Dr. Ryan Knutson, LPC

Dr. Ryan Knutson is a licensed counselor based in Wisconsin with more than a decade of clinical experience. He combines formal training - including a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s degree in mental health counseling, and a doctorate in counselor education and supervision - with years of hands-on practice across diverse care settings. His background includes work in correctional environments, outpatient programs, and group homes, and he has volunteered as a counselor with community organizations.

He holds professional credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC), and an Independent Clinical Supervisor (ICS), reflecting roles in direct care and in supervising other counselors. For more than seven years he has provided clinical supervision and has served as an adjunct instructor in a graduate counseling program, bringing both academic and supervisory perspectives to his clinical work.

Dr. Knutson’s approach is rooted in evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral methods, motivational interviewing, person-centered care, and strength-based techniques, and he adapts these methods to match each person’s needs. He aims to make therapy feel like a helpful conversation rather than a formal procedure, working collaboratively to address stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma, relationship and family concerns, grief, parenting, career challenges, ADHD, and related areas. He welcomes clients seeking practical support and thoughtful guidance through life’s changes.

Evidence-based approaches and accessible online care

Dr. Ryan Knutson uses cognitive behavioral techniques to help people identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, which can be useful for anxiety, depression, and stress-related concerns. He also applies motivational interviewing - a collaborative, goal-oriented method that helps people explore and strengthen their own reasons for change, particularly for substance use and behavior change challenges. Additionally, he draws on person-centered principles that prioritize empathy, active listening, and the client's own perspective to build a trusting therapeutic relationship.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process; Dr. Ryan Knutson works collaboratively with each client to determine which techniques best match their needs, goals, and personal preferences. He adjusts strategies over time to ensure the work remains practical and relevant.

Online therapy with Dr. Ryan Knutson is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, providing flexibility for scheduling and communication. These options make it easier to maintain consistent care around work, family, and other responsibilities, and allow people to access licensed professionals from different locations when appropriate.