Mike Lawler, MFT-IT
Couples, Teens & Family Therapy in Waunakee, WI
Meet Mike
As a cancer survivor and adoptive parent, I know firsthand how life’s challenges shape us. These experiences inform my work as a therapist, bringing compassion, calm, and a deep belief that healing happens in relationships. I take a systemic, identity-affirming approach to support couples, teens, families, and individuals, with relationship work at the heart of my practice.
Who I work with:
Couples who want to reconnect and rebuild trust
Men working through stress, identity, and men’s mental health
Individuals managing anxiety, depression, or ADHD
Adoptive families and the questions that come with adoption
Teens facing anxiety, school pressure, or family conflict
Families navigating conflict and communication
My Approach & Style
I draw on specialized training in the Gottman Method to help couples navigate challenges, rebuild trust, and deepen connection. With teenagers, I create a space where young people feel safe, seen, and supported through the complexities of adolescence, whether the struggle stems from anxiety, depression, ADHD, school pressures, family dynamics, or social environments. I also support adults with anxiety, depression, and ADHD, and I have a particular focus on men’s issues, helping men navigate the pressures around identity, emotional expression, relationships, and life transitions.
My style is warm, collaborative, and active, and I integrate self-awareness practices and meditation as tools for personal and relational growth.
Modalities: Gottman Method for Couples, Motivational Interviewing
About Mike
Mike Lawler, MFT-IT, is a marriage and family therapist at Modern Thrive Counseling in Madison, WI. As a marriage and family therapist in training, he practices under the supervision of a licensed clinician, Nicole Krapf LMFT. He earned his graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Edgewood University in 2025.
Before becoming a therapist, Mike built a career in the performing arts, which shapes how he connects with artists and makers. He loves spending one-on-one time with his kids, playing league kickball with friends, making movies, and doing crossword puzzles.
Session Details
Sessions offered: In person and online
Location: Modern Thrive Counseling, Waunakee, WI
Session length: 53 minutes
Fees: $180 individual, $200 for couples
Insurance: In network with Quartz, Dean Health Plan, and The Alliance. Superbill available for out-of-network. Couples sessions are private pay.
Free consultation: Yes - All consultations are 10 minutes over video with our Founder, Amy Harvat
Accepting new clients: Yes
Ready to Get Started?
If you are looking for a therapist who stays engaged and helps you make real change, reach out for a free consultation. Real change can happen.