Photo of Us And Kids Communication Program, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Us And Kids Communication Program
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
Couples with young kiddo are particularly at risk for marriage and family strife because they are so busy, and because there is so much that is new to their brains, emotions and relationship. Figuring out how to be both mom and dad as well as husband and wife is often overwhelming and troubling. Tension builds when the relationship energy gets split between kiddos needs (and there are a lot of them!) and marriage needs (and those are valid as well). The energy to figure out how to integrate all those needs, wants, wishes becomes divided and divisive. Disconnected and discontent brew and relationship trouble stews. What to do?
Couples with young kiddo are particularly at risk for marriage and family strife because they are so busy, and because there is so much that is new to their brains, emotions and relationship. Figuring out how to be both mom and dad as well as husband and wife is often overwhelming and troubling. Tension builds when the relationship energy gets split between kiddos needs (and there are a lot of them!) and marriage needs (and those are valid as well). The energy to figure out how to integrate all those needs, wants, wishes becomes divided and divisive. Disconnected and discontent brew and relationship trouble stews. What to do?
(616) 843-0985 View (616) 843-0985
Photo of Gayle Witham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Gayle Witham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACM, CPM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I want you to be able to deal with life on life's terms, and to find meaningful purpose in work, family, friendships, spirituality and all other life areas.
Therapy is not a one-sided conversation; in fact it is an interaction with another person for real discovery and wellness. I can promise you I am as real as it gets. I want to help you achieve the changes you are looking for as well as see you discover the new you. I do not believe growth and discovery have to always be an uncomfortable experience. Reaching out to a therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment and maybe a few deep breaths to call and see how I can help.
I want you to be able to deal with life on life's terms, and to find meaningful purpose in work, family, friendships, spirituality and all other life areas.
Therapy is not a one-sided conversation; in fact it is an interaction with another person for real discovery and wellness. I can promise you I am as real as it gets. I want to help you achieve the changes you are looking for as well as see you discover the new you. I do not believe growth and discovery have to always be an uncomfortable experience. Reaching out to a therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment and maybe a few deep breaths to call and see how I can help.
(616) 379-6704 View (616) 379-6704
Photo of Miranda Ward, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Miranda Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
Within a family systems approach, attachment is at the center of connection.
It can be difficult to begin the process of therapy. I am honored to support couples, families and individuals who want to begin to do that work. I offer a relational space that focuses on feeling safe and understood. My approach is from a family systems lens with somatic influences. It is the focus of my work to support the repair of broken relationships with others and one self through emotional exploration. Areas of interest include but are not limited to family and couple relationships, sexual intimacy, non-traditional families, addiction, high conflict, the family court system, play therapy and more.
Within a family systems approach, attachment is at the center of connection.
It can be difficult to begin the process of therapy. I am honored to support couples, families and individuals who want to begin to do that work. I offer a relational space that focuses on feeling safe and understood. My approach is from a family systems lens with somatic influences. It is the focus of my work to support the repair of broken relationships with others and one self through emotional exploration. Areas of interest include but are not limited to family and couple relationships, sexual intimacy, non-traditional families, addiction, high conflict, the family court system, play therapy and more.
(616) 504-6393 View (616) 504-6393
Photo of Matthew M. Ready, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Matthew M. Ready
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
However, since 2007, my scope and expertise have broadened to include individual mental health treatment, family therapy, couples therapy, trauma, anger management and substance abuse/ addiction treatment.
The relationship between client and clinician is a key component of treatment efficacy. I believe that this therapeutic relationship is founded in a spirit of collaboration, an emotional bond and an agreement on goals and tasks. Two main characteristics of therapy are critical to the building of this therapeutic alliance: expertise and compassion. I am confident in my ability to help resolve any issues in a satisfying manner, prepared in both theory and practice, clear in my thoughts, ideas, and logical in the problem solving process. Of equal importance, I am accepting, understanding and genuinely interested in you and your needs.
However, since 2007, my scope and expertise have broadened to include individual mental health treatment, family therapy, couples therapy, trauma, anger management and substance abuse/ addiction treatment.
