Self Esteem, Anxiety, Depression, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About George
George Wanke is a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 49 years of experience working with a wide variety of clients, from pre-teens to adults. George specializes in treating individuals who are struggling with mood management, thought distress, and behavioral mental health conditions such as ADHD, conduct disorder, or substance abuse issues.
George received his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas and was a Family Therapy Training Supervisor for the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry. George has a strong familiarity with cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as DBT, and has taught DBT classes to groups in the past.
George believes that validation is a key component of the therapy process and setting mutually accepted goals is one of his favorite parts of working with clients. By partnering with George, he can help you to process major life transitions, mental health conditions, or interpersonal issues with a growth mindset, sharing his own experience and wisdom to guide your progress within each session.
"As a parent myself, I know how much you care about your child doing well and getting along in school."
Get to know George
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
I have mild ADD and raised children with this issue. Teasing, bullying, academic struggle, self esteem and acceptance of self were all part of life throughout every stage from childhood to adulthood.
What types of clients to you work with best?
Clients that like moving, changing, growing and pursuing different understandings.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
Clients that have lots of different things to work on at once.
What’s one thing you wish all clients knew?
That their efforts to be happy and successful have been good attempts.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
Thriveworks encouraged my working the schedule I liked working.
What inspires you?
When I started as a social worker many years ago it was a small ad from the newspaper that read merely "do you like helping people." I started my career because the answer was "yes."
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
A lot of talk about them, their efforts, their successes and their challenges.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
A healthy introduction, a basic understanding, a beginning vision, and a future commitment.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
Racquetball, golf, walking, reading, bicycling, caring for grandchildren.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
That whatever happens long term, scheduling the first session is very brave and I'm proud of them for doing so.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 49 years
- Graduating institute
- University of Kansas
- Graduating degree
- Master of Social Work
Additional details
Practice information
Publications, Accomplishments & Awards
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