- Client-centered focus
- Cognitive behavioral work
- Motivational interviewing
About Michael
Dr. Michael Altekruse is a Wisconsin psychologist (WI Psychologist 2118-57) with 25 years of experience. He works with people facing stress, anxiety, relationship strain, parenting concerns, depression, and ADHD. He also addresses issues like attachment wounds, forgiveness, guilt and shame, and the strain of caregiving.
He draws information from what brought someone to therapy before setting goals. He asks about the obstacles that get in the way of change and focuses on practical steps the person is willing to try. Sessions are straightforward and goal oriented, while still allowing space to talk through painful feelings.
Dr. Altekruse has worked in college counseling centers and in a school district. That background means he has experience with a wide range of life stages and stressors. He often sees people navigating career shifts, parenting duties, and midlife questions.
He uses approaches that center the client and target patterns that keep problems going. He pays attention to communication problems, control issues, and family of origin influences when those things matter to the goals someone brings.
He describes himself as respectful, calming, and occasionally humorous. He does not present himself as someone with all the answers. Instead he collaborates with people to decide what actions feel doable and meaningful.
Taking a first step can feel difficult. He acknowledges that starting therapy already shows a willingness to look at yourself and make changes, and he looks forward to working with people who want to try.
Therapeutic approaches and working online
Dr. Altekruse often uses Client-Centered Therapy, which focuses on listening closely and helping people clarify their own goals. This approach is useful when someone needs a steady, respectful presence while they sort out difficult feelings. He also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, which can be helpful for anxiety, depression, and problem-focused changes.Finding the right approach is part of the work. He will talk with the person about goals, preferences, and what has or has not helped before. Together they decide which methods to try and adjust the plan as progress or new obstacles appear.
The biography does not list specific online session formats, so confirm current options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy day, reduce travel time, or allow a shorter check-in when schedules are tight. Over video or phone, the focus remains on clear goals, practical steps, and tracking what helps between sessions.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
25+ years
Listed in
Wisconsin
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does he commonly address?
He works with stress, anxiety, relationship problems, parenting concerns, depression, and ADHD. He also helps with issues like guilt and shame, attachment, forgiveness, and caregiver stress.
How does he approach guilt or shame in sessions?
He asks what brought the person to therapy and what blocks change. Then he helps set practical goals and looks at patterns that keep guilt or shame active.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has 25 years of professional experience, including work in college counseling centers and a school district.
What are his credentials and where is he based?
He is a Wisconsin psychologist, listed as WI Psychologist 2118-57, and practices in Wisconsin.
In which language are sessions offered?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
What formats are used for sessions?
The original biography does not specify session formats. Please confirm current session options before booking.
How do fees and scheduling work?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time. To begin, use the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, use the crisis numbers.