The Heart of Heart Line Counseling

Owner, Director, Supervisor, & Psychotherapist

Kayla Seitz, LCSW, CSTOP

With over 12 years of experience, and as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I'm deeply committed to fostering self-empowerment and providing a laid-back and welcoming therapeutic experience for my clients. I firmly believe in the importance of walking alongside my clients in their journey, rather than imposing directives or ultimatums. My specialties include medical and behavioral health integration, trauma-informed interventions, and a holistic approach to psychotherapy. At Heart Line Counseling, clients can expect a safe space to explore interventions tailored to their unique needs and goals.  Outside of my work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and three beautiful children. I find solace in diving into mystery books, savoring a cup of tea on the porch while soaking in nature's beauty, and preparing delicious meals for my family to enjoy. It's my passion to empower individuals on their path to healing and growth.

Kayla is not accepting new patients at this time.

Veronica McCarthy, APSW

Hi I’m Veronica, I am the Operations Manager for Heart Line as well as a Psychotherapist. Healing is not just about coping—it’s about rediscovering the parts of yourself that feel whole, connected, and alive. As a wife, mother, and Licensed Advanced Practice Social Worker, I bring both professional expertise and real-life understanding to the work I do. My approach blends attachment-based and relational therapy, humanistic values, and trauma-informed care, with practical tools from CBT and the creativity of play therapy and other methodology. 

I work with individuals and families navigating the effects of trauma, domestic violence, codependency, and difficult family dynamics, along with much more. I’m especially passionate about helping parents strengthen bonds with their children and supporting children in the foster system. Together, we focus not only on healing from the past but also on building relationships and futures that feel safe and fulfilling.

Clients often tell me they feel truly heard and understood in our sessions. That’s because I believe therapy works best when it’s collaborative—when we sit down together as equals, explore your story without judgment, and find the next steps that make sense for you.

Outside the therapy room, I’m often cuddling with my twin children and/or husband, curling up with a good book, or exploring new places with my family and pets. These everyday moments keep me grounded in the very things I help my clients build: balance, connection, and joy.

Veronica is accepting new patients.

Anneliese Vandre, LPC, EMDR Specialist

As a person-centered therapist, my purpose is to support you in tapping into your own wisdom and inner strengths as you navigate challenges and learn new skills that resonate with you along the way. Whether you are experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, or lifestyle changes, I will partner with you to create a plan to achieve your goals, while providing a safe and empowering space for reflection and self-expression. With me as your guide, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy can help you to experience an increased sense of calm and well-being while healing from traumatic events. My background in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), polyvagal practices, mindfulness, and transpersonal psychology can also support you in connecting with your best, most authentic self. 

I received a Master's Degree in Psychology from Capella University in 2011 and completed an additional two years of coursework in Counseling at Lakeland University in Madison. I have over seventeen years of human services experience,  including domestic violence education and advocacy, mental health service coordination, and psychotherapy. In my spare time, I find crochet, quilting, and hiking Wisconsin’s state parks to be relaxing and restorative. I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with you in your own journey of healing and transformation.

Please contact our office if you are interested in scheduling with Anneliese.

Heather Hoene, LPC-IT

Rise and shine! I come to you with a bachelor's degree in Clinical Psychology and 15 years of clinical experience holding a variety of roles in the field. Currently, I am completing a double-master's degree at Viterbo University and am continuing now continuing with Heartline Counseling and Consulting during my internship and hopefully beyond.  My background includes experience with Autism treatment, implementing skills practice with ABA, Play-based and Early Start Denver Model approaches. I also carry a unique set of adventure-based therapeutic styles, which holds a very compassionate piece of my heart. Other experiences entail trauma-informed care, engagement in SUD Grant work through Viterbo University's RESPOND program, and multicultural diverse populations.

Setting experiences include: working with parents, couples, families and children ages 6 and older. Areas of specialty include: Autism, ADHD, executive functioning skills, Sensory-based regulation, dual diagnosis, amongst others. The modalities from the Whole-Brain Child, Beyond Behaviors, IFS, PDA, and the works of Ross Green and Bessel van Der Kolk inspire me. I bring enthusiasm, compassion, and hold a strong belief in the benefits of exploring the outdoor world, to connect with oneself and others. Planting seeds in the importance of embracing individuality, healing self-concept, relationship, communication and building an understanding of how the brain and heart connect are reflections I am keen on.

Two favorite affirmations that I carry with me in my back pocket each day are, "Rain or shine" and "You can't have a rainbow, without a little rain." Life can bring sun, life can bring contentment, and life can sometimes bring storms. Together I hope to adjust our sails side-by-side, and make each of those parts a work of heart.

Heather is accepting new patients.

Nick Fenn, LPC-IT

Nice to meet you! I'm Nick, LPC-IT! I graduated from Viterbo University with a Masters of Mental Health Counseling in 2025, and I’m excited to bring those skills to the Heart Line team. My focus lies primarily in the therapeutic environment, fostering a non-judgmental and empathic space where individuals can gain deeper insight and understanding into their issues. I have treatment experience with multiple diagnoses, including mood, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders, with additional areas of focus in LGBTQ+ Issues, Self-Harming Behaviors, and Psychotic Disorders. I follow a person-centered mindset, meaning I believe there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. As such, I utilize multiple approaches and modalities in my practice, including cognitive and dialectic behavioral therapies (CBT and DBT), psychodynamic therapy, narrative therapy, and expressive arts techniques. Outside of sessions, I enjoy playing video games and watching shows with my husband, or hanging out with my two cats, Mac and Marx! I hope to work with you soon!

