A therapist in Grand Rapids, MI can offer treatment, mental health resources, and support whether you want to improve your mental well being, work on issues in your personal life, or have more specific concerns.
There are many therapy options in Grand Rapids. In-person counseling services can give you the safe and comfortable environment you need to navigate life's challenges. However, finding a therapist with an open appointment that fits your schedule can be challenging unless you’re willing to drive all over West Michigan. Online therapy with a platform like BetterHelp can make finding therapy options that work around your schedule, allowing you to get support from a highly trained professional in a nurturing environment from the comfort of your home.
Any therapist, whether online or in person, can help with a variety of concerns in a non-judgmental environment. During your first appointment, your therapist will get to know you and explain the therapeutic process they feel will work best for you. Whether you need to talk to someone about your sexual orientation, past experiences, or how to manage a mental health condition, connect with a Grand Rapids-based therapist to get started.
Marie Turner
Hello, My name is Marie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the States of DC - District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Michigan, and New Jersey. I have over 18 years of counseling experience. I am a Christian; believing in JESUS Christ, Spiritually centered, and rooted in the Word of GOD. I currently provide mental health, EAP, grief, personal, social, career, and educational counseling. I am a GriefShare service provider. With over 25 years in the field of higher education, I also provide academic, career, personal, and social counseling for adults, teens, adolescence, and children. I provide counseling to individuals, family, and group. I have experience in relationship counseling, working to resolve issues, and family conflict. I look forward to working together with you to resolve and meet any of your counseling needs. Some of the therapeutic approaches used are person (client)-centered, cognitive behavioral, and motivational interviewing therapy. I am also a Counseling Supervisor, providing services to Limited Licensed Counselors; Students in an University/College Practicum and Internship setting as Site Supervisor to meet state and academic requirements. I have experience counseling through the State of Michigan on cases of neglect, abuse, reunification, foster care, and knowledge with the child welfare system. "Reunification and wholeness" are the key; when there's a healthier treatment plan goal in mind.
Shawna Boomgaard
ABOUT ME Hello! My name is Shawna and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Advanced Certified Trauma Practitioner with over fifteen years of experience providing therapy services. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: educational settings, intensive outpatient care, managing a private practice and organizations. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma and relationship challenges from individual, group and family work. Originally from Seattle, I moved to Detroit, MI to continue my education and raise a family. I received my graduate degree in Clinical Social Work at Wayne State University in Detroit and my Educational Specialist post-graduate degree in Educational Leadership at Oakland University where I am currently a student in the PhD. program. My approach to therapy is client centered: clients are the experts on their lives and determine the direction and depth of therapy. Through a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens, I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I assist clients in exploring relationships among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to aid in discovering dysfunctional thought patterns leading to self-destructive behaviors and beliefs. Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I support clients through developing skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation with the goal of moving clients towards a life involving the capacity for experiencing joy and freedom. Outside of my work as a therapist, I practice mindfulness to help me maintain balance. I also enjoy reading, biking and spending time with my family and pets traveling. SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Relationship issues Self esteem Depression Coping with life changes Also experienced in: Addictions , LGBT , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Intimacy-related issues , Parenting issues , Anger management , Career difficulties , Bipolar disorder , ADHD Years of Experience: 15
Fran Adler
Hi! My name is Fran Cowen Adler and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the State of Michigan. I’ve worked as a therapist in a variety of private and group settings since earning my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in 1998. In the 25 years I’ve been in practice I’ve worked with teens, couples, families, Pride/LGBTQ clients, and individuals as young as 3 and as old as 80. I’ve helped people with depression; anxiety; stress; problems at work or at home; issues with family members or friends; relationship challenges; difficulty making decisions or finding satisfying work; struggles adjusting to change; grief over the death of a loved one or other significant loss. In other words, I work with individuals in emotional pain, a condition that simply comes with living life as a human being. If you’ve never seen a therapist before, you’ve probably had the experience of feeling better after talking with a trusted and compassionate family member or friend. One advantage of seeing a therapist is that this person exists outside of your personal life. You don’t need to be concerned about things like confidentiality. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with a nonjudgmental professional in a safe atmosphere of acceptance and support can be enormously helpful and therapeutic. Over these two decades of practice it has been my pleasure, honor, and privilege to help many people navigate their way forward through particularly challenging times. Thank you for your interest, and I hope to hear from you soon!
