Secular and Non-Religious Therapists in Allegan County, MI
Life is constantly changing and challenging. At times, it can feel difficult to keep up. As a counselor, my goal is to help you identify ways you can tap into your strengths to better navigate these challenges. My hope is to help empower you to create lasting, meaningful change in your life. I have experience working in inpatient settings, in the child welfare/foster care system, as well as in substance use treatment centers. I am also certified as a supervisor for LLPC therapists in the state of Michigan
Life is constantly changing and challenging. At times, it can feel difficult to keep up. As a counselor, my goal is to help you identify ways you can tap into your strengths to better navigate these challenges. My hope is to help empower you to create lasting, meaningful change in your life. I have experience working in inpatient settings, in the child welfare/foster care system, as well as in substance use treatment centers. I am also certified as a supervisor for LLPC therapists in the state of Michigan
Life is like a ball of yarn. It starts wrapped up nicely in a neat fashion. As time goes on it becomes tangled, knotted, and difficult to unravel. My goal as a therapist is to help you unravel those difficult emotions and encourage you when it seems like the knot will never come undone. I use body work, mindfulness, and person-centered approaches in my practice. During sessions we may sit on the floor, move our bodies, grab a cozy blanket or have a warm cup of tea. My goal is to help you find a place of peace in life.
Life is like a ball of yarn. It starts wrapped up nicely in a neat fashion. As time goes on it becomes tangled, knotted, and difficult to unravel. My goal as a therapist is to help you unravel those difficult emotions and encourage you when it seems like the knot will never come undone. I use body work, mindfulness, and person-centered approaches in my practice. During sessions we may sit on the floor, move our bodies, grab a cozy blanket or have a warm cup of tea. My goal is to help you find a place of peace in life.
I enjoy working with clients who are up for a little work and challenge. I have a strong belief in the idea that therapy isn't something that is done to us, but rather something we must take an active role in to see any true progress. I view therapy as another way to add more tools to our toolbox in an effort to better ourselves. My goal is that by working together, you will learn things in a manner that allows you to function at your best regardless of what life throws at you.
I enjoy working with clients who are up for a little work and challenge. I have a strong belief in the idea that therapy isn't something that is done to us, but rather something we must take an active role in to see any true progress. I view therapy as another way to add more tools to our toolbox in an effort to better ourselves. My goal is that by working together, you will learn things in a manner that allows you to function at your best regardless of what life throws at you.
Most people know that time in nature and exercise are crucial for our well-being, but a lot of us struggle to find the time and motivation to make it a priority. What if you could do therapy outside in nature and get some exercise all at the same time? You might even learn a thing or two about some plants and animals! If that sounds like an ideal way to spend an hour a week, let's chat!
Most people know that time in nature and exercise are crucial for our well-being, but a lot of us struggle to find the time and motivation to make it a priority. What if you could do therapy outside in nature and get some exercise all at the same time? You might even learn a thing or two about some plants and animals! If that sounds like an ideal way to spend an hour a week, let's chat!
Hi there! I'm delighted you've discovered me on your quest for a therapist. As an experienced practitioner specializing in trauma-focused therapy, particularly with children and families, my mission is to provide a safe space for healing and growth. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the intricate connections between past experience and present struggles. Through a trauma-informed lens, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery, helping them unravel the complexities of their emotions and behaviors. Through my tailored therapy sessions, clients will be met with compassion and validation. Welcome!
Hi there! I'm delighted you've discovered me on your quest for a therapist. As an experienced practitioner specializing in trauma-focused therapy, particularly with children and families, my mission is to provide a safe space for healing and growth. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the intricate connections between past experience and present struggles. Through a trauma-informed lens, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery, helping them unravel the complexities of their emotions and behaviors. Through my tailored therapy sessions, clients will be met with compassion and validation. Welcome!
If you are a highly sensitive woman or empath who struggle to find balance and peace in your life, let's talk.
Being Highly Sensitive or an empath can be a great asset in life AND the trait can also leave us anxious, easily traumatized and depressed.
Being a highly sensitive woman myself and having counseled hundreds of sensitives and empaths over decades in private practice, I feel confident that I can help you thrive and find your peace.
If you are a highly sensitive woman or empath who struggle to find balance and peace in your life, let's talk.
Being Highly Sensitive or an empath can be a great asset in life AND the trait can also leave us anxious, easily traumatized and depressed.
