Photo of Jamie T. Nowaczynski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Jamie T. Nowaczynski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTRP-C
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Hi there. My goal is to help everyone be the very best version of themselves. I will walk beside you in your journey and create a safe space to share, heal, and create a life that is meaningful to you. It is a tremendous honor to witness and be a part of each individual's growth and work towards serenity. I specialize in Trauma & Resilience, Adult and Children's Grief, Anxiety & Depression.
Hi there. My goal is to help everyone be the very best version of themselves. I will walk beside you in your journey and create a safe space to share, heal, and create a life that is meaningful to you. It is a tremendous honor to witness and be a part of each individual's growth and work towards serenity. I specialize in Trauma & Resilience, Adult and Children's Grief, Anxiety & Depression.
(269) 220-6954 x269598 View (269) 220-6954 x269598
Photo of Bobbie Jo Heiser-Abel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Bobbie Jo Heiser-Abel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
It's easy to get swept away by the daily struggle and getting back on track can be difficult. Something doesn’t feel right. Maybe you feel like you’re going through the motions or maybe you feel more on edge lately. You could have had these feelings for ages or for days. Even simply thinking about change can feel overwhelming. You want to feel better, but you don’t know where or how to start. You need help, and I’m here to help you.
It's easy to get swept away by the daily struggle and getting back on track can be difficult. Something doesn’t feel right. Maybe you feel like you’re going through the motions or maybe you feel more on edge lately. You could have had these feelings for ages or for days. Even simply thinking about change can feel overwhelming. You want to feel better, but you don’t know where or how to start. You need help, and I’m here to help you.
(269) 338-8191 View (269) 338-8191
Photo of Caitlin Morgan, Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Caitlin Morgan
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Finding someone that you feel comfortable being vulnerable with can be a challenge. As a counselor, I encourage you to be your authentic self and fully express your feelings. I will provide a safe space free of judgment in which you can explore your experiences and deepen your understanding of yourself. I often utilize humor, education, and warmth in sessions. My goal is to develop a holistic understanding of your worldview. I want to help you learn how to work with your brain, not against it.
Finding someone that you feel comfortable being vulnerable with can be a challenge. As a counselor, I encourage you to be your authentic self and fully express your feelings. I will provide a safe space free of judgment in which you can explore your experiences and deepen your understanding of yourself. I often utilize humor, education, and warmth in sessions. My goal is to develop a holistic understanding of your worldview. I want to help you learn how to work with your brain, not against it.
(269) 468-0223 View (269) 468-0223
Photo of Brandan Mitchell, Master Social Work in Kalamazoo, MI
Brandan Mitchell
Master Social Work, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Life experiences can impact us in surprising, often difficult and even traumatic ways leaving us feeling out of touch with ourselves and those around us. With over sixteen (16) years of experience working alongside individuals and families in a variety of clinical settings, my clinical approach begins with meeting you where you are at, without judgement or preconceived notions, to help create a safe, warm and welcoming environment for change. Combining my experience as a clinical social worker and as a parent, my aim is to provide resources and tools that can be used to breakdown the barriers that may exist in your life.
Life experiences can impact us in surprising, often difficult and even traumatic ways leaving us feeling out of touch with ourselves and those around us. With over sixteen (16) years of experience working alongside individuals and families in a variety of clinical settings, my clinical approach begins with meeting you where you are at, without judgement or preconceived notions, to help create a safe, warm and welcoming environment for change. Combining my experience as a clinical social worker and as a parent, my aim is to provide resources and tools that can be used to breakdown the barriers that may exist in your life.
(269) 241-8513 View (269) 241-8513
Photo of Robert Swiatek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Robert Swiatek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
My goal with anyone interested in counseling is to "meet you where you are at ". Feeling comfortable with your counseling experience is very important to me. With therapy, it is essential to provide non-judgmental feedback with an understanding that everyone is unique regarding their therapeutic needs. I am here to offer you a multidisciplinary approach regarding your concerns, rather than a "one size fits all approach". We investigate together the concerns that brought you into counseling with the idea of working together to sort out the important details. Bringing yourself to the origin of your concerns is the goal.