The relationship between client and clinician is a key component of treatment efficacy. I believe that this therapeutic relationship is founded in a spirit of collaboration, an emotional bond and an agreement on goals and tasks. Two main characteristics of therapy are critical to the building of this therapeutic alliance: expertise and compassion. I am confident in my ability to help resolve any issues in a satisfying manner, prepared in both theory and practice, clear in my thoughts, ideas, and logical in the problem solving process. Of equal importance, I am accepting, understanding and genuinely interested in you and your needs.
(616) 374-6390 View (616) 374-6390
Photo of Dr. Kristin Vanden Hoek, Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Dr. Kristin Vanden Hoek
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Kristin earned her Bachelor's degree from Calvin College, and her Master's and Doctoral degree from Wheaton College. Kristin enjoys working with adolescents, adults, and families, who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief. Kristin is trained as a generalist psychologist and also completed specialized training and concentrations in Marriage & Family, and Children & Adolescent Treatment.
Kristin earned her Bachelor's degree from Calvin College, and her Master's and Doctoral degree from Wheaton College. Kristin enjoys working with adolescents, adults, and families, who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief. Kristin is trained as a generalist psychologist and also completed specialized training and concentrations in Marriage & Family, and Children & Adolescent Treatment.
(616) 431-4310 View (616) 431-4310
Photo of Bridget Gottlieb, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Bridget Gottlieb, LMSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Whether the transition is the death or loss of a loved one, workplace or financial stress, the birth of a child, or a challenging relationship/family dynamic, we can work together to address those overwhelming feelings.
Even though transitions are a part of all of our lives, they sometimes stir up old pain or are just too overwhelming to navigate without some help. You deserve the time and support to work through it and counseling can provide that for you. I believe in a person centered, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral and strength based counseling approach. I have over 17 years of experience using these approaches working with individuals of all ages dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illnesses and transitions at all stages of life.
Whether the transition is the death or loss of a loved one, workplace or financial stress, the birth of a child, or a challenging relationship/family dynamic, we can work together to address those overwhelming feelings.
Even though transitions are a part of all of our lives, they sometimes stir up old pain or are just too overwhelming to navigate without some help. You deserve the time and support to work through it and counseling can provide that for you. I believe in a person centered, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral and strength based counseling approach. I have over 17 years of experience using these approaches working with individuals of all ages dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illnesses and transitions at all stages of life.
(616) 560-6701 View (616) 560-6701
Photo of Amanda Syverson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Amanda Syverson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I look forward to learning about you/your family's needs.
Therapy can be a great opportunity to add support for yourself and provide tools that you may not have had access to before. Making the decision to start therapy, either for yourself or for your child, can feel overwhelming. Therapy and therapists are not a one size fits all, so it's important to find the fit that is right for you and/or your family. I believe healing and change can occur, but taking a risk is required to do so. If you or your child are struggling with processing trauma history, grief/loss, parenting issues, stress management, adjustment issues, mood disorders, depression, and anxiety, you don't have to do it alone.
I look forward to learning about you/your family's needs.
Therapy can be a great opportunity to add support for yourself and provide tools that you may not have had access to before. Making the decision to start therapy, either for yourself or for your child, can feel overwhelming. Therapy and therapists are not a one size fits all, so it's important to find the fit that is right for you and/or your family. I believe healing and change can occur, but taking a risk is required to do so. If you or your child are struggling with processing trauma history, grief/loss, parenting issues, stress management, adjustment issues, mood disorders, depression, and anxiety, you don't have to do it alone.
(616) 226-9567 View (616) 226-9567
Photo of Sasha Brattain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Sasha Brattain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Having 3 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and families in inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, I have hands-on experience working with mood disorders, depression/anxiety, trauma, self-injury, family discord, adjustment stress, and crisis intervention.
Congratulations on your decision to begin outpatient therapy. Every person has a unique journey that has made them who they are today. The path to healing can be overwhelming, however, the process is life-changing. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals, families, and couples as they navigate the intricate complexities of their lives in an effort to improve life satisfaction and self-efficacy.
Having 3 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and families in inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, I have hands-on experience working with mood disorders, depression/anxiety, trauma, self-injury, family discord, adjustment stress, and crisis intervention.
Congratulations on your decision to begin outpatient therapy. Every person has a unique journey that has made them who they are today. The path to healing can be overwhelming, however, the process is life-changing. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals, families, and couples as they navigate the intricate complexities of their lives in an effort to improve life satisfaction and self-efficacy.