Julie Puggini
I am a warm, empathic, and compassionate therapist. I listen without judgment and am honored to help people achieve their goals. I want to impart hope, help heal old wounds, and provide a new way of understanding and navigating through life when faced with challenges. Through therapy you will be able to develop more strength, enhance your skills, nurture your inner-self and feel empowered. I have been a private practice practitioner, professor, and career counselor for over 20 years. Many of my patients have come to me for assistance with stress, life transitions, career transitions, sex therapy, relationship issues, and self-esteem difficulties. I enjoy utilizing neurobiology and psychodynamic psychotherapy to create discovery and understanding of the brain's neural operating systems and subsequent behavior patterns to assist with lasting changes. It is a wonderful journey to self discovery and personal growth. We will work together to create self-awareness, strengthen confidence, and model new patterns that create the way to living your best life and ultimately, peace of mind.
Shijuan Kelly
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma, anger, low self esteem, grief, rejection, abandonment, and loneliness. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe each person has worth and should be treated respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe truth brings about healing. I believe in partnering with people to help mend the broken pieces. I enjoy working with teens and adults. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, strengths based, and bibliotherapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Kimberly Butler
Greetings! My name is Kimberly Butler. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the States of Ohio and Michigan with over 35 years of experience in the helping field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues and transitions, parenting , career challenges, sexual abuse, trauma, grief, eating disorders as well as emotional abuse. Counseling 11 years in a group home for unwed mothers provided me with a wide range of experiences, including adoption. I have spent the last 24 years in private practice. Nearly 40 years of marriage and the raising of 8 children has added much substance to that experience giving me many opportunities to learn to show compassion and empathy. I believe in treating all people with respect and dignity. and do my best to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and client centered therapy. I look forward to tailoring our dialog and your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Know there is someone willing to walk with you as you begin your journey to healing and health. I look forward to working with you!
Emily Bender
I am licensed in both Michigan and Maine with a decade of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have internal strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and you should be proud of yourself for getting started!
David Dakroub
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have worked with individuals with mental health issues in both a hospital and private practice settings for over 20 years. You can read more about my background, education, experience and therapy approach by clicking on my name above our messages. I generally check messages here a few times per day Monday through Saturday and usually respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. I do my best job helping clients through Christ-centered, Spirit-led counseling. This is counseling that addresses our root issues by reaching and treating the core of our three-part beings–,humans being spirit, soul and body. I believe most of our problems can be dealt with just by bringing your thoughts, attitudes and beliefs out and into the light through Client-Centered Therapy. It is then where we can see and treat the real issues using a combination of Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This is just a few of the simple way of bringing relief and answers to what has been bothering you. I believe that I can help you with what has been weighing on you and get you back on track to the kind of life you deserve.
Antoinette Ali
I am licensed in Michigan with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Julie Miller
I am licensed in Michigan with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd). I also have worked in the past few years in the area of empowerment with women through adventure and recreation therapy. Nature and movement has a natural healing element and it's a great tool at our disposal. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Grand Rapids
Finding the best therapist close by in Grand Rapids can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services in Grand Rapids that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Grand Rapids. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Grand Rapids, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Grand Rapids region and in the state of Michigan. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Grand Rapids or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Grand Rapids area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Grand Rapids therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Grand Rapids, elsewhere in Kent, or in the greater state of Michigan.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Grand Rapids area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Grand Rapids therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Grand Rapids due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Grand Rapids may not take health insurance, some in the state of Michigan may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Michigan you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Grand Rapids online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Grand Rapids, Michigan working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Grand Rapids psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Grand Rapids above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Grand Rapids helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Grand Rapids therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Grand Rapids therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Grand Rapids?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Grand Rapids therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Grand Rapids therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Grand Rapids therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Grand Rapids therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in MI, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 49555 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Grand Rapids counselor?
Before seeing your Grand Rapids therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Grand Rapids.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A Grand Rapids licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy with a Grand Rapids counselor can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Grand Rapids, Michigan can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Grand Rapids has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Grand Rapids, Michigan
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Grand Rapids:
49501, 49502, 49503, 49504, 49505, 49506, 49507, 49508, 49510, 49514, 49515, 49516, 49518, 49523, 49530, 49546, 49555, 49560, 49588, 49599