My goal with anyone interested in counseling is to "meet you where you are at ". Feeling comfortable with your counseling experience is very important to me. With therapy, it is essential to provide non-judgmental feedback with an understanding that everyone is unique regarding their therapeutic needs. I am here to offer you a multidisciplinary approach regarding your concerns, rather than a "one size fits all approach". We investigate together the concerns that brought you into counseling with the idea of working together to sort out the important details. Bringing yourself to the origin of your concerns is the goal.
(269) 215-2856 View (269) 215-2856
Photo of Kristi Merrills, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Kristi Merrills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a deep passion for community development, culture diversity and human connection. In my experience my clients know themselves better than anyone, they are their own best resource when it comes to choosing the right treatment for them. I see our time together as a joint venture, our knowledge combined creates the solutions and tools needed to uncover patterns and emotions they may not even be aware of. I know that no single approach is the right one for every individual. My role as a therapist is to support you to make choices that empower you, and help you explore and resolve your current predicaments, or diagnosis.
I have a deep passion for community development, culture diversity and human connection. In my experience my clients know themselves better than anyone, they are their own best resource when it comes to choosing the right treatment for them. I see our time together as a joint venture, our knowledge combined creates the solutions and tools needed to uncover patterns and emotions they may not even be aware of. I know that no single approach is the right one for every individual. My role as a therapist is to support you to make choices that empower you, and help you explore and resolve your current predicaments, or diagnosis.
(269) 231-4075 View (269) 231-4075
Photo of Brandy Burnham, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Kalamazoo, MI
Brandy Burnham
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
Even in the darkest of times hope can be found. There is always a reason to keep going! When your world is falling apart, and you feel that everything is stacked against you, a glimmer of hope can change your whole perspective. You are meant for more!
Even in the darkest of times hope can be found. There is always a reason to keep going! When your world is falling apart, and you feel that everything is stacked against you, a glimmer of hope can change your whole perspective. You are meant for more!
(269) 682-1043 View (269) 682-1043
Photo of Lauryn Ritchie, Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Lauryn Ritchie
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Your Journey is Yours to Tell. It is important to me that your voice is heard when telling your truth. I am a firm believer that you are the expert of your own life. We will work together to create a plan based on your identified needs and goals. I am not here to tell you how to move forward, but rather joining you on your journey of re-inventing and re-structuring yourself. I desire to push you out of your comfort zone yet within your safe zone. Your desire to alter your current state of mind will be the driving force through treatment.
Your Journey is Yours to Tell. It is important to me that your voice is heard when telling your truth. I am a firm believer that you are the expert of your own life. We will work together to create a plan based on your identified needs and goals. I am not here to tell you how to move forward, but rather joining you on your journey of re-inventing and re-structuring yourself. I desire to push you out of your comfort zone yet within your safe zone. Your desire to alter your current state of mind will be the driving force through treatment.
(269) 386-5832 View (269) 386-5832
Photo of Sarah Takacs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Sarah Takacs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Taking the first step towards growth and healing is always the hardest, and the fact that you are here means you are strong and resilient! I believe that people are the experts on their own lives, and I would love to learn what it's like to be you. I take a client-centered approach and am here to offer a safe, judgment-free space to hold whatever experiences or situations you want to share and process through.
Taking the first step towards growth and healing is always the hardest, and the fact that you are here means you are strong and resilient! I believe that people are the experts on their own lives, and I would love to learn what it's like to be you. I take a client-centered approach and am here to offer a safe, judgment-free space to hold whatever experiences or situations you want to share and process through.
(269) 215-4685 View (269) 215-4685
Photo of Stephanie Hyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Stephanie Hyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been working in the mental health field and as a clinical school counselor for over 29 years. With a passion for working with youth,I am dedicated to creating a nurturing and non-judgmental environment where young minds can thrive. I use a variety of child friendly techniques, personalized approaches and evidence-based techniques to help children explore their emotions. I enjoy helping youth develop goals around how they can continue to learn and grow into better versions of themselves throughout their childhood. I am committed to providing compassionate support every step of the way.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been working in the mental health field and as a clinical school counselor for over 29 years. With a passion for working with youth,I am dedicated to creating a nurturing and non-judgmental environment where young minds can thrive. I use a variety of child friendly techniques, personalized approaches and evidence-based techniques to help children explore their emotions. I enjoy helping youth develop goals around how they can continue to learn and grow into better versions of themselves throughout their childhood. I am committed to providing compassionate support every step of the way.
