Adoption Therapists in Allegan County, MI

Photo of Jeffrey J LaPonsie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allegan County, MI
Jeffrey J LaPonsie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plainwell, MI 49080
Do you have a behaviorally challenging child whose struggling to follow directions. I help children with behavior problems, unresolved trauma and attachment/relationship problems. I help adopted and foster children connect and form meaningful relationships with caregivers. I use a variety of methods to help children and their family, predominantly though I use play therapy, parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (trauma-focused when needed).
Do you have a behaviorally challenging child whose struggling to follow directions. I help children with behavior problems, unresolved trauma and attachment/relationship problems. I help adopted and foster children connect and form meaningful relationships with caregivers. I use a variety of methods to help children and their family, predominantly though I use play therapy, parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (trauma-focused when needed).
(269) 626-2516 View (269) 626-2516
Photo of Jenna Walbeck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allegan County, MI
Jenna Walbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, MI 49419
Let’s face it, when life gets tough, it can be helpful to know you have someone to walk alongside you in your journey; to have a place where you can feel heard, valued, and supported. A place where you can express your honest feelings and develop strategies to improve your overall well being. To know that you are not alone. Whether you are looking for counseling for yourself, or your child, I am confident you will find our time together as an invaluable experience, where you have a deep-felt sense of support and understanding, where you feel confident in your ability to navigate life’s challenges.
Let’s face it, when life gets tough, it can be helpful to know you have someone to walk alongside you in your journey; to have a place where you can feel heard, valued, and supported. A place where you can express your honest feelings and develop strategies to improve your overall well being. To know that you are not alone. Whether you are looking for counseling for yourself, or your child, I am confident you will find our time together as an invaluable experience, where you have a deep-felt sense of support and understanding, where you feel confident in your ability to navigate life’s challenges.
(269) 386-6152 View (269) 386-6152
Jean Veenema-Birky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glenn, MI 49416
"Experienced, professional services in a private setting.
"Experienced, professional services in a private setting.
(269) 409-1979 View (269) 409-1979
Photo of Christina Schug, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allegan County, MI
Christina Schug
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayland, MI 49348
My goal is to create space for you to experience the freedom that comes with the challenging work of growth and healing. Whether you are a new mother in need of a place to sit with a cup of coffee and feel supported through postpartum adjustment; a parent who longs to help their child cope with trauma, or if you are ready to heal from trauma of your own, my door is open. It is my sincere honor to come alongside you as you take this courageous step toward tangible and positive life change.
My goal is to create space for you to experience the freedom that comes with the challenging work of growth and healing. Whether you are a new mother in need of a place to sit with a cup of coffee and feel supported through postpartum adjustment; a parent who longs to help their child cope with trauma, or if you are ready to heal from trauma of your own, my door is open. It is my sincere honor to come alongside you as you take this courageous step toward tangible and positive life change.
(269) 225-6802 View (269) 225-6802
Photo of Anna Starr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allegan County, MI
Anna Starr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plainwell, MI 49080
It is a humbling experience to work with individuals during times of difficulty. The emotions and behaviors of someone who is suffering can be intense. I know that many people, during times of crisis, just want the pain to end and have the problem resolved. Therapy can assist in that process. I believe God has called on me to help others face their suffering and I feel honored when people invite me to help them make changes in their lives. By integrating therapeutic expertise with God's direction, guidance and love, great change and healing is possible.
It is a humbling experience to work with individuals during times of difficulty. The emotions and behaviors of someone who is suffering can be intense. I know that many people, during times of crisis, just want the pain to end and have the problem resolved. Therapy can assist in that process. I believe God has called on me to help others face their suffering and I feel honored when people invite me to help them make changes in their lives. By integrating therapeutic expertise with God's direction, guidance and love, great change and healing is possible.
(269) 225-6476 View (269) 225-6476
Photo of Kate Smaller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allegan County, MI
Kate Smaller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Douglas, MI 49406
Do you feel stuck? Do you wish your relationships could feel more fulfilling? Are you tired of feeling bogged down by your past? While we are all unique and come from unique circumstances, we all have one thing in common: A desire to move forward. My approach to therapy allows you to do just that.
Do you feel stuck? Do you wish your relationships could feel more fulfilling? Are you tired of feeling bogged down by your past? While we are all unique and come from unique circumstances, we all have one thing in common: A desire to move forward. My approach to therapy allows you to do just that.
(269) 231-8404 View (269) 231-8404
Photo of Elizabeth T Stoumbos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allegan County, MI
Elizabeth T Stoumbos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Otsego, MI 49078
