Photo of Melanie Freeland, Counselor
Melanie Freeland
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
The deepest goal of counseling is learning about yourself by teaching me about you. This idea can be daunting. You might be asking yourself, “What will I learn? Am I ready? What will this journey be like?” Sometimes starting the process is the hardest part! The beauty of counseling is that the journey doesn’t have to be taken alone. When you find a therapist that fits well, it can feel less like stumbling through a dark forest and more like forging a path of your own. No matter what brings you to therapy, feeling empowered, safe, and understood through the process can make all the difference in the world.
The deepest goal of counseling is learning about yourself by teaching me about you. This idea can be daunting. You might be asking yourself, “What will I learn? Am I ready? What will this journey be like?” Sometimes starting the process is the hardest part! The beauty of counseling is that the journey doesn’t have to be taken alone. When you find a therapist that fits well, it can feel less like stumbling through a dark forest and more like forging a path of your own. No matter what brings you to therapy, feeling empowered, safe, and understood through the process can make all the difference in the world.
(616) 737-0939 View (616) 737-0939
Photo of Amanda Haveman, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Haveman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
I aim to create a safe, supportive, empathic, and validating environment for the clients I have the pleasure of working with. For over 15 years, I have provided attachment and trauma informed services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience supporting clients that struggle with a variety of issues including substance abuse, anxiety, depression, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, eating disorders, ADHD, and emotional regulation issues. I am honored to walk alongside you with compassion and open mindedness as you navigate the ebbs and flows of life.
I aim to create a safe, supportive, empathic, and validating environment for the clients I have the pleasure of working with. For over 15 years, I have provided attachment and trauma informed services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience supporting clients that struggle with a variety of issues including substance abuse, anxiety, depression, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, eating disorders, ADHD, and emotional regulation issues. I am honored to walk alongside you with compassion and open mindedness as you navigate the ebbs and flows of life.
(616) 344-5853 View (616) 344-5853
Photo of Miranda Ward, LMFT, LLPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miranda Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
All evening times filled currently but accepting daytime appointments. I am honored to support couples, families and individuals who want to begin to explore difficulties within their relationships. I offer a relational space that focuses on feeling safe and understood. My approach is from a family systems lens with somatic influences. My specialty is relationship repair through emotional exploration. My ideal client includes family and couple relationships, sexual intimacy, non-traditional families, addiction, high conflict, the family court system, play therapy, and more.
All evening times filled currently but accepting daytime appointments. I am honored to support couples, families and individuals who want to begin to explore difficulties within their relationships. I offer a relational space that focuses on feeling safe and understood. My approach is from a family systems lens with somatic influences. My specialty is relationship repair through emotional exploration. My ideal client includes 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 Megan Besemer, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Besemer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I enjoy meeting clients' needs by starting therapy where they are comfortable, and forming a supportive relationship. Offering a safe space for diversity and equality I offer suggestions, education, and healthy perspectives in order to help facilitate growth. Helping to empower individuals I use specialized treatment methods, which include verbal processing, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and writing and drawing methods. Whether someone is looking for guidance moving through a new stage of life, or finding courage to work through a history of trauma, my ideal client is someone who is open to feedback and ready to create change.
I enjoy meeting clients' needs by starting therapy where they are comfortable, and forming a supportive relationship. Offering a safe space for diversity and equality I offer suggestions, education, and healthy perspectives in order to help facilitate growth. Helping to empower individuals I use specialized treatment methods, which include verbal processing, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and writing and drawing methods. Whether someone is looking for guidance moving through a new stage of life, or finding courage to work through a history of trauma, my ideal client is someone who is open to feedback and ready to create change.
(616) 504-4963 View (616) 504-4963
Photo of Kimberly Sue Lichon-Tufer, MSW, LCSW, SSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Sue Lichon-Tufer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
My passion is helping others find ways to manage their challenges in this ever-changing journey we call life. For over 27 years I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of settings; including home, school, office, and in the community. I pride myself in building therapeutic relationships with each individual I work with. By achieving this, I believe we can then work together to help identify what is challenging you currently to get you to the life you choose to live successfully.
My passion is helping others find ways to manage their challenges in this ever-changing journey we call life. For over 27 years I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of settings; including home, school, office, and in the community. I pride myself in building therapeutic relationships with each individual I work with. By achieving this, I believe we can then work together to help identify what is challenging you currently to get you to the life you choose to live successfully.