(269) 247-4585 View (269) 247-4585
Photo of Restoration Center in Kalamazoo, MI
Restoration Center
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
Our desire at the Restoration Center is to meet you where you are. We have a diverse group of therapists ready to be with you on your journey. Please visit our website where you will find our providers along with their specialities.
Our desire at the Restoration Center is to meet you where you are. We have a diverse group of therapists ready to be with you on your journey. Please visit our website where you will find our providers along with their specialities.
(269) 234-1792 View (269) 234-1792
Photo of Karissa B. Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Karissa B. Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
Life is full of twists & turns; seasons that are heavy & seasons we move through with ease. I believe we all can benefit from a listening ear & predictable support as we embrace a life of radical honesty. I count it one of my greatest joys to have the honor of holding space for others as they sit with their past, navigate their present, & dream of what their future could be. My approach is focused on strengths, & providing hope as we navigate life together. I'm passionate about meeting people with acceptance & hope; exactly where they are, however they show up in this world.
Life is full of twists & turns; seasons that are heavy & seasons we move through with ease. I believe we all can benefit from a listening ear & predictable support as we embrace a life of radical honesty. I count it one of my greatest joys to have the honor of holding space for others as they sit with their past, navigate their present, & dream of what their future could be. My approach is focused on strengths, & providing hope as we navigate life together. I'm passionate about meeting people with acceptance & hope; exactly where they are, however they show up in this world.
(269) 367-3931 View (269) 367-3931
Photo of Amanda Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Amanda Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Not accepting new clients
We can't determine the cards we get dealt, but we can decide how they get played. As a therapist, I am honored to walked alongside anyone who desires to explore personal goals that they may have and grow to be a better version of themselves. I believe each person deserves that opportunity no matter what their life may look like. I have experience working with youth diagnosed with severe emotional disturbances, family conflict, female survivors of domestic violence, refugees, as well as young adults on college campus.
We can't determine the cards we get dealt, but we can decide how they get played. As a therapist, I am honored to walked alongside anyone who desires to explore personal goals that they may have and grow to be a better version of themselves. I believe each person deserves that opportunity no matter what their life may look like. I have experience working with youth diagnosed with severe emotional disturbances, family conflict, female survivors of domestic violence, refugees, as well as young adults on college campus.
(269) 399-3067 View (269) 399-3067

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gabriel Kangas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Gabriel Kangas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCS
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49002  (Online Only)
My personal theoretical foundation is not limited to one approach. I believe it is necessary for counselors to be adaptive. Every client is different and our responses and approaches should be equally diverse. One person may need a cognitive behavioral approach whereas another would be more responsive to brief counseling. This eclectic approach will be applied to all clients. Techniques will vary between clients to best meet the individual client's needs.
My personal theoretical foundation is not limited to one approach. I believe it is necessary for counselors to be adaptive. Every client is different and our responses and approaches should be equally diverse. One person may need a cognitive behavioral approach whereas another would be more responsive to brief counseling. This eclectic approach will be applied to all clients. Techniques will vary between clients to best meet the individual client's needs.
(616) 205-9786 x92801 View (616) 205-9786 x92801
Photo of Arlene Giacona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Arlene Giacona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49002
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! Thank you for stopping by. I am a Social Worker and therapist with 20 years experience in the mental health field. What sets me apart though? I have a very passionate, upbeat personality that shines through in my practice. I work hard to help my clients see the strength they already have within and that I am just a facilitator to help them achieve any goal they set forth for themselves. I am honest and "real". I would be happy to chat with you about your goals and how we can work to achieve them together!