Life happens to each and every one of us. Sometimes life struggles are too much and we need help in our life journey. I believe counseling is a wonderful way to get the help that you need when the journey of life is just too much. I will meet you where you are and provide an atmosphere to be heard and to heal. I know that each person has their own unique story to share and I will provide you with the encouragement and guidance that therapy offers.
Life happens to each and every one of us. Sometimes life struggles are too much and we need help in our life journey. I believe counseling is a wonderful way to get the help that you need when the journey of life is just too much. I will meet you where you are and provide an atmosphere to be heard and to heal. I know that each person has their own unique story to share and I will provide you with the encouragement and guidance that therapy offers.
(517) 200-3992 View (517) 200-3992
Photo of Kimberly Jo Inman, Counselor in Allegan County, MI
Kimberly Jo Inman
Counselor, BSW, MS, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainwell, MI 49080
Have you or your child experienced trauma? Do you or your child suffer from self-harm issues or suicidal ideation? Or maybe you or your child suffer from a variety of life adjustment issues such as divorce, identity issues, racing thoughts or sadness? Then more than likely you or your child have experienced some kind of trauma. I am here to help. I have been worked with children, teens and families in crisis for 17 years in the scope of social work and this gives me a unique style paired with a wealth of knowledge. I look forward to helping you and your family make a connection that could change your life.
Have you or your child experienced trauma? Do you or your child suffer from self-harm issues or suicidal ideation? Or maybe you or your child suffer from a variety of life adjustment issues such as divorce, identity issues, racing thoughts or sadness? Then more than likely you or your child have experienced some kind of trauma. I am here to help. I have been worked with children, teens and families in crisis for 17 years in the scope of social work and this gives me a unique style paired with a wealth of knowledge. I look forward to helping you and your family make a connection that could change your life.
(269) 390-4055 View (269) 390-4055
Photo of Child & Family Psychological Services, PC, Psychologist in Allegan County, MI
Child & Family Psychological Services, PC
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Plainwell, MI 49080
It's about relationships . . . We're here to provide guidance in building and strengthening relationships between family members, friends, and even, with yourself. Caring and comprehensive counseling services for: Adults, teens and children of all ages, Individual, couples, family and group counseling.
It's about relationships . . . We're here to provide guidance in building and strengthening relationships between family members, friends, and even, with yourself. Caring and comprehensive counseling services for: Adults, teens and children of all ages, Individual, couples, family and group counseling.
(269) 359-3409 View (269) 359-3409
Photo of Konfara Counseling and Supervision, Licensed Professional Counselor in Allegan County, MI
Konfara Counseling and Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saugatuck, MI 49453
People enter into a counseling relationship when nothing else seems to be working. Although most people soon make comments such as, “(Counseling) was a lot better than I thought it would be”, few people seek counseling as a first option. More often we seek out techniques that either help us to temporarily avoid (e.g., media, social networking) our anxiety, or we seek temporary shots of pleasure (e.g., alcohol, food, pornography) that make us feel good for a short time. Soon enough we realize that all of these things leave us feeling more hollow and lonely, and that is when we start thinking about counseling.
People enter into a counseling relationship when nothing else seems to be working. Although most people soon make comments such as, “(Counseling) was a lot better than I thought it would be”, few people seek counseling as a first option. More often we seek out techniques that either help us to temporarily avoid (e.g., media, social networking) our anxiety, or we seek temporary shots of pleasure (e.g., alcohol, food, pornography) that make us feel good for a short time. Soon enough we realize that all of these things leave us feeling more hollow and lonely, and that is when we start thinking about counseling.
(616) 310-4614 View (616) 310-4614
Photo of Emily Darling-Funk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Allegan County, MI
Emily Darling-Funk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allegan, MI 49010
Do you worry about your child's behavior or emotional health? About your own emotional health? Maybe you are grieving the loss of a child? Take hope, because you have come to the right place. I have been walking beside women and couples struggling with these issues. I have seen many people in your place recover and begin to live more fulfilling and purposeful lives.
Do you worry about your child's behavior or emotional health? About your own emotional health? Maybe you are grieving the loss of a child? Take hope, because you have come to the right place. I have been walking beside women and couples struggling with these issues. I have seen many people in your place recover and begin to live more fulfilling and purposeful lives.
(616) 219-8640 View (616) 219-8640
Photo of Suzanne Meinke, Counselor in Allegan County, MI
Suzanne Meinke
Counselor, LPC, LMFT, CAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Plainwell, MI 49080
Waitlist for new clients
Finding the right person to talk to and connect with can be stressful, but it should be easy. My goal is to help you reach your goals in a comfortable, warm, and supportive environment; free from judgment and personal agendas. I'm a very real person, and encourage you to be your authentic self, F bombs and all! It's important for us to have a collaborative relationship where you feel free to share your thoughts, feelings, and opinions and make the changes that will improve your life. I am passionate about what I do, and look forward to helping you to free yourself from personal conflicts and stressors. Email for a quicker response.
