Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI

Are you exhausted from trying to cope with your mental health challenges, or feeling hopeless as you watch your child struggling? I primarily work with people wrestling with mental-health challenges such as depression/anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges or difficulties coping with cycles of self-harm. I specialize in working with people diagnosed with BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder) as well as parents of children with BPD or other mental health challenges. I am a LGBTQIA+ welcoming counselor, antiracism educator, and offer Christian counseling if desired. I'm not licensed to provide substance abuse treatment.

As a Master’s level clinician I strive to help clients improve their lives and learn new skills, techniques, ways of viewing themselves, and the world around them in a way that may reduce pain and suffering. I frequently use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to help empower and guide individuals in their healing journey. I believe we are all capable of finding relief, strength, and a new way of perceiving ourselves and our environment, despite the difficult and unique challenges we face.

Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy (KEBT) is an individually owned practice bringing together therapists trained in and practicing evidence based therapy including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, exposure-based therapies for anxiety, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and radically open DBT (RODBT) for issues of over-control. KEBT is founded by psychologist, Victoria Cane, who specializes in the treatment of emotion dysregulation disorder (a more accurate name for borderline personality disorder), eating disorders, and LGBTQIA-affirmative therapy.

I am certified in DBT and CCTP (certified clinical trauma professional) levels I/II. My clinical expertise focuses on trauma/PTSD, borderline and other personality disorders, eating disorders, couples/infidelity issues, self-harming behaviors, criminal thinking and behavior, and mood disorders. Other areas of clinical experience and treatment provided include blended families/family conflict, military personnel deployment/redeployment/combat trauma, and LGBTQ issues.

I’ve worked in in the mental health field for nearly 25 years, in inpatient and residential settings, as well as in the community. I’ve worked with diverse populations, primarily with adults of all ages, and also have experience working with adolescents who’ve experienced significant trauma. I’ve worked extensively with individuals diagnosed with severe anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation (and attempts), mood disorders, psychosis, borderline personality disorder, as well as intellectual disabilities and neurodevelopmental differences. I believe mental health services should be accessible to all and seek to make that a reality.

Chris Lawitzke is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 3.5 years of experience. He works with teens, adults, and seniors to identify their goals and work through issues related to addictive disorders, anxiety disorders, behavioral modification, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorder (BPD), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), depression, LGBTQIA+-related issues, PTSD, stress, and more.

My name is Dorothy Aguwa. I completed my master’s degree in Social Work at Wayne State University in 1989 in Detroit, Michigan with over 32 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings, including outpatient specialty clinics, crisis intervention, structured outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, private practice, and case management. I have a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals and groups across the life span in the areas of mood disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, anger and stress management, family and relationship issues, anxiety disorders and borderline personality disorder.

I have worked in the mental health field since 2019 and have a strong background in assessment as well as DBT and CBT focuses. I primarily work with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar, and BPD. For me, the focus of behavioral health treatment is balancing between acceptance and change - working hard together to embrace the things we cannot control, and problem-solve the things that we can. In addition to processing, cognitive reframing, and challenging thoughts, I place a strong value in skills-based psycho-education. So if you are looking to enhance your tool-belt of coping skills, I may be the right fit for you!

Join me and jump in! My job is to guide and support you as you build a life worth living. I work with motivated individuals, couples, and families to go after their dreams, make life's difficult decisions, and move forward. I work with clients holistically and collaboratively. I believe that the core of therapy should be the relationship that we form during our work together. I will work hard to know and understand you. Using evidence-based techniques and therapies, I hope to help you make a difference in your life.

I talk about real solutions to daily problems and functioning including skills to prepare us for when things inevitably shift day to day. I support clients in identifying their goals, building upon strengths and skills they already possess, and learning skills to adapt to life's challenges. Through processing and coping we will work together to tackle your concerns (such as anxiety, depression, domestic abuse or violence, grief, self esteem, self-harming, suicidal ideation, stress, trauma, and whatever else is on your mind) and try to create long lasting positive change. I'm eager to help you achieve your personal goals!

Sometimes, it can seem like there is a feeling or "voice" inside us throwing us off, pulling us in different directions. I am here to help you understand more about that emotional voice: where it comes from, why it’s there, and what it means. We will give you the best chance to succeed by focusing on the best of you and what works for you. We will gradually confront what challenges you, and do so together. If you are off balance in what feels like a hopeless or permanent way, just know you are not alone. I can help. You matter to me, and you deserve to be heard and seen. Let's start that journey together!

Deciding to seek help can be one of the most difficult but rewarding steps you will take in your healing journey. The sadness, anger, disappointment, frustrations, stress or confusion you may be feeling does not have to be your life's story. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, self-esteem or personal issues, you deserve all that life has to offer and you do not have to feel alone.

My professional experience has primarily been in working with children and families. I have experience working with refugee and immigrant populations from all areas of the world, including but not limited to Central America, East Africa, and the Middle East. I have also worked with survivors of sexual trauma. I have extensive experience in working with youth. I continue to receive continuing education in order to stay updated on the most evidence based clinical practices and am currently pursuing increased training in DBT specific to working with adults and adolescents. I take a whole-family approach to treatment whenever possible.

Taylor Stanton is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with over 4 years of experience in the mental health field. She is excited to work with adolescents and young adults. Taylor is passionate about helping individuals address their challenges with substance use, eating disorders, anxiety, stress, depression, women's issues, family conflict, and more.

Asking for help can be challenging so give yourself credit for taking the first step. I am honored to serve as a guide and provide support while you work through this part of your life. My goal is to provide a safe and judgement free environment where you can navigate the challenges of everyday life and process past experiences.

I strive to create a compassionate and safe environment in which clients can share their concerns openly and feel heard. My role in working with individuals is to meet them where they're at and support them amidst any challenges or difficulties life will present. I value the experience, background, and complexity of each individual who steps into the counseling room and I understand that each individual’s lived experience is unique, and this experience provides powerful tools and perspectives in the counseling process. As a therapist, my primary goal is to walk alongside my clients as they heal, grow, and thrive.

I have openings! If you were told you did not matter growing up, through actions or words, this will have an impact on your ability to recognize your worth. Growing up in a home with alcohol abuse, homophobia, emotional abuse, or excessive criticism can lead to feelings of worthlessness, shame, and self hatred. You may seek validation from others and fear their disapproval. This often leads to putting others needs before your own. Not understanding your worth, you may struggle following your dreams or have a career where you feel overworked and under valued. Let's flip the script, heal your wounds, and accept the person you are.

If you or your child are living with strong emotions, suicide attempts, self-harming, hospitalizations, chronic relationship/behavioral issues, or roller coaster emotions; life is very tough. You may feel like you are held hostage by these emotions and have a difficult time imagining that a 'normal' or healthy life is even possible. As a therapist trained in the specialty of DBT therapy, I believe that EVERYONE is capable of creating a life worth living.

Making the decision to seek therapy is a courageous step toward improving your current situation. I am aware that finding the right therapist is another important step in your journey. I understand that every successful therapy experience begins with a genuine and honest connection between client and therapist. I work with my clients to create a safe, warm, and supportive environment that allows clients to explore and manage their most pressing concerns.