Professional Background & Clinical Supervision

Hi, I’m Dr. Amanda J. Falkers, Founder and Owner of AJ Falkers Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC. I became a therapist because of my deep passion for walking alongside individuals and families as they navigate life’s challenges and meaningful moments. My goal—both clinically and professionally—has always been to empower others toward hope, healing, and growth.

I hold a Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision (Ed.D.) and provide comprehensive clinical supervision for counselor trainees seeking licensure in the state of Wisconsin. My academic training, paired with years of hands-on clinical and supervisory experience, allows me to support emerging mental health professionals with both depth and practical application.

My credentials include:

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

• Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC)

• Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS)

• National Certified Counselor (NCC)

• Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider (CSOTP)

In my clinical work, I specialize in working with children and adolescents, particularly in school-based settings, supporting emotional development, resilience, and healthy coping skills. I also provide trauma-informed, supportive care as individuals and families rebuild and strengthen their lives.

Supervision is a core focus of my professional work. I provide clinical supervision for practicum and internship students, as well as pre-licensed and in-training professionals, including LPC-IT, APSW, MFT-IT, SAC-IT, and related credential tracks. My supervision approach is trauma-informed, ethically grounded, culturally responsive, and developmentally appropriate, integrating academic theory with practical, real-world clinical application to support clinicians as they progress toward full licensure with confidence and competence.

Outside of the office, I value balance and connection with loved ones. During the warmer months, I enjoy being outdoors—playing golf, watching baseball, or spending time at the race track. In winter, I’m usually at home with my “circus of animals,” a good book, or a favorite TV series. I believe wellness, humor, and finding joy in the small moments are essential—especially in this field.

At AJ Falkers Counseling, my hope is that every person who walks through our doors—clients and supervisees alike—feels supported, respected, and genuinely cared for. I’m honored to be part of your journey.

*To learn more about clinical supervision opportunities or to inquire further, please contact us at info@ajfalkerscounseling.org.

Hi, I'm Bianka! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor. I graduated with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Viterbo University in December 2022.

My passion lies in working with children and adolescents, empowering them to better understand themselves, build confidence, and navigate life’s challenges with resilience. I strive to create a space where young people feel safe, supported, and truly heard. In addition to my work with youth, I also provide counseling for individuals ages 5 and up. I have experience supporting clients with a variety of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation, and behavioral challenges.

My therapeutic style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. I draw from both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), integrating skills like emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and cognitive restructuring into sessions when appropriate. I also enjoy using creative and experiential approaches, such as art and mindfulness, to meet clients where they are and make therapy both engaging and meaningful.

I became a therapist because I believe everyone deserves a space where they feel seen, supported, and empowered. Life comes with ups and downs, and no one should have to face them alone. Whether you’re working through stress, emotional struggles, trauma, or simply trying to grow, I’m here to walk alongside you in that process.

Outside of sessions, you’ll probably find me enjoying the outdoors, reading, crafting, or going to thrift stores. I value authenticity, creativity, and connection and I bring those values into my work every day. 

Hi! I am Amber, I am a Professional Counselor in Training, working under supervision of Dr. Amanda Falkers to attain my full licensure. I have years of experience providing in-home therapy for children, adolescents, and families. The focus of my experience has involved trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. I became a therapist because I want to help others not feel alone and walk through this journey called life. I also dream to tie my love for animals into my passion to help others. 

In my down time you will find me spending time with my 3 children, husband, and other family. My activities range from indoor and outdoor, depending on the weather, as I am not much for the cold. I enjoy curling up and watching a good television show, reading, writing, artsy activities, and listening to music. But I also enjoy digging into the dirt once in a while, with fishing, gardening, boating, and foraging for herbs. I think it's important to be in the moment and live life to its fullest.

Amber is accepting new clients!

Hello! I'm Kasey! I am currently an Advanced Practice Social Worker working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker under the supervision of Dr. Amanda Falkers. In May of 2016, I graduated from Winona State University with my Bachelors in Social Work then graduated from St. Cloud State University with my Masters in Social Work in May of 2017.  Since then, I have worked within Human Services in the CPS/Foster Care realm. I have many years of experience working with clients through a trauma informed lens with a wide variety of backgrounds, personalities, mental health disorders and challenges. I decided overtime that the therapy world is one that I ultimately wanted to pursue to reach not only my own goals but to help others reach theirs as well. 