Nick is accepting new patients.

Katherine DeLeon, BSW, MSW Intern 

Hi, I’m Katherine, a social work intern here at Heart Line Counseling. I believe that healing is possible when we feel safe, supported, and understood. My goal is to create an environment where clients do not have to face hard things alone. I’m committed to walking alongside clients as they navigate life’s challenges and uncover their own capacity for growth and resilience.

I’m passionate about trauma-informed and relational care and have worked closely with individuals and families navigating trauma, grief, homelessness, complex family dynamics, and major life transitions. I value holistic care, collaborative support, and interventions that center safety and empowerment.

Currently, I am completing my Master of Social Work with a clinical concentration at the University of Kentucky and plan to pursue licensure as a clinical social worker. My approach integrates strengths-based work, CBT and motivational interviewing, trauma-responsive interventions, and the belief that every client brings invaluable wisdom into the room. 

Outside of practice, I’m a military spouse, mother of two, and community advocate. I find peace in gardening, reading, and spending time outdoors in all seasons. I value authenticity, empathy, and creating space for people to show up as they are.

Katherine is accepting new patients.

 Kai Babcock, Clinical Trainee

Hi, my name is Kai, and I am a counselor-in-training currently completing my Master’s degree in Counseling at Winona State University. I am committed to creating a welcoming, supportive space for individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, and I am open to working with clients facing a wide range of challenges.

I have experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum and particularly enjoy working with children and adolescents. I am deeply passionate about helping others and strive to foster understanding, growth, and meaningful change in each person I work with.

Outside of counseling, I enjoy spending time with friends, playing games, being outdoors, and staying active. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey.

Kai is accepting new patients.

Kama Tesar, Clinical Trainee.

Welcome; it’s nice to meet you! My name is Kama Tesar, and I am a clinical intern hailing from the Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. I am close to finishing my Master’s in Social Work this December! I am passionate about helping neurodivergent children, youth, and young adults reach their fullest, healthiest potential, and in a way that prioritizes the youth’s voice and choice. I believe in the family teaming approach to mental wellness, and have seen the value in collaboration across disciplines to achieve balance and understanding within the different sectors of our lives. I believe that everyone deserves more than a second chance, as few get it right on the first try. 

Although I have the most experience with youth and families, I welcome the opportunity to work with people of all backgrounds and walks of life. I hope together, we can learn from one another in the therapeutic space, as we work towards your identified goals. Some of the other therapeutic frameworks that I resonate with in and outside of treatment are mindfulness practices, person-centered motivational interviewing, and Dialectal-Behavioral Therapy (DBT). 

Outside of my work at Heart Line as a clinical intern, I work part-time at a residential care facility teaching emotional regulation, leisure, and coping skills to those with different abilities than myself. My hobbies include all things arts and crafts, reading, and family time with my parents and fish. 

I look forward to working with you. Your story matters; thank you for being here!

Kama is accepting new patients.

Tiffany Waldhart, Clinical Trainee. 

Hi I’m Tiffany! Art has always been a meaningful part of my life, but it was during high school that I began to understand art not just as something we create, but as a way to explore thoughts, express emotions, and support healing. As a graduate student pursuing my Master’s degree in Art Therapy and Counseling at Edgewood University, I enjoy helping clients discover how creativity can become a powerful tool for insight, connection, and growth.

I work with individuals and families across the lifespan and am especially passionate about supporting people in developing healthier relationships, increasing emotional awareness, and building confidence in their ability to navigate life’s challenges. I believe that creative expression can open doors to understanding ourselves in ways words sometimes cannot, and I enjoy helping clients expand their mental health “toolkit” through both traditional counseling and art-based approaches.

I approach therapy with curiosity, compassion, and a strong belief in each person’s capacity for growth. As Carl Jung wrote, “the sole purpose of human experience is to kindle a light in the darkness of mere being.” I see therapy as a space where that light can be discovered, strengthened, and shared through listening, learning, and kindness.

Outside of my work, I enjoy spending time in nature, being around animals, photography, and creating with my hands, whether that’s painting, building something outdoors, or working on a new project at home. I have been married for over 20 years and am the parent of two children, experiences that continue to shape my appreciation for connection, resilience, and lifelong learning.

I look forward to learning, growing, and creating together.

Tiffany is accepting new patients.

Amanda Friell, Clinical Trainee. 

Hello! My name is Amanda, an intern with Heart Line, currently pursuing my master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marquette University. I am passionate about creating a warm, supportive space where individuals feel heard, respected, and understood. My approach to counseling is person-centered, meaning I believe each person is the expert on their own life. I strive to meet clients where they are, offering empathy, authenticity, and a nonjudgmental presence throughout the therapeutic process.

My background includes experience in crisis intervention and working with substance use coping, along with a specialization in supporting children and adolescents. Throughout my training and work, I have also had the opportunity to connect with individuals across a wide range of ages, identities, and life experiences, which has strengthened my ability to adapt my approach to meet each client’s unique needs. I deeply value autonomy within the counseling relationship and aim to empower clients to make choices that align with their values and goals. Building a trusting and collaborative environment is central to my work. I believe meaningful growth happens when people feel safe to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly. 

Outside of my professional journey, I enjoy spending time with my family, animals, and assisting in the socialization of sheltered dogs. I have a special interest in assistive animal therapy, which I find both inspiring and impactful, and I look forward to exploring this area further in my future practice. I look forward to meeting you! 

Amanda is accepting new patients.

Find the therapist that best suits your needs.

Now that you’ve met us; breathe. We’re ready if you are.