Jolene Blaha

I graduated with my BA in Social Work at UW- Whitewater in 2012, then graduated with my MSW at UW-Milwaukee. Though it says I only have one year of experience in counseling I have worked in the mental health field for six years. I have worked with children and adults with acute mental health issues, autism, and Prader Willi Syndrome directly for 4 years. This includes experience in direct support, case management, making mental health recommendations, and crisis intervention.I worked in geriatric social work for 1.5 years assisting older adults with dementia and mental health issues. I also helped clients, families, and friends through the grieving process.

Beginning with the client receiving terminal diagnosis, admission to hospice services, supporting the client through end of life, and providing support for family and friends through grief and bereavement. I worked with children with acute mental health needs in the community through Comprehensive Community Services (CCS). This also included assessing mental health needs, making recommendations for mental health services, working with families, schools, and other service providers.

I connected families and children with disabilities with resources and services while working in Children’s Long Term Support Waiver. I began my journey as a mental health counselor in July of 2024. I’ve had the privilege of engaging with clients in mental health and AODA treatment. I practice CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I feel my hands on experience in residential treatment, CCS, and CLTS give me insight into pediatric and adolescent mental health and greatly influence my practice.