Emily Priestaf

Emily Priestaf is a licensed counselor practicing in Wisconsin with 10 years of clinical experience. She holds licensure as a professional counselor in Wisconsin and as a licensed mental health counselor in Washington, and she is a board-certified music therapist who earned a Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling and music therapy.

When people struggle with difficult emotions or stressful life events, Emily helps them build practical skills and steady support. She emphasizes increasing self-awareness and improving relationships, and places a high value on the therapeutic connection. Her manner is supportive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental, and she brings warmth and compassion while working collaboratively with each person.

Emily’s approach blends person-centered care, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and creative practices. She tailors the process to each individual’s goals - serving as a sounding board when that is needed, offering structured CBT for clients who prefer clear techniques, or incorporating music, art, and other expressive methods for those who benefit from creative avenues. She invites clients to identify what feels most helpful and adapts her work accordingly.

In sessions Emily helps clients clarify and reach goals, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, draw on existing strengths to solve problems, and learn new tools to function more effectively. She has experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults, and she looks forward to connecting with prospective clients to learn about their challenges and goals for the future.