My goal for our sessions and time together is to build a trusting relationship to empower you and support you to facilitate positive change when it comes to a healthier and happier life! I am a faithful believer in "everything happens for a reason" and sometimes we don't know why that reason is, but it truly leads you to where you meant to be in life in the end.

Beyond work, you can find me spending time with my significant other, my son, other loved ones and my two great danes! In the summer, I enjoy going boating on the Mississippi River, eating at different restaurants, and spending most of my time outside! In the winter, you can find me on a plane traveling to warmer weather and/or snuggling under a blanket at home with my son and puppies! I genuinely look forward to meeting with you, getting to know you and guiding you on your mental health journey! 

Kasey is accepting new clients!

Hello! My name is Molly Ripley, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Training (LPC-IT) at AJ Falkers Counseling. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Viterbo University and am excited to begin this next chapter of my professional journey with the team here.

I believe that no one should have to face life’s challenges alone. This conviction drives my passion for supporting clients as they cultivate resilience, confidence, and a positive outlook on life. My approach draws on cognitive-based strategies while emphasizing authenticity and collaboration. I tailor each session to the unique needs of the individual, knowing that healing and growth are not one-size-fits-all.

My goal is to create a warm, safe, and empowering environment where clients can freely explore their thoughts and emotions. Together, we work to build tools, routines, and strengths that support long-term well-being and fulfillment.

Outside of counseling, I enjoy crocheting (my favorite creative outlet), playing soccer and futsal, staying active at the gym, and exploring the outdoors through hiking and camping. These activities keep me grounded and bring balance to my life.

I am grateful to be part of AJ Falkers Counseling and look forward to walking alongside clients on their journey toward peace, healing, and growth.

Molly is accepting new clients!

Hi, I'm Robin Grosch!  I'm a compassionate and dedicated counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field, including the past four years providing direct therapeutic support. My passion lies in walking alongside individuals as they navigate challenges related to grief and loss, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and substance use.

I hold a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Viterbo University, as well as a second Master’s Degree in Mental Health and Wellness with an Emphasis on Grief and Bereavement from Grand Canyon University. I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies from Viterbo University. I’m credentialed as a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Substance Abuse Counselor-in-Training (SAC-IT), and a Certified Youth Mental Health Specialist (CYMHS).

My approach is rooted in empathy and tailored to your unique needs. I use an integrative, trauma-informed style that includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and grief-informed care. I’ve worked with people from all walks of life—many of whom are navigating life-altering events or healing from deep emotional wounds. Together, we’ll explore what healing looks like for you and build tools to help you move forward with resilience and hope.

I believe therapy is a space where your story matters, your voice is heard, and your growth is supported every step of the way. I look forward to working with you.

Robin is accepting new clients at our Tomah location!

Hello! I’m Michaela, an Advanced Practice Social Worker working under the supervision of Dr. Amanda Falkers. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from West Virginia University and have over seven years of experience supporting both children and adults with a variety of mental health needs. My background includes work in community settings, schools, and outpatient care, which allows me to understand and support clients across different environments and stages of life.

I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Birth to Five Mental Health, and I enjoy working with individuals and families to address trauma, emotional challenges, and developmental concerns. I take a flexible and individualized approach to care, recognizing that each client’s experiences, strengths, and goals are unique.

My approach is trauma-focused and person-centered. I believe in creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel comfortable being themselves. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is important to me, and I strive to ensure that each person feels seen, heard, and respected throughout the counseling process.

Whether you are seeking support for yourself or your child, my goal is to help you feel empowered, build on your strengths, and develop tools that support long-term growth and well-being.

Michaela is accepting new clients!

Hello! My name is Katie, and I am a Clinical Social Work Intern at AJ Falkers Counseling, working under the supervision of Dr. Amanda Falkers. I am a Certified Social Worker (CSW) with experience in the correctional system, where I assist with release planning, low-risk case programming, reclassification, and responding to reports of sexual harassment or abuse. Alongside this work, I also help facilitate higher-level Department of Corrections programs including Employability, Thinking for a Change, Anger Management, and Substance Use Disorders.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Social Work, with minors in Sociology and Gerontology, from Viterbo University in La Crosse. Currently, I am pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Social Work at Concordia University in Mequon, Wisconsin. These experiences have strengthened my belief that everyone deserves a safe, supportive space to talk through life’s circumstances and challenges.

