Mental health is a significant concern in Milwaukee, where it’s more prevalent than in other parts of Wisconsin.
The City of Milwaukee has identified it as the primary health issue in the county. However, there are resources available here to assist those struggling with mental health challenges.
These resources, including hospitals and professionals, provide various services such as inpatient care or outpatient appointments, playing a vital role in aiding individuals on their journey to recovery.
This article will delve into the top mental health hospitals in Milwaukee, facilities specifically designed to aid teenagers facing mental health issues, and the leading mental health professionals in the city.
But before we get into that, I want to mention something important: lots of people in Milwaukee use BetterHelp.
It’s a website and app where you can talk to licensed therapists without leaving home. If you’re interested, you can register on their website or download their app.
Milwaukee Mental Health Statistics
The mental health situation in Milwaukee is highly concerning, especially for young people.
Studies indicate that many residents are hospitalized for mental health issues, with children under 18 being particularly affected, having a hospitalization rate of 86.7 per 10,000 residents.
This shows a critical need for more support and intervention for youth dealing with mental health problems.
A recent survey found that over 58% of Wisconsin students, including those in Milwaukee, have experienced depression, anxiety, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts in the past year.
This widespread issue among young people may be exacerbated by academic pressure, social media, and economic challenges.
Mental health problems disproportionately impact people of color in Milwaukee County.
The rates of diagnosed mental health conditions are significantly higher among Black and Hispanic residents—33% and 45%, respectively—compared to white residents.
This disparity points to issues like inadequate access to healthcare, lack of culturally competent services, and social determinants of health affecting mental well-being.
These statistics highlight the urgent need for improved access to mental health services and resources in Milwaukee.
However, major obstacles include high costs, long wait times, insufficient support for navigating the system, and limited awareness of available resources.
Milwaukee County Mental Health, the public mental health department, has low online ratings and may not be the best initial option.
While it does provide crisis intervention services, concerns about long wait times and staffing shortages persist.
Overall, mental health is a critical public health issue in Milwaukee. There is an urgent need for more affordable and high-quality mental health services, particularly for underserved communities.
List of Top Mental Health Hospitals in Milwaukee
1. Aurora Psychiatric Hospital
Aurora Psychiatric Hospital in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, offers comprehensive mental health care for people of all ages.
They provide 24/7 inpatient care for adults, children, and teens facing crises or needing intensive treatment for conditions like depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders.
They also have partial hospitalization programs, which offer intensive treatment during the day while allowing patients to go home each night, perfect for those needing more support than outpatient therapy but not full-time hospitalization.
Additionally, they offer various outpatient therapies, including individual, group, and family therapy for all ages.
Their psychiatrists can prescribe medications to support treatment plans, and they offer specialized treatments like Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for depression that doesn’t respond to other treatments.
Overall Aurora Psychiatric Hospital focuses on using proven, research-based therapies and tailors each treatment plan to fit the patient’s individual needs and preferences.
2. Rogers Behavioral Health
Rogers Behavioral Health in Milwaukee is renowned for its exceptional care in treating mental health and addiction issues for people of all ages, including children, teens, and adults.
They provide various treatment options tailored to the severity of the condition, such as inpatient care, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs (IOP).
The centre offers evidence-based programs designed to address specific issues like depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, and substance abuse.
Additionally, they have specialized programs for emotional dysregulation, complex medical and mental health conditions, and primary behavioural health needs.
At Rogers, a multidisciplinary team comprising psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, nurses, and social workers works together to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient, ensuring a supportive and healing environment.
3. American Behavioral Clinics – Bluemound Clinic
American Behavioral Clinics – Bluemound Clinic in Milwaukee offers extensive outpatient mental health services for adults, children, and teens.
They provide a range of therapy and counselling options, including individual, family, and marriage therapy, to address issues such as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, schizophrenia, and relationship problems.
Their psychiatrist can prescribe medication if needed to support treatment plans.
