Meet the Team
Jack Gieche, M.S., L.P.C.
Co-founder and therapist
I have always been passionate about helping others. As the son of a social worker and veterinarian it is both in my genes and how I was raised. I grew up in small town Wisconsin and stay true to my roots of kindness, treating others how I want to be treated, respecting others and learning from them. My parents own their own small business and I grew up working for them and on farms while pursuing one of my other passions in life, playing soccer. I value hard work and recognize the courage it takes to invest in the hard work of therapy.
Having played soccer since a peewee and coached since high school I have been able to work with and learn from a wide range of people of all ages and backgrounds and feel this has further shaped me as a well rounded therapist. I still coach to this day, working with local goalkeepers. I think one of my favorite parts of both coaching and therapy is seeing peoples’ ability to grow and change and how rewarding it is for them and in turn for me!
I completed my undergraduate degrees at UW-Madison, GO Badgers! And, my master’s degree at UW-Whitewater, GO Warhawks! While I may be partial to rooting for my alma maters I promise not to discriminate against any rival fans. I do believe the best therapy is rooted in strong therapeutic rapport and relationship and welcome fun spirited exchanges.
After graduating from my master’s program I went to work in a community based residential facility working with a wide range of people with physical and mental health disabilities. At the same time I began working at Roger’s Behavioral Health on their child and adolescent and addictions units as a residential therapist.
My wife and I then lived in Denver for 3 years where I worked for the Mental Health Center of Denver in their school based day treatment program serving as a child and family therapist for students and their families. Upon moving back to WI I have worked at a residential addiction treatment program and two outpatient offices before deciding to open our own business with my colleague Lindsey, whom I have worked with at both our past two jobs. The diversity of my work experiences have helped me to learn that outpatient therapy best serves me and allows me to best serve the people I work with.
As an animal assisted therapist I am blessed to be able to work with my therapy dog Roo. We were lucky enough to find Roo at the humane society in Denver while we were there and felt she would be a great co-therapist. Roo was born without her front legs, but loves life and doesn’t let it slow her down at all. She enjoys saying hi over telehealth and snuggling or playing with people during in person sessions. I am blessed to be a parent of two dogs, two cats and one child.
I love being able to work with people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures. My specialty areas include work with youth 4 years old and up, teens, adults of all ages, trauma, substance use/AODA, adoption/foster care, anxiety, depression, couples/marriage, families, first responders, and animal assisted therapy. I enjoy helping people with all life’s challenges. My approach to therapy is client centered - meeting my clients where they are at to accomplish their goals, and I would be happy to discuss your needs so you can decide if I would be a good fit for you.
UW-Madison B.A. Psychology 2009
UW-Madison B.A. Legal Studies 2009
UW-Madison Certificate in Criminal Justice 2009
UW-Whitewater M.S. Counseling Psychology 2012
Specialized training in: TF-CBT, EMDR, Adoption Competency, Animal Assisted Therapy
Email: jack@rhizacounseling.com
Number: 608-535-1073
Hours: M - F 9:00am - 5:00pm
State of WI Credential/License Number: 6693-125
“It’s the heart afraid of breaking that never learns to dance. It is the dream afraid of waking that never takes the chance. It is the one who won’t be taken who cannot seem to give. And the soul afraid of dying that never learns to live.”
— Bette Midler