Being a highly sensitive woman myself and having counseled hundreds of sensitives and empaths over decades in private practice, I feel confident that I can help you thrive and find your peace.
Life is a rich tapestry of pain and beauty, suffering and joy. If you’re feeling hopeless, fearful, lonely or just plain "stuck" - you’re not alone. I’ve walked this path myself and deeply understand the challenges life can bring. With over 20 years of dedicated experience supporting youth, women, and the LGBTQIA+ community across three continents, I’ve learned one profound truth: no matter the struggle, hope is always within reach. If you’ve lost sight of it, I will help you find it. Together, we’ll face challenges head-on, cultivate resilience, and embrace the beauty and possibilities life has to offer. Let's do this!
Life is a rich tapestry of pain and beauty, suffering and joy. If you’re feeling hopeless, fearful, lonely or just plain "stuck" - you’re not alone. I’ve walked this path myself and deeply understand the challenges life can bring. With over 20 years of dedicated experience supporting youth, women, and the LGBTQIA+ community across three continents, I’ve learned one profound truth: no matter the struggle, hope is always within reach. If you’ve lost sight of it, I will help you find it. Together, we’ll face challenges head-on, cultivate resilience, and embrace the beauty and possibilities life has to offer. Let's do this!
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.
Are you feeling like it's time to better understand what your unsettling feelings are trying to tell you? It could be that these have been present since you were young, or maybe it's an entirely new experience. In either case, I'm glad you found your way here. You deserve to enjoy your days and I will work with you to help you manage any fear or worry by getting to the heart of what is leading you to feel a lack of calm confidence. Maybe you already know the source but simply need to talk about it so that it doesn't have as much control over you. Either way, it's time for a new approach to dealing with this!
Are you feeling like it's time to better understand what your unsettling feelings are trying to tell you? It could be that these have been present since you were young, or maybe it's an entirely new experience. In either case, I'm glad you found your way here. You deserve to enjoy your days and I will work with you to help you manage any fear or worry by getting to the heart of what is leading you to feel a lack of calm confidence. Maybe you already know the source but simply need to talk about it so that it doesn't have as much control over you. Either way, it's time for a new approach to dealing with this!
After life throws you a curveball, the first step can be the hardest part. If you struggle with depression, anxiety or can't quite figure out how to navigate life's curveballs, I am here to help. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression and trauma of all types. I also have experience working with sexual betrayal, adolescents, couples counseling, domestic abuse and sexual assault for both victims and offenders. Whether you or someone close to you is struggling, please know that you are not alone.
After life throws you a curveball, the first step can be the hardest part. If you struggle with depression, anxiety or can't quite figure out how to navigate life's curveballs, I am here to help. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression and trauma of all types. I also have experience working with sexual betrayal, adolescents, couples counseling, domestic abuse and sexual assault for both victims and offenders. Whether you or someone close to you is struggling, please know that you are not alone.
Kristen Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, ADS, EMDR T, CFNC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
My ideal client faces anxiety, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, relationship struggles, perfectionism, self-esteem issues, life transitions, co-dependency, and self-sabotage concerns. They seek stability, calmness, independence, and control over their lives. This client wants a no-BS approach that’s refreshing and clear. With my interactive style, they’re engaged in active, two-way conversations that cut through vague advice and focus on tangible change. Ready to confront their challenges, they value practical, realistic strategies, aiming to feel grounded, resilient, and empowered in their daily lives.
My ideal client faces anxiety, PTSD, trauma, eating disorders, relationship struggles, perfectionism, self-esteem issues, life transitions, co-dependency, and self-sabotage concerns. They seek stability, calmness, independence, and control over their lives. This client wants a no-BS approach that’s refreshing and clear. With my interactive style, they’re engaged in active, two-way conversations that cut through vague advice and focus on tangible change. Ready to confront their challenges, they value practical, realistic strategies, aiming to feel grounded, resilient, and empowered in their daily lives.
Online Therapists
I work with young children and families who are facing challenges with anxiety, self-esteem, disruptive behaviors, emotional outbursts, life changes and trauma. I utilize a combination of play and talk therapy to empower young children and families to reach their unique goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your child's behavior, or wish to increase positive interactions with your child? During parent coaching sessions, you will learn how to manage challenging behaviors while simultaneously enhancing warmth and connection with your child. My client-centered approach will ensure that you feel supported every step of the way!