Hello! Thank you for stopping by. I am a Social Worker and therapist with 20 years experience in the mental health field. What sets me apart though? I have a very passionate, upbeat personality that shines through in my practice. I work hard to help my clients see the strength they already have within and that I am just a facilitator to help them achieve any goal they set forth for themselves. I am honest and "real". I would be happy to chat with you about your goals and how we can work to achieve them together!
(269) 241-8435 View (269) 241-8435
Photo of Gabriel Kangas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Gabriel Kangas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49002  (Online Only)
Gabriel Kangas is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 10 years of experience in mental health. He specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, children, and adolescents. He knows that every client is different—that's why his responses and approaches to therapy are diverse.
Gabriel Kangas is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 10 years of experience in mental health. He specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, children, and adolescents. He knows that every client is different—that's why his responses and approaches to therapy are diverse.
(269) 883-1465 View (269) 883-1465
Photo of Kari Vesey Wilcox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kalamazoo, MI
Kari Vesey Wilcox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LLP
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49024
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Limited Licensed Psychologist. I have worked in the field for over 20 years and have a variety of experience across multiple clinical environments. I have special interests in adoption/child welfare, trauma, developmental differences, anxiety, depression, life adjustments, grief and loss, career coaching, co-parenting, to name a few. I work with kids/youth of all ages and adults, with a love for teenagers and young adults transitioning to independent life. I am well-versed in community resources and services. I can also provide outreach to school or home if appropriate and desired.
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Limited Licensed Psychologist. I have worked in the field for over 20 years and have a variety of experience across multiple clinical environments. I have special interests in adoption/child welfare, trauma, developmental differences, anxiety, depression, life adjustments, grief and loss, career coaching, co-parenting, to name a few. I work with kids/youth of all ages and adults, with a love for teenagers and young adults transitioning to independent life. I am well-versed in community resources and services. I can also provide outreach to school or home if appropriate and desired.
(269) 231-4116 View (269) 231-4116

Online Therapists

Photo of Jordan Arntz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Jordan Arntz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Jordan Arntz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Jordan is passionate about helping clients develop realistic goals and achieving them. She works with those who have experienced child abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, domestic violence, human trafficking, depression, anxiety, grief, major life transitions, and difficulty with defiance. Jordan completed her Bachelor's degree in Social Work at Western Michigan University and obtained her Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from Spring Arbor University.
Jordan Arntz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental health field. Jordan is passionate about helping clients develop realistic goals and achieving them. She works with those who have experienced child abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, domestic violence, human trafficking, depression, anxiety, grief, major life transitions, and difficulty with defiance. Jordan completed her Bachelor's degree in Social Work at Western Michigan University and obtained her Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from Spring Arbor University.
(616) 333-8548 View (616) 333-8548
Photo of Taylor Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Taylor Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49441
I have worked with children and families in numerous positions from schools, therapy, and medical primary care settings. My passion lies in working with young children, teens, and families as they go through life transitions. I have completed a Sport Social Work Certification to work specifically with athletes who are struggling with mental health impacting their performance and within their personal life.
I have worked with children and families in numerous positions from schools, therapy, and medical primary care settings. My passion lies in working with young children, teens, and families as they go through life transitions. I have completed a Sport Social Work Certification to work specifically with athletes who are struggling with mental health impacting their performance and within their personal life.
(231) 241-1464 View (231) 241-1464
Photo of Kristi Kieu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kalamazoo, MI
Kristi Kieu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823
People seek out a therapist for a variety of reasons-day-to-day life stressors, unhelpful thoughts, or significant life transitions. I want to provide people with a space where they can process any of these topics in a compassionate and empathetic manner. Therapy is a journey and I seek to walk this journey by your side while empowering you to explore, identify, and live the best versions of your life.
People seek out a therapist for a variety of reasons-day-to-day life stressors, unhelpful thoughts, or significant life transitions. I want to provide people with a space where they can process any of these topics in a compassionate and empathetic manner. Therapy is a journey and I seek to walk this journey by your side while empowering you to explore, identify, and live the best versions of your life.
(517) 888-0977 View (517) 888-0977
Compassion Focused Therapists

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.