My approach is goal-oriented, organized, and compassionate. I strive to meet people where they are and assist them in building the skills and confidence needed to move forward. I am excited to expand my practice into the counseling realm of social work through my internship with AJ Falkers Counseling and look forward to supporting clients on their unique journeys.

Outside of my professional work, I enjoy paddle boarding, reading, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Hi! My name is Jordan, and I am currently a Master’s student in the Mental Health Counseling program at Viterbo University. I am excited to be joining AJ Falkers Counseling this fall as a clinical intern under the supervision of Dr. Amanda Falkers.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, along with a minor in At-Risk Child and Youth Care, from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. My experience includes working with youth through The Good Fight in La Crosse and volunteering at Northside Elementary School. These opportunities have strengthened my passion for supporting children and families while helping create safe, empowering spaces for growth and healing.

I believe it is essential to provide an environment where individuals feel heard, understood, and supported. Throughout my internship, I look forward to expanding my skills, learning new therapeutic techniques, and growing as a future clinician.

Outside of my professional journey, I love spending time outdoors—whether it’s swimming, hiking, or paddleboarding. I also enjoy reading, experimenting with new recipes, and being with family. I value authenticity, connection, and living in the moment, and I strive to bring these qualities into my work with clients.

Jordan is no longer accepting new clients

Hello! My name is Paul Lyden, and I am a graduate student at Winona State University in the Counseling Education program, pursuing my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My goal is to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and I am excited to be joining AJ Falkers Counseling & Consulting Services as a clinical intern under the supervision of Dr. Amanda Falkers.

I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse and have two years of experience as a Certified Peer Support Specialist. In that role, I supported individuals living with mental health challenges and substance use disorders. My own lived experience has deepened my understanding of the struggles that often accompany mental health concerns, and it fuels my commitment to helping others find hope, healing, and resilience.

I believe that everyone needs a helping hand at times—no one makes it through life entirely on their own. My goal is to create a safe, empathetic, and supportive environment where clients feel truly heard, understood, and empowered. I recognize that recovery is not linear and that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. Each client brings a unique story, and I strive to adapt to their individual needs as they work toward their personal goals.

Outside of school and counseling, I enjoy reading, watching movies, and spending time in nature. With a Master of Music degree from the University of Minnesota, I also love sharing classical guitar music with friends and family. Meditation and being outdoors help me stay grounded and balanced.

I look forward to walking alongside clients on their journeys toward growth and a brighter future.

Paul is accepting new clients!

Hello! My name is Kenzie Fellenz, and I am a Clinical Social Work Intern at AJ Falkers Counseling, working under the supervision of Dr. Amanda Falkers. I am a Certified Social Worker (CSW) with experience across behavioral health and disability services. My background includes providing one-on-one Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children diagnosed with autism, supporting their communication, emotional regulation, and daily living skills. Prior to this, I served as the Adult Program Coordinator at Catholic Charities, where I oversaw program operations, care coordination, and behavior-focused services for developmentally disabled adults.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Social Work, with a minor in Family Studies, from Viterbo University in La Crosse, and I am now pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Social Work at Concordia University. My work across community-based, behavioral, and disability services has shaped my belief that every individual deserves a safe, empowering environment that honors their strengths, autonomy, and lived experiences.

My approach to practice is warm, collaborative, and grounded in trauma-informed and evidence-based frameworks. I strive to meet clients where they are, build meaningful therapeutic connections, and support them in developing skills that foster independence, resilience, and emotional well-being. I am grateful for the opportunity to expand my clinical skills through my internship at AJ Falkers Counseling and look forward to walking alongside clients as they work toward their personal goals.

Outside of my professional work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, exploring new coffee shops, being outdoors, and staying active.

Hello! My name is Daniela, and I am a Clinical Social Work Intern at AJ Falkers Counseling & Consulting Services. I am a Certified Social Worker (CSW) with professional experience in substance abuse treatment, correctional programming, behavioral health support, crisis intervention, and youth behavioral services. My clinical focus is working with individuals involved in treatment court, probation, substance use recovery, and justice-involved systems who are working toward meaningful and lasting change.

