About

My name is Jeff Hamm and I am a relatively new (but not young) social worker.

I worked at UW-Madison for over 30 years, the last 20 years as the student academic affairs dean in the School of Education. This was tremendously satisfying work—we helped undergraduate students achieve their academic goals and overcome personal challenges.

As retirement approached, I wanted to work with individuals in a deeper way. I transitioned from dean to graduate student, and pursued my MSW in the UW-Madison School of Social Work. My training included internships at the UW Health and VA memory assessment and geriatric clinics, where staff especially served individuals and families affected by dementia.

After graduation I worked at the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin, first as a part-time dementia outreach specialist and then as agency director. For a year I was also the organization’s Dane County dementia outreach specialist.

I have been interested in psychotherapy for decades. I completed graduate course work in geriatric mental health, cognitive behavioral therapy, and substance use disorders, and have training in motivational interviewing. While still learning my craft, I spent years working with individuals who were in distress, facing changes and challenges, and grappling with significant life decisions. I look forward to our work together.

Please meet my grand-dogs, Birdie and Penny.