(616) 201-3474 View (616) 201-3474
Photo of Amy Lynn Ver Wey, MA, LLP, RPT, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Amy Lynn Ver Wey
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
Amy (she/her) practices an active and interpersonal approach to therapy, incorporating mindfulness, popular culture, art, music, role playing games and technological aspects to modify her treatment on an individualized basis to best meet the needs of her clients. Amy identifies as a queer therapist and strives to create a genuinely warm and inclusive therapeutic environment based upon empathy, resiliency and a relatable atmosphere to help normalize mental health services.
Amy (she/her) practices an active and interpersonal approach to therapy, incorporating mindfulness, popular culture, art, music, role playing games and technological aspects to modify her treatment on an individualized basis to best meet the needs of her clients. Amy identifies as a queer therapist and strives to create a genuinely warm and inclusive therapeutic environment based upon empathy, resiliency and a relatable atmosphere to help normalize mental health services.
(219) 979-6696 View (219) 979-6696
Photo of Kristina Thompson, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Kristina Thompson
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate transitions and struggles in their daily lives. I utilize aspects of play therapy, as well as creative and active interventions, and believe that a trusting relationship between the client and therapist is at the center of effective therapy. I am passionate about partnering with children and their families, ensuring that feel respected and supported. In my practice, I work with clients from a variety of different backgrounds and adjust my therapeutic approach to fit each person’s particular needs and developmental level.
I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate transitions and struggles in their daily lives. I utilize aspects of play therapy, as well as creative and active interventions, and believe that a trusting relationship between the client and therapist is at the center of effective therapy. I am passionate about partnering with children and their families, ensuring that feel respected and supported. In my practice, I work with clients from a variety of different backgrounds and adjust my therapeutic approach to fit each person’s particular needs and developmental level.
(616) 229-3809 View (616) 229-3809
Photo of Melanie Wiersma, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Wiersma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
It is a tremendous step to begin therapy or seek a new therapist. In your healing journey my intention is to create a space for safety so that you do not have to walk alone. I am a firm believer that each individual is the expert in their own life, therefore I hold in high honor the tenderness in walking alongside clients in sensitive emotions, relationships, and traumas.
It is a tremendous step to begin therapy or seek a new therapist. In your healing journey my intention is to create a space for safety so that you do not have to walk alone. I am a firm believer that each individual is the expert in their own life, therefore I hold in high honor the tenderness in walking alongside clients in sensitive emotions, relationships, and traumas.
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Photo of Meghan Burrows - 616 Center for Counseling & Behavioral Health, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
616 Center for Counseling & Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Practicing since 2005, I work with children and teens, families and individuals and specialize in trauma, attachment, behavioral issues, children's mental health, relationship issues and transitions with the family life cycle. I assess clients and their presenting concerns with a welcoming, non-judgmental , solution-focused approach. My client-centered manner empowers the individual to realize strengths and assets available to them and how to compensate for and overcome identified barriers.
Practicing since 2005, I work with children and teens, families and individuals and specialize in trauma, attachment, behavioral issues, children's mental health, relationship issues and transitions with the family life cycle. I assess clients and their presenting concerns with a welcoming, non-judgmental , solution-focused approach. My client-centered manner empowers the individual to realize strengths and assets available to them and how to compensate for and overcome identified barriers.
(616) 984-1021 View (616) 984-1021
Photo of Lori Lee VanHarmelen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Lee VanHarmelen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Searching for answers? Feeling lost or confused? I provide a welcoming space that allows you to work with a licensed therapist as you find direction & security in your life. If you are struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression, grief or other overwhelming event(s) in your life, I would like to help you. Despite the temptation to believe otherwise, there IS hope & healing for you. Often, it feels as if the pressures & fears in life are unending, and you are all alone. I believe otherwise. You can succeed! I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey to find wholeness, happiness, & peace.
Searching for answers? Feeling lost or confused? I provide a welcoming space that allows you to work with a licensed therapist as you find direction & security in your life. If you are struggling with past trauma, anxiety, depression, grief or other overwhelming event(s) in your life, I would like to help you. Despite the temptation to believe otherwise, there IS hope & healing for you. Often, it feels as if the pressures & fears in life are unending, and you are all alone. I believe otherwise. You can succeed! I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey to find wholeness, happiness, & peace.
