teach trauma sensitive yoga. She offers modifications to poses so everyone can use the pose in a way that is beneficial to their body. Karen is also certified in aromatherapy and Thai energy (Thai massage). She enjoys working with people and teaching them how to use yoga as a tool to deal with chronic stress. Karen brings a calm and welcoming energy to her classes.