Hi, I’m Dr. Liz
Let me introduce myself…
I’m a dual-licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist. When it comes to roles in my field - you name it, I’ve probably done it. I’ve worked in schools, universities, private agencies, state entities, and for over eight years, I’ve run my thriving mental health private practice, Capital City Psychology, LLC (If you’re looking for therapy in Wisconsin, feel free to take a peek!)
Again and again, I've seen the same frustration: a child is bright and capable, but struggles to get started, stay organized, manage time, follow through, or regulate big reactions.
Parents are often told their child has ADHD or executive functioning challenges. What they don't always get is a clear explanation of what that actually means or practical guidance for what to do at home.
When I work with young people in therapy, there’s a limited amount of time to try to share all of the information that parents want and need. That's why I created Empowered Focus. I wanted to offer a place where parents could feel safe to learn and grow in ways to best support their children. Without having to learn by jumping down the rabbit hole of social media, trying to read a book that you don’t have time to read, or desperately searching for answers in online chats filled with confusing messages.
If you’re still reading, you’re probably interested in more details…so I will share them
A little more about me…
My combo of licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist basically makes me a rare hybrid: part mental health guide, part educational strategist. One parent even called me a “unicorn,” and honestly, I’ll take it.
I earned my PhD in Educational (School) Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and I’ve been in this field for over 20 years. Along the way, I’ve worn just about every hat you can imagine: psychologist, consultant, coach, trainer, program developer, director, and supervisor. But what really lights me up is teaching - helping people figure out systems that actually work, whether in schools or for busy working parents.
A while back, I realized I wanted to take all the strategies I’d shared with school teams and bring them to parents who were juggling everything and feeling stuck. That energy, those “aha” moments - that’s what makes it all worth it. And I wanted to create a space where it’s possible to make life easier and more joyful.
Outside of work, I’m a mom to two kids who keep me running and a wife to my husband of now 20 years. We started our family a little later than most, which means I’m probably the more “wrinkly” mom at soccer practice -but I wear those creases proudly. They’re proof that life is messy, full, and most importantly, worth it.
I love…
Coffee
Exercise- most kinds, but I really love spin and barre classes. I tolerate weights because it’s good for me.
Positive energy with ideas for future change
Constructive feedback
A well run meeting
Quick, healthy meals that don’t dirty every dish
Good listeners
Strengths-based approaches that celebrate differences
My family (probably should have started the list with that one)
Did I mention coffee?
I’m not so fond of…
A day with no caffeine
Sitting for too long
Negativity for the sake of negativity
Admiring the problem
Long meetings that could have been an email
Time-forced fast food dinners
Assumptions without facts
Deficit thinking
Mean people
Wasting time, money, or resources (which is why I care deeply about the services I provide)