Megan Gilbertson, PhD

Hello, I’m Megan Gilbertson, PhD—a Licensed Psychologist in Wisconsin. My professional path began as a school psychologist and has grown to include clinical practice, research, and education. I hold a PhD from Northern Illinois University, and my work is deeply informed by an understanding of how context, relationships, identity, and environment shape mental health and learning. As both a clinician and researcher, I’m passionate about bridging science and practice to improve outcomes for children, youth, and families.

My Approach

I believe we do not exist in isolation. Our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are shaped by the environments we inhabit and the relationships we hold. In therapy, my role is to help clients explore these patterns with curiosity and compassion, identifying both the obstacles that may be keeping them stuck and the opportunities for meaningful growth.

My approach is warm, evidence-based, and collaborative. While my work is grounded in cognitive behavioral principles, it is also highly client-centered and contextually informed. I view therapy as a shared process of discovery and empowerment, where insight is paired with practical strategies that help turn understanding into action.

Who I Work With

I work with clients across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, emerging adults, adults, couples, and families. I particularly enjoy supporting individuals navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and adjustment-related concerns.

My work is inclusive and affirming, and I have experience supporting:

  • Neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD and autism

  • LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC clients

  • Individuals navigating life transitions, stress, and identity development

  • Trauma survivors and individuals coping with grief or loss

  • Families and systems working through relational challenges

Areas of Focus

  • ADHD and autism across the lifespan

  • Anxiety, depression, and adjustment concerns

  • School climate, belonging, and social support

  • Trauma-informed and culturally responsive care

  • Children, adolescents, and emerging adults

  • Families navigating developmental or systemic stressors

What to Expect

With every client, I begin from a place of genuine curiosity. I want to understand what it feels like to be you—how you experience your world, your relationships, and your emotions. Together, we explore patterns that may be repeating and identify what stands between insight and meaningful change.

In the first few sessions, assessment often serves as a starting point. This allows us to better understand how cognitive, emotional, and environmental factors intersect in daily life. From there, we collaborate to create a clear, values-aligned roadmap for treatment, grounded in your strengths and goals.

You can expect:

  • A thoughtful, collaborative therapeutic relationship

  • Evidence-based tools paired with curiosity and reflection

  • Clear goal-setting rooted in your values

  • A supportive space focused on clarity, insight, and direction

Specialties & Techniques

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Culturally Responsive / Multicultural Therapy

  • Client-Centered and Contextually Informed Care

Education & Professional Background

  • PhD, Northern Illinois University

  • Licensed Psychologist, State of Wisconsin

  • Background as a school psychologist, researcher, and educator

  • Research focus on school climate, belonging, social support, and bullying

  • Ongoing commitment to integrating research and clinical practice in meaningful, community-centered ways

A Final Word

Often, people already have a sense of what they want to change. The real challenge is identifying what’s getting in the way. I don’t see my role as telling clients what to do, but as helping uncover barriers and develop strategies that allow action to align with values.

My goal is to support individuals and families in gaining clarity, insight, and direction, so they can move forward with greater confidence and intention.