The clinic also has specialized programs for substance abuse and addiction, and they offer group therapy sessions for individuals with similar challenges.
Advanced treatments like TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), ketamine therapy, and psychological testing are also available. For added convenience, telemedicine appointments allow you to attend sessions virtually.
They offer immediate appointments, both virtual and in-person, available within a day to ensure quick access to care, and they accept all major insurance plans.
4. Froedtert & MCW Behavioral Health Services
Froedtert & MCW Behavioral Health Services are available at various locations in Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Washington counties, focusing on mental and emotional well-being alongside physical health.
They understand the deep connection between mind and body and provide a range of solutions in a caring and confidential environment.
Recognizing the different challenges people face, such as depression, anxiety, substance use, and relationship issues, Froedtert & MCW ensures nobody deals with these alone.
They tailor treatments for all age groups, offering outpatient services, intensive programs, and partial hospitalization.
These include therapy sessions, counseling, and stress management techniques to empower individuals.
Their intensive programs provide specialized help for more severe issues, equipping patients with strategies for coping, preventing relapses, and repairing relationships.
Additionally, they introduce the SilverCloud online program to boost cognitive and emotional resilience.
Froedtert & MCW Behavioral Health Services are dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey to recovery and highlight the importance of seeking help for mental health concerns.
5. Access Recovery Mental Health Services(ARMHS)
Access Recovery Mental Health Services (ARMHS) in Milwaukee specializes in helping adults who are dealing with substance abuse disorders and mental health issues at the same time.
They deeply understand how complex addiction can be and offer treatments that are backed by evidence for different types of substance use disorders, like alcohol and drug abuse.
ARMHS focuses on dual diagnosis treatment, which means they work on both the mental health issue and the addiction together to help people have a better chance at recovering in the long run.
They use various methods for treatment, including things like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and Motivational Interviewing.
ARMHS provides both one-on-one and group counseling sessions to create a supportive atmosphere where people can talk about their problems and learn how to cope with them.
They make sure that treatment is affordable by offering different payment options based on income and accepting various insurance plans.
ARMHS focuses on treating each person as an individual, making treatment plans that fit their specific needs and preferences.
Their goal is to help people in Milwaukee who are struggling with substance abuse to find a path to long-lasting recovery by offering different treatment options, addressing mental health issues at the same time, and making sure treatment is accessible.
6. Crisis Resource Center Milwaukee South
The Crisis Resource Center (CRC) in Milwaukee, especially at its South location, is an essential community program for psychiatric crisis intervention.
It provides personalized help for people facing mental illness, substance abuse, or economic hardship as an alternative to emergency rooms or hospitalization.
CRC focuses on recovery by assessing individual needs and offering stabilization, psychosocial groups, and peer support.
They ensure quick access to mental health care using trauma-informed methods and telehealth options.
Additionally, CRC offers follow-up care and connects people to broader health services, including housing, personal care, employment, and benefits support, in a comfortable setting.
Honored with the Biztimes Health Care Heroes award in 2019 and 2020 for their compassionate care, the Crisis Resource Center Milwaukee South is essential for providing safe, supportive care and connecting people in crisis to long-term mental health services.
Adolescent Mental Health Facilities in Milwaukee
During adolescence, you go through a lot of changes, which can be tough to handle sometimes.
If you’re a teenager in Milwaukee dealing with mental health issues, or if you’re a parent or guardian worried about a young person, there are places you can turn to for support.
First off, if it’s an emergency, there’s help available all day, every day. The Mental Health Emergency Center (MHEC) is there to assess the situation, provide stabilization, and link you to further care if needed.
They have a special area just for kids and teens to make sure they feel safe and comfortable.
Then there’s the team at Rogers Behavioral Health, who use different kinds of therapy like CBT, DBT, and family therapy.
They offer different levels of care—like staying in the hospital, living in a residential program, or just going to appointments—to match what each teenager needs.