Finding the right person to talk to and connect with can be stressful, but it should be easy. My goal is to help you reach your goals in a comfortable, warm, and supportive environment; free from judgment and personal agendas. I'm a very real person, and encourage you to be your authentic self, F bombs and all! It's important for us to have a collaborative relationship where you feel free to share your thoughts, feelings, and opinions and make the changes that will improve your life. I am passionate about what I do, and look forward to helping you to free yourself from personal conflicts and stressors. Email for a quicker response.
(269) 503-8883 View (269) 503-8883
Photo of The DBT Gym in Allegan County, MI
The DBT Gym
MA, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allegan, MI 49010
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
(248) 845-1789 View (248) 845-1789
Photo of Pacific Wellness, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allegan County, MI
Pacific Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saugatuck, MI 49453
My clients tend to be experiencing stress and want to find connections between past experiences, patterns of response, strong emotions and current life circumstances. Life transitions can feel overwhelming and loss can become a catalyst for change. This is often the beginning of an opportunity to gain greater understanding of our selves and the meaning we make in our lives.
My clients tend to be experiencing stress and want to find connections between past experiences, patterns of response, strong emotions and current life circumstances. Life transitions can feel overwhelming and loss can become a catalyst for change. This is often the beginning of an opportunity to gain greater understanding of our selves and the meaning we make in our lives.
(734) 212-8742 View (734) 212-8742
Photo of Morgan Lee Baughman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allegan County, MI
Morgan Lee Baughman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Plainwell, MI 49080
My passion for people has led me to many different experiences working with adults and children in the states and abroad. I particularly have focused my efforts on caregiver fatigue, co-morbid disorders, youth and young adults adjusting to disabilities, social skills building, autism, temporary family separation, infertility, divorce, anxiety, depression, and most recently complicated grief and loss.
My passion for people has led me to many different experiences working with adults and children in the states and abroad. I particularly have focused my efforts on caregiver fatigue, co-morbid disorders, youth and young adults adjusting to disabilities, social skills building, autism, temporary family separation, infertility, divorce, anxiety, depression, and most recently complicated grief and loss.
(269) 218-8850 View (269) 218-8850
Photo of Acacia A Place for Personal & Family Development in Allegan County, MI
Acacia A Place for Personal & Family Development
LMSW
Verified Verified
Allegan, MI 49010
Asking for help can be difficult. At Acacia, we understand that entering therapy can be a big step and how important it is that you feel respected, seen and heard. Our experience includes helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate difficult times in their lives. We work to help them feel empowered to make changes in their relationships, careers, or personal goals. Together, we will develop a treatment strategy that focuses on the issues and changes that you identify and are ready to address.
Asking for help can be difficult. At Acacia, we understand that entering therapy can be a big step and how important it is that you feel respected, seen and heard. Our experience includes helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate difficult times in their lives. We work to help them feel empowered to make changes in their relationships, careers, or personal goals. Together, we will develop a treatment strategy that focuses on the issues and changes that you identify and are ready to address.
(269) 671-7462 View (269) 671-7462
Photo of Christina Thomason, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allegan County, MI
Christina Thomason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Plainwell, MI 49080  (Online Only)
Asking for help can be difficult. I understand that entering therapy can be a big step and how important it is that you feel respected , seen and heard. My experience includes helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate difficult times in their lives and to feel empowered making changes in their relationships, careers or personal goals. Together, we will develop a treatment strategy that focuses on the issues and changes that you identify and are ready to address.
Asking for help can be difficult. I understand that entering therapy can be a big step and how important it is that you feel respected , seen and heard. My experience includes helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate difficult times in their lives and to feel empowered making changes in their relationships, careers or personal goals. Together, we will develop a treatment strategy that focuses on the issues and changes that you identify and are ready to address.
(269) 266-8264 View (269) 266-8264
Photo of Kari Nicole Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Allegan County, MI
Kari Nicole Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, MI 49419
Have you ever wished for a way to feel better and learn to manage your emotions or a way to a better future? I work with children and adolescents, and those who care for them. I have experience in the areas of stress reduction/coping, post-partum depression, anxiety, and grief and loss. With children, I treat trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief, and behavioral disorders such as ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I have also worked with PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) with children who have autism and are nonverbal.
Have you ever wished for a way to feel better and learn to manage your emotions or a way to a better future? I work with children and adolescents, and those who care for them. I have experience in the areas of stress reduction/coping, post-partum depression, anxiety, and grief and loss. With children, I treat trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief, and behavioral disorders such as ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I have also worked with PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) with children who have autism and are nonverbal.
(616) 441-0521 View (616) 441-0521