(616) 512-0008 View (616) 512-0008
Photo of Shavon Coxton, LCSW
Shavon Coxton
Master Social Worker, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or relationship issues? Hi, I'm Shavon, a licensed psychotherapist and social worker who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed approaches. I offer personalized counseling to address mental illness, spiritual disconnection, and other challenges. I believe in fostering trust and accountability to help you meet your therapeutic goals. My approach is grounded in short-term, solution-focused therapy that provides practical, lasting results.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or relationship issues? Hi, I'm Shavon, a licensed psychotherapist and social worker who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed approaches. I offer personalized counseling to address mental illness, spiritual disconnection, and other challenges. I believe in fostering trust and accountability to help you meet your therapeutic goals. My approach is grounded in short-term, solution-focused therapy that provides practical, lasting results.
(313) 942-4029 View (313) 942-4029
Photo of Sarah Hayes, MA, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Do you constantly feel worried, irritated, exhausted, or like you’ve lost yourself a bit? Maybe you are struggling with a difficult pregnancy, or with raising little ones? Perhaps you’re just feeling overwhelmed in general, doing all you can to get by each day. Certain seasons of life can be hard! I promise you don’t have to go through it alone. Your mental health matters, and you deserve a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported. While working together we can talk about life changes, coping with stress, improving your relationships, reconnecting with yourself, processing past trauma - whatever matters most to you!
Do you constantly feel worried, irritated, exhausted, or like you’ve lost yourself a bit? Maybe you are struggling with a difficult pregnancy, or with raising little ones? Perhaps you’re just feeling overwhelmed in general, doing all you can to get by each day. Certain seasons of life can be hard! I promise you don’t have to go through it alone. Your mental health matters, and you deserve a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported. While working together we can talk about life changes, coping with stress, improving your relationships, reconnecting with yourself, processing past trauma - whatever matters most to you!
(269) 215-2775 View (269) 215-2775
Photo of Kathryn Padron, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Padron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Not accepting new clients
I primarily work with women and children. I specialize in anxiety, attachment and trauma (Complex-PTSD and PTSD), depression, and mood disorders. I have training in multiple modalities and my style is warm and relationship based. I work with children five and up and consult for the very young (0-5). Supporting children overcome and manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and other challenges is such meaningful work. I have worked for 20 years with women, families and children.
I primarily work with women and children. I specialize in anxiety, attachment and trauma (Complex-PTSD and PTSD), depression, and mood disorders. I have training in multiple modalities and my style is warm and relationship based. I work with children five and up and consult for the very young (0-5). Supporting children overcome and manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and other challenges is such meaningful work. I have worked for 20 years with women, families and children.
(616) 710-4583 View (616) 710-4583
Photo of Jolie Thomson Brown, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jolie Thomson Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Not accepting new clients
Practicing therapy since 2002, with children, adolescents, families and adults, I have been able to consistently use clinical experience to find flexible solutions even when others have burned out. With honest and direct feedback, I provide a safe and compassionate environment for clients to grow and make positive changes. I will be forthright about difficult decisions and work tirelessly to find the best, if not easiest, solutions. My consistent concern for the client, rich clinical background, high ethical standards, and willingness to tackle difficult tasks have allowed me to improve clients' emotional and behavioral stability.
Practicing therapy since 2002, with children, adolescents, families and adults, I have been able to consistently use clinical experience to find flexible solutions even when others have burned out. With honest and direct feedback, I provide a safe and compassionate environment for clients to grow and make positive changes. I will be forthright about difficult decisions and work tirelessly to find the best, if not easiest, solutions. My consistent concern for the client, rich clinical background, high ethical standards, and willingness to tackle difficult tasks have allowed me to improve clients' emotional and behavioral stability.
(616) 244-2218 View (616) 244-2218
Photo of Liz Campbell, LMSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Not accepting new clients
Hi there! I began working in human services 10 years ago and have worked extensively with survivors of sexual assault, incest, domestic violence, and child abuse. I specialize in working with individuals and children who have experienced trauma, abuse, neglect, life transitions, housing instability, anxiety, and depression. I primarily use somatic interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, yoga, play therapy, art interventions, parts work, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in sessions with my clients.
Hi there! I began working in human services 10 years ago and have worked extensively with survivors of sexual assault, incest, domestic violence, and child abuse. I specialize in working with individuals and children who have experienced trauma, abuse, neglect, life transitions, housing instability, anxiety, and depression. I primarily use somatic interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, yoga, play therapy, art interventions, parts work, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in sessions with my clients.
(616) 512-2052 View (616) 512-2052
Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.