(616) 208-5318 View (616) 208-5318
Photo of Adrian G Dumas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Adrian G Dumas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525  (Online Only)
I have experience with adolescent issues, anxiety, biblical counseling, co-dependency, relationship concerns, depression, domestic abuse, family counseling, grief and loss, identity challenges, stress management, personal growth, self-esteem, and trauma (sexual/physical/emotional).
My name is Adrian Dumas and I’m the founder of Helping Hands Counseling Services. I applaud you for taking the steps toward looking for a therapist who can best work with you. As a licensed professional counselor my goal is to provide a safe environment where you can explore possibilities of change in life and relationships. In private practice I provide counseling services that afford me the joy of working with an ethnically diverse community of adolescents, adults, and couples on various life issues. I strive to focus on personal wellness for the individual and/or their family, helping them lead fulfilling and healthy lives.
I have experience with adolescent issues, anxiety, biblical counseling, co-dependency, relationship concerns, depression, domestic abuse, family counseling, grief and loss, identity challenges, stress management, personal growth, self-esteem, and trauma (sexual/physical/emotional).
My name is Adrian Dumas and I’m the founder of Helping Hands Counseling Services. I applaud you for taking the steps toward looking for a therapist who can best work with you. As a licensed professional counselor my goal is to provide a safe environment where you can explore possibilities of change in life and relationships. In private practice I provide counseling services that afford me the joy of working with an ethnically diverse community of adolescents, adults, and couples on various life issues. I strive to focus on personal wellness for the individual and/or their family, helping them lead fulfilling and healthy lives.
(616) 379-6580 View (616) 379-6580
Photo of Disclosures, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Disclosures
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
We know it is often hard to figure out how to determine what type of Therapy is needed for you and your family. We are here to assist you in every step of the way, making sure that you are getting the personable service that benefits you individually. Our focus is always on our client(s) needs and HEALING. We are here to provide you with HOPE, and the tools needed to reach your goals so that you can live a productive life.
We know it is often hard to figure out how to determine what type of Therapy is needed for you and your family. We are here to assist you in every step of the way, making sure that you are getting the personable service that benefits you individually. Our focus is always on our client(s) needs and HEALING. We are here to provide you with HOPE, and the tools needed to reach your goals so that you can live a productive life.
(616) 319-2025 View (616) 319-2025
Photo of Kayla Pacic, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Kayla Pacic
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults navigating through depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues, grief and loss, and relationship/family issues.
Considering therapy? Welcome! Stepping into therapy can feel overwhelming and intimidating at the beginning. As a counselor, it is my hope is to create a space where you feel embraced, safe and can express yourself freely without fear or judgment. My aim is to walk with you through your story to help restore balance to your life. In doing so, we can work to build an understanding of how present and past events, emotional experiences, and relationships have shaped your life.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults navigating through depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem issues, grief and loss, and relationship/family issues.
Considering therapy? Welcome! Stepping into therapy can feel overwhelming and intimidating at the beginning. As a counselor, it is my hope is to create a space where you feel embraced, safe and can express yourself freely without fear or judgment. My aim is to walk with you through your story to help restore balance to your life. In doing so, we can work to build an understanding of how present and past events, emotional experiences, and relationships have shaped your life.
(616) 512-2522 View (616) 512-2522
Photo of Joe Horak, Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Joe Horak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I like to the heart of the matter quickly and then work with my clients to co-creative solutions tailored to their specific needs. My clients describe being in therapy with me as being involved in 'deeper work.' The deeper work may be related to the past, but it also could be doing a deeper dive into your current life and finding healthier ways to cope. I am trained in leadership assessment and coaching and I consult with family-owned businesses.
I like to the heart of the matter quickly and then work with my clients to co-creative solutions tailored to their specific needs. My clients describe being in therapy with me as being involved in 'deeper work.' The deeper work may be related to the past, but it also could be doing a deeper dive into your current life and finding healthier ways to cope. I am trained in leadership assessment and coaching and I consult with family-owned businesses.