Aurora Psychiatric Hospital also has a range of programs, from staying in the hospital for serious mental health issues to going to therapy a few times a week.
They focus on using treatments that research shows work well and making sure the care is all about what’s best for the patient.
Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Services (BHS) has a bunch of different programs too, like one-on-one therapy, therapy with your family, or being in a group with other people going through similar stuff. They have offices all around Milwaukee County.
The Midtown Clinic, run by Children’s Wisconsin, is where the Milwaukee Adolescent Health Program happens.
They see thousands of teens every year and also provide care for teens at the Milwaukee County Juvenile Detention Center.
Plus, there are plenty of private practices in Milwaukee where you can find therapy specifically for teenagers.
Overall, these mental health facilities in Milwaukee are really important for helping young people when times get tough.
Whether it’s an emergency, regular counseling, or ongoing treatment, they’re here to give teens the support they need for their mental health.
Inpatient & Outpatient Mental Health Facilities in Milwaukee
In Milwaukee, there are different kinds of places that help with mental health, offering both inpatient and outpatient services.
Inpatient facilities, like hospitals or residential treatment centers, give round-the-clock care in a structured environment.
They’re best for people going through severe mental health crises or needing intense support to stabilize. These programs usually involve therapy, managing medications, and group activities.
Outpatient facilities provide ongoing mental health help, but patients go home after each session. They’re great for those who need regular support but can manage in a less structured setting.
Outpatient services might include one-on-one therapy, group therapy, medication management, and family therapy. Milwaukee has lots of outpatient clinics, including ones at hospitals, community mental health places, and private practices.
Choosing the right place depends on what someone needs. If you’re not sure which is best, talking to a mental health pro or your regular doctor is a good start.
Want to know more about mental health hospitals, check these out:
- 7 Best Mental Health Hospitals in India
- Top 7 Mental Health Hospitals in Missouri
- 7 Best Mental Health Hospitals in Tulsa OK
Top Mental Health Doctors & Professionals in Milwaukee
1. Dr. James Winston,
Dr. James Winston, a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist, is the Founder and Medical Director of American Behavioral Clinics.
With more than 30 years of experience, he earned his medical degree from the University of Wisconsin. Dr. Winston is an expert in medication management, anxiety, and depression.
Additionally, he is a national speaker, frequently lecturing on various medications and staying informed about the latest developments in his field. You can reach him at (414) 310-7840.
2. Dr. Jay Winston, DO
Dr. Jay Winston, DO, is a well-respected psychiatrist in Milwaukee. He received his Doctor of Osteopathy degree from the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa.
With more than 28 years of experience, Dr. Winston is a licensed physician specializing in psychiatry.
He provides care in both inpatient and outpatient settings, treating children, adolescents, and adults for various mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma PTSD, and ADHD. For appointments, you can contact him at (262) 475-1836.
3. Susan Chapman
Susan Chapman is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 18 years of experience.
She earned her Master’s in Nursing from the University of Central Florida. Susan treats patients aged 8 and up, helping with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and ADD.
She also specializes in LGBTQIA issues, medication management, and OCD.
In addition to managing medications, Susan provides psychedelic therapy (Spravato) and assesses patients for TMS treatment, especially for those with treatment-resistant depression.
She aims to help you achieve the best possible mental health and perform at your highest potential
4. Dr. Robert Loiben
Dr. Robert Loiben is another well-respected Board-Certified Psychiatrist and received his medical degree from Chicago Medical School and completed his internship at Rush University Medical Center.
With more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Loiben focuses on medication management, adult psychiatry, and teen psychiatry. He is affiliated with Aurora Psychiatric Hospital.
5. Kristen Anderson
Kristen Anderson is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been caring for people’s mental health for over ten years in different places like hospitals and outpatient clinics.
She got her Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University.
Kristen is really good at managing medications, and she specializes in treating conditions like ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Schizophrenia.