Online Therapists

Photo of Oriana Christina Bruno, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Allegan County, MI
Oriana Christina Bruno
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, ICAADC, CTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kentwood, MI 49512
Over the past eighteen years, I have worked in community mental health, residential and private practice facilities helping children, adolescents, and adults solve problems and make significant changes in their lives. I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist, Certified Trauma Specialist, Adoption Specialist and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I strongly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important element in making lasting changes. Helping you feel comfortable so we can build a trusting and secure relationship is my goal.
Over the past eighteen years, I have worked in community mental health, residential and private practice facilities helping children, adolescents, and adults solve problems and make significant changes in their lives. I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist, Certified Trauma Specialist, Adoption Specialist and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I strongly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important element in making lasting changes. Helping you feel comfortable so we can build a trusting and secure relationship is my goal.
(616) 871-2213 View (616) 871-2213
Photo of Robyn Heiler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Allegan County, MI
Robyn Heiler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring Lake, MI 49456
Waitlist for new clients
Special Interests: * Couples * Family Counseling * Infertility * Women's Issues * Behavioral issues in children * Mood and Anxiety Issues * Adjustment issues * Lifespan Adjustment * Adoption/foster care * Faith Based Counseling (upon request) *Cancer Support.
Life is hard. No one is immune to stress, fluctuating emotions, and various forms of challenges throughout their life. Taking the first step always takes bravery! You are not alone. We would aim to create a partnership wherein we would work to meet your personal goals by discovering and utilizing your strengths, engaging in problem solving, and implementing new strategies for change and growth. I would provide a safe, nonjudgmental, caring environment in which you could gain the comfort you need to grow in self-awareness and develop positive coping skills. I am trained in the state of MI to provide Clinical Supervision to LLPC's.
Special Interests: * Couples * Family Counseling * Infertility * Women's Issues * Behavioral issues in children * Mood and Anxiety Issues * Adjustment issues * Lifespan Adjustment * Adoption/foster care * Faith Based Counseling (upon request) *Cancer Support.
Life is hard. No one is immune to stress, fluctuating emotions, and various forms of challenges throughout their life. Taking the first step always takes bravery! You are not alone. We would aim to create a partnership wherein we would work to meet your personal goals by discovering and utilizing your strengths, engaging in problem solving, and implementing new strategies for change and growth. I would provide a safe, nonjudgmental, caring environment in which you could gain the comfort you need to grow in self-awareness and develop positive coping skills. I am trained in the state of MI to provide Clinical Supervision to LLPC's.
(616) 236-5219 View (616) 236-5219

See more therapy options for Allegan County

Adoption Therapists

Does my adopted child need therapy?

Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioral or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?

Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?

Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?

A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.