(616) 523-3796 View (616) 523-3796
Photo of Begin Anew Counseling, LLC & Kodde Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Begin Anew Counseling, LLC & Kodde Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I provide counseling to all ages - family, dating, premarital, marriage, affair recovery (Gottman Methods Couples Training - Levels I-III completed), relationship problems, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, infertility, miscarriage, pre and post adoption adjustments, codependency, college issues, ADHD, abuse issues, and trauma care.
Are you struggling, confused, depressed, or anxious about your circumstances and relationships? Life is complicated and I am committed to truly hear you in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am a skilled, caring, compassionate, counselor who will give you exceptional care, offer solution-based, holistic treatment that gives hope for change, and uses carefully selected therapy to best meet your unique needs.
I provide counseling to all ages - family, dating, premarital, marriage, affair recovery (Gottman Methods Couples Training - Levels I-III completed), relationship problems, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, infertility, miscarriage, pre and post adoption adjustments, codependency, college issues, ADHD, abuse issues, and trauma care.
Are you struggling, confused, depressed, or anxious about your circumstances and relationships? Life is complicated and I am committed to truly hear you in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am a skilled, caring, compassionate, counselor who will give you exceptional care, offer solution-based, holistic treatment that gives hope for change, and uses carefully selected therapy to best meet your unique needs.
(616) 426-6577 View (616) 426-6577
Photo of Sollars and Associates, Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Sollars and Associates
Psychologist, LP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Individual, couple and family therapy is available.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and the Clinical Director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. Our group is trained in dealing with a variety of issues including: Attention Deficit Disorder, School Difficulties, Interpersonal Issues such as bullying, adult ADD and related issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Parenting, Educational Concerns, Relationship Concerns, Career and Work Issues, and Sexual Issues.
Individual, couple and family therapy is available.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and the Clinical Director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. Our group is trained in dealing with a variety of issues including: Attention Deficit Disorder, School Difficulties, Interpersonal Issues such as bullying, adult ADD and related issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Parenting, Educational Concerns, Relationship Concerns, Career and Work Issues, and Sexual Issues.
(248) 862-1171 View (248) 862-1171
Photo of Lynn Jackson, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Lynn Jackson
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Within the family court system, I have provided case management, assessments, therapy, and recommendations pertaining to treatment needs and parenting issues.
My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for children and adults, in order for them to process individual difficulties, devise a plan of action, and facilitate emotional health and well-being. My client base includes those experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, sexual and physical abuse, parenting difficulties, relationship issues, and family discord. I view myself as a coach to help identify strengths, determine what might be hindering progress, and pave the way for moving forward.
Within the family court system, I have provided case management, assessments, therapy, and recommendations pertaining to treatment needs and parenting issues.
My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for children and adults, in order for them to process individual difficulties, devise a plan of action, and facilitate emotional health and well-being. My client base includes those experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, sexual and physical abuse, parenting difficulties, relationship issues, and family discord. I view myself as a coach to help identify strengths, determine what might be hindering progress, and pave the way for moving forward.
(616) 208-4517 View (616) 208-4517
Photo of Ann Maring, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Ann Maring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Life can be challenging. Sometimes the obstacles you face are relatively simple and you can work through them on your own, while other times they are more than you feel equipped to manage alone. I believe this is exactly what therapy is intended for. Whether you’re facing a normal life adjustment such as a new child, a new job, navigating the break-up of a relationship, or significant conflict within your family, I am here to help you process through your experience. I strive to create a space of mutual respect, trust, and awareness where you can begin the work of restoration.
Life can be challenging. Sometimes the obstacles you face are relatively simple and you can work through them on your own, while other times they are more than you feel equipped to manage alone. I believe this is exactly what therapy is intended for. Whether you’re facing a normal life adjustment such as a new child, a new job, navigating the break-up of a relationship, or significant conflict within your family, I am here to help you process through your experience. I strive to create a space of mutual respect, trust, and awareness where you can begin the work of restoration.
(616) 427-1812 View (616) 427-1812
Photo of Christina McPike, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Christina McPike
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
If your child is struggling to cope with life changes, family dynamics, emotional dysregulation, trauma, experiences with the child welfare system, adoption, or other challenges, Christina can help navigate those feelings and experiences and offer a path forward.