My background includes facilitating Substance Outpatient Programming (SOP) and relapse prevention groups focused on accountability, emotional regulation, recovery maintenance, coping skills, and behavioral change. Through my work, I collaborate closely with Drug Court programs, probation, and law enforcement agencies to coordinate treatment plans, conduct assessments, and support individuals navigating both recovery and court-related responsibilities. I understand the unique challenges that can come with balancing legal obligations, mental health, addiction recovery, family stressors, and rebuilding stability, and I strive to provide support that is compassionate, structured, and solution-focused.

I also have experience working with adolescents and families in a Day Treatment setting serving youth ages 7–17 referred through schools, probation, and county services. Many of the individuals I have worked with have experienced significant trauma, behavioral challenges, substance use concerns, and difficult life circumstances. These experiences strengthened my passion for helping clients feel understood rather than judged and empowered rather than defined by their past.

I earned my Bachelor of Social Work degree from Viterbo University and am currently pursuing my Master of Social Work (MSW) with an Addictions Specialization at Walden University. My approach to treatment is client-centered, trauma-informed, and strengths-based. I utilize evidence-based practices including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), relapse prevention, and individualized treatment planning to help clients identify barriers, develop healthier coping strategies, improve decision-making skills, and build confidence in their recovery journey.

I believe recovery looks different for every person, and treatment should never be approached with a one-size-fits-all mindset. My goal is to create a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where clients feel heard, challenged, and empowered to take meaningful steps toward growth, healing, accountability, and long-term success. 

Daniela is accepting new clients!

Hello! My name is Evelyn and I am excited to begin my practicum experience at AJ Falkers Counseling and Consulting, where I will be learning under the supervision of Dr. Amanda Falkers. I earned my Bachelor’s of Science in Arts from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, with dual minors in Art Therapy and Psychology. During my time at UWL, I was involved in the American Sign Language (ASL) Club, mural painting, and I worked alongside Dr. Jessica Schweigert to research mental health across college campuses, with a focus on the importance of peer advice and mentorship in learning environments. I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Art Therapy and Counseling at Edgewood University.

I am passionate about pursuing a career in art therapy to help others better understand themselves through artistic expression and visual communication. By combining art and psychology, I hope to create spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. I believe art can be a therapeutic tool, one that allows people to be vulnerable, genuine, and expressive in a safe and meaningful way.

Outside of school and work, I am a multidisciplinary artist, especially drawn to painting. Through my practice, I explore personal experiences and reflect on emotions. Art has always been something I can rely on, an open and inclusive space of expression without judgment. I believe this is what makes it such a powerful tool in supporting mental health, personal growth, and communication.

Evelyn is accepting new clients!

I’m Deana—an energetic, positive, and service-driven professional with a strong foundation in public service and healthcare. After proudly serving 20 years in the federal government, I made the decision to retire early and begin a new chapter—bringing my enthusiasm, adaptability, and dedication to helping others to the AJ Falkers Counseling team.

My professional journey began in healthcare, working in preventative medicine and chiropractic care in Carmel and Monterey, California. I later ran a successful in-home daycare, allowing me to care for my own children while supporting other families in the community.

As a mother of three and grandmother of two, I’ve always valued the importance of balancing work, family, and personal wellness. I thrive in collaborative, team-oriented environments and am known for my reliability, strong work ethic, and contagious optimism.

With over 25 years of experience in customer service and a wide range of software systems, I bring a tech-savvy, well-rounded skill set to every role. Outside of work, I stay active and grounded through kayaking, biking, gardening, and playing pickleball.

I’m truly excited to be part of AJ Falkers Counseling, where I can continue supporting others and contributing to a compassionate and client-centered environment.

Bio coming soon!

Kyro is a gentle, loving therapy dog who brings comfort, calm, and joy to our space. With her friendly personality and soothing presence, Kyro helps create a welcoming environment for clients of all ages. She enjoys greeting visitors, offering companionship, and reminding everyone that healing can happen with a little patience, kindness, and a wagging tail.

Kyro is an important part of our team, and her role is to provide emotional support, reduce stress, and help clients feel safe and at ease during their time with us. Whether she is sitting nearby, offering a gentle nudge, or simply being present, Kyro has a special way of making people feel cared for.

We are grateful to have Kyro as part of our practice family.