Alicia R. Oczus
(pronounced "Ah-LEE-sha OH-chuss") She/Her
Licensed Professional Counselor
Owner, Blackbird Psychotherapy, LLC
Take a deep breath. We've got this.
I am a licensed therapist in Wisconsin who specializes in working with parents and children of all ages-yes, even babies! As a parent myself, I know all too well how wonderful and challenging it is to raise kids, especially when they are struggling. It can be difficult to take that first step and reach out for help. Maybe you have tried in the past but felt like your concerns weren't taken seriously. Maybe you worried that you would be judged. Maybe you wonder if you are the only one having this experience. I have helped countless kids (and their important adults) learn about their experiences and ways to cope during hard times. In over 25 years of working with children and families, I've seen it all and I need to tell you...you are not alone..
Alicia Oczus is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Wisconsin and the owner of Blackbird Psychotherapy. With a deep commitment to children's development and mental health and wellness, Alicia has spent over 25 years working with youth and families.
Alicia earned her Master of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 2012, where she developed a strong foundation in counseling techniques and psychological theory. In 2020, she furthered her expertise by completing a fellowship with the Infant, Early Childhood, and Family Mental Health Capstone program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's School of Medicine and Public Health. This fellowship enhanced her understanding of early childhood mental health, equipping her with advanced skills to support vulnerable populations. In 2023, Alicia became a certified Pediatric Death Doula through the University of Vermont's Larner College of Medicine and volunteers her time with hospice.
In addition to her clinical work, Alicia has been actively involved in policy and advocacy for children's mental health. She previously served on the Executive Committee of the State of Wisconsin's Office of Children's Mental Health, where she contributed to initiatives aimed at improving mental health services for young people. In 2024, Alicia was appointed to the Wisconsin Council on Mental Health by Governor Tony Evers, reflecting her commitment to advancing mental health policy at the state level.
Alicia is trained in a variety of evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and attachment-based models. Her extensive training allows her to tailor her therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring that families receive the highest quality of care.
Outside of therapy, Alicia highly values time with family, friends, and making new memories. She is also an award-winning fiber artist and has had her work displayed in state and regional art shows.
Through her practice and advocacy work, Alicia Oczus continues to be a compassionate leader in the field of mental health, dedicated to fostering resilience and healing in children and families across Wisconsin.