Christina specializes in creating safe spaces for children, adolescents, teens, and families to explore their emotions and experiences in order to facilitate a harmonious family system. With over a decade of experience both locally and internationally in the fields of mental health, trauma recovery, and education, Christina utilizes an eclectic therapeutic approach that is uniquely tailored to meet the family’s needs. Christina believes that the relationship between the client and the therapist is the cornerstone of progress and she values those relationships deeply.
If your child is struggling to cope with life changes, family dynamics, emotional dysregulation, trauma, experiences with the child welfare system, adoption, or other challenges, Christina can help navigate those feelings and experiences and offer a path forward.
Christina specializes in creating safe spaces for children, adolescents, teens, and families to explore their emotions and experiences in order to facilitate a harmonious family system. With over a decade of experience both locally and internationally in the fields of mental health, trauma recovery, and education, Christina utilizes an eclectic therapeutic approach that is uniquely tailored to meet the family’s needs. Christina believes that the relationship between the client and the therapist is the cornerstone of progress and she values those relationships deeply.
(616) 947-3424 View (616) 947-3424
Photo of Samantha Strachan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Samantha Strachan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
With the ease and flexibility of teletherapy, join me from the comfort of your own home on our therapy journey together! The courage it takes to acknowledge the impact of life stressors on your confidence and emotional wellbeing can feel monumental. The expectation to navigate individual, family and life transitions without a supportive guide can feel crippling especially while struggling to find healthy ways of thinking and problem solving. Together we can work on: Improving mental health - Increasing self-awareness and self-esteem - Enhancing interpersonal relationships - Increase resilience & ability to manage life's challenges
With the ease and flexibility of teletherapy, join me from the comfort of your own home on our therapy journey together! The courage it takes to acknowledge the impact of life stressors on your confidence and emotional wellbeing can feel monumental. The expectation to navigate individual, family and life transitions without a supportive guide can feel crippling especially while struggling to find healthy ways of thinking and problem solving. Together we can work on: Improving mental health - Increasing self-awareness and self-esteem - Enhancing interpersonal relationships - Increase resilience & ability to manage life's challenges
(616) 557-6850 View (616) 557-6850
Photo of Melanie Tramper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Melanie Tramper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I specialize in assisting adults and children who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life changes, and family problems.
Depression and anxiety can feel like a heavy fog that won't lift. I am here to walk with you through the fog, helping you to find clarity and relief from emotional pain. I offer a safe and supportive therapeutic environment that respects your emotional journey, helps you to feel more authentically yourself, and releases you from the fog of depression and anxiety.
I specialize in assisting adults and children who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life changes, and family problems.
Depression and anxiety can feel like a heavy fog that won't lift. I am here to walk with you through the fog, helping you to find clarity and relief from emotional pain. I offer a safe and supportive therapeutic environment that respects your emotional journey, helps you to feel more authentically yourself, and releases you from the fog of depression and anxiety.
(616) 303-7524 View (616) 303-7524
Photo of Renee Rose, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Renee Rose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I am a Registered Art Therapist, Perinatal Mental Health Certified and TF-CBT trained; foundations in trauma, attachment (2 years in Infant Mental Health) and family therapy (8 years).
A few daytime openings are available! It's so hard on our bodies and minds to be pregnant, give birth or endure loss yet we're expected to carry on with our lives like usual. People that haven't experienced the physical complications and distressing symptoms can't relate. Talking about our "stuff" is uncomfortable because we often feel shame or guilt as we think we should be grateful or we're not feeling good enough. Pregnancy and postpartum is unlike any other journey; sharing our bodies with another human is hard, being a new mom is hard, loss/change is hard! Remember, you are not alone and with help you can be well.
I am a Registered Art Therapist, Perinatal Mental Health Certified and TF-CBT trained; foundations in trauma, attachment (2 years in Infant Mental Health) and family therapy (8 years).
A few daytime openings are available! It's so hard on our bodies and minds to be pregnant, give birth or endure loss yet we're expected to carry on with our lives like usual. People that haven't experienced the physical complications and distressing symptoms can't relate. Talking about our "stuff" is uncomfortable because we often feel shame or guilt as we think we should be grateful or we're not feeling good enough. Pregnancy and postpartum is unlike any other journey; sharing our bodies with another human is hard, being a new mom is hard, loss/change is hard! Remember, you are not alone and with help you can be well.
(616) 213-0899 View (616) 213-0899

See more therapy options for Grand Rapids

Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.