I work with young children and families who are facing challenges with anxiety, self-esteem, disruptive behaviors, emotional outbursts, life changes and trauma. I utilize a combination of play and talk therapy to empower young children and families to reach their unique goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your child's behavior, or wish to increase positive interactions with your child? During parent coaching sessions, you will learn how to manage challenging behaviors while simultaneously enhancing warmth and connection with your child. My client-centered approach will ensure that you feel supported every step of the way!
My name is Ashley Nederveld, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based outside of Grand Rapids, Michigan. I work with clients via telehealth throughout the state of Michigan. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress. I have found that my approach works well with individuals who are experiencing stress due to a period of life transitions. This may include going off to college, welcoming a new baby, job/career changes, setting boundaries, or retirement adjustments.
My name is Ashley Nederveld, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based outside of Grand Rapids, Michigan. I work with clients via telehealth throughout the state of Michigan. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress. I have found that my approach works well with individuals who are experiencing stress due to a period of life transitions. This may include going off to college, welcoming a new baby, job/career changes, setting boundaries, or retirement adjustments.
It is my personal and professional belief that everyone is capable of discovering their most authentic and successful self, but may occasionally need assistance in their journey to personal enrichment. I have been lucky enough to find those people in my own life, and I consider it an honor to serve that purpose for my clients in a warm, welcoming, yet professional fashion. I respect the individual needs of varying cultural backgrounds, and enjoy finding common ground with varying clientele.
It is my personal and professional belief that everyone is capable of discovering their most authentic and successful self, but may occasionally need assistance in their journey to personal enrichment. I have been lucky enough to find those people in my own life, and I consider it an honor to serve that purpose for my clients in a warm, welcoming, yet professional fashion. I respect the individual needs of varying cultural backgrounds, and enjoy finding common ground with varying clientele.
Heartstone Guidance Center is a group of neurodivergent therapists offering neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQIA-affirming, and culturally aware therapy services. We have autistic, ADHD, and otherwise neurodivergent therapists who offer authenticity and a space where you will be seen, heard, and respected as the authority and expert in your life. We are the alternative to the world that tells you that you need to be neurotypical or normal to fit in and be accepted. We offer therapy to help you understand and embrace your true identity, find compassion for yourself, and develop coping strategies for living in a stressful world.
Heartstone Guidance Center is a group of neurodivergent therapists offering neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQIA-affirming, and culturally aware therapy services. We have autistic, ADHD, and otherwise neurodivergent therapists who offer authenticity and a space where you will be seen, heard, and respected as the authority and expert in your life. We are the alternative to the world that tells you that you need to be neurotypical or normal to fit in and be accepted. We offer therapy to help you understand and embrace your true identity, find compassion for yourself, and develop coping strategies for living in a stressful world.
Ana M Tester
Master Social Worker, LMSW, CCTP-I
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! If you're struggling to navigate the complexities of complex trauma, ADHD, anxiety that just won’t quit, relationship chaos, or a constant undercurrent of “not enough-ness,” you’re not alone. I work with women and all LGBTQ+ folks who are tired of shrinking themselves and ready to unpack the patterns that are no longer serving them. Whether you’re grappling with the effects of infidelity, tired of your "attachment style", stuck in a loop of self-doubt, or reeling from the current political climate, therapy can help you shift into a more grounded, authentic version of yourself. - I'm also a member of the LGBTQ+ community. -
Hello! If you're struggling to navigate the complexities of complex trauma, ADHD, anxiety that just won’t quit, relationship chaos, or a constant undercurrent of “not enough-ness,” you’re not alone. I work with women and all LGBTQ+ folks who are tired of shrinking themselves and ready to unpack the patterns that are no longer serving them. Whether you’re grappling with the effects of infidelity, tired of your "attachment style", stuck in a loop of self-doubt, or reeling from the current political climate, therapy can help you shift into a more grounded, authentic version of yourself. - I'm also a member of the LGBTQ+ community. -
Anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or past trauma can make you feel stuck, unsure how to move forward. You just want relief—to feel like yourself again, with a sense of peace, clarity, and control. For the past five years, I’ve helped people work through anxiety, trauma, OCD, and phobias in a supportive, judgment-free space. I’ll meet you where you are, help you untangle what’s holding you back, and guide you toward lasting change. You don’t have to figure this out alone—let’s take that next step together and move toward the life you deserve, with the support, tools, and strategies to help you thrive.
Anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or past trauma can make you feel stuck, unsure how to move forward. You just want relief—to feel like yourself again, with a sense of peace, clarity, and control. For the past five years, I’ve helped people work through anxiety, trauma, OCD, and phobias in a supportive, judgment-free space. I’ll meet you where you are, help you untangle what’s holding you back, and guide you toward lasting change. You don’t have to figure this out alone—let’s take that next step together and move toward the life you deserve, with the support, tools, and strategies to help you thrive.
Are you and your partner stuck in a frustrating cycle of dealing with the same problems on repeat? Does blame and defensiveness get in the way of talking out your differences? Over time, unresolved issues can put major distance between you, stifle the passion, and leave you both feeling alone, despite longing for deeper connection. You may even start to avoid certain conversations altogether or walk on eggshells so you don't upset each other. When this happens, it seems like you two aren't on the same team - and that's a devastating feeling when you love someone so much and just want to find a way through.
Are you and your partner stuck in a frustrating cycle of dealing with the same problems on repeat? Does blame and defensiveness get in the way of talking out your differences? Over time, unresolved issues can put major distance between you, stifle the passion, and leave you both feeling alone, despite longing for deeper connection. You may even start to avoid certain conversations altogether or walk on eggshells so you don't upset each other. When this happens, it seems like you two aren't on the same team - and that's a devastating feeling when you love someone so much and just want to find a way through.
We all carry stories, experiences, and beliefs that shape how we move through the world. Sometimes, what we carry becomes too heavy—and that’s where therapy can help. I work with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, ADHD, faith deconstruction, and other life challenges. My approach is warm, relational, and grounded in curiosity. I aim to create a space that feels safe, non-judgmental, and empowering, where you can reconnect with your strengths and move toward lasting change. Whether you’re processing trauma, exploring identity, or seeking deeper connection, I offer a collaborative and compassionate space to support your growth.
We all carry stories, experiences, and beliefs that shape how we move through the world. Sometimes, what we carry becomes too heavy—and that’s where therapy can help. I work with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, ADHD, faith deconstruction, and other life challenges. My approach is warm, relational, and grounded in curiosity. I aim to create a space that feels safe, non-judgmental, and empowering, where you can reconnect with your strengths and move toward lasting change. Whether you’re processing trauma, exploring identity, or seeking deeper connection, I offer a collaborative and compassionate space to support your growth.
I am a mature, older woman with a lifetime of experience that I draw on in my practice. I am an empathic, respectful, and careful listener. I also am a very active collaborator in the therapeutic process, sharing my insights when I think they will be helpful. I work eclectically, utilizing approaches to therapy that are trauma-informed, integrative, and experiential. I am trained in many different modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am a mature, older woman with a lifetime of experience that I draw on in my practice. I am an empathic, respectful, and careful listener. I also am a very active collaborator in the therapeutic process, sharing my insights when I think they will be helpful. I work eclectically, utilizing approaches to therapy that are trauma-informed, integrative, and experiential. I am trained in many different modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR).
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Secular and Non-Religious Therapists
What is a secular and non religious approach in therapy?
Secular or non-religious therapy is a theoretical orientation used by many therapists and describes a therapeutic approach that does not rely on any specific religious or faith-based beliefs in the therapeutic process. Secular counselors will often approach therapy with an emphasis on evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients, instead of relying on religious practices, such as prayer or belief in God.
Is secular therapy primarily for non-religious people?
Both religious and non-religious individuals can benefit from secular therapy. People exploring their religious or spiritual beliefs may find it especially useful to work with a secular therapist who is unbiased toward any specific religion. While religious individuals might value the connection and familiarity of seeing a counselor who shares their beliefs, secular counseling can offer them the chance to develop coping skills independent of their religious practice, which can be beneficial in various aspects of their lives.
Can a secular approach to therapy help with religious trauma?
One major reason clients may seek a secular therapist is to process previous religious experiences, including religious trauma. Secular therapists can help clients manage symptoms of the trauma through practices such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). They can also encourage clients through talk therapy or psychodynamic approaches to explore the roots of their religious trauma. Since secular therapists do not have any predetermined religious beliefs, they can be particularly helpful for clients looking to explore their own religious beliefs following a history of religious trauma.
What does non religious marriage and premarital counseling involve?
Marriage and premarital counseling typically involves a couple meeting with a therapist to discuss topics such as planning for marriage, navigating a new marriage, addressing relationship challenges, and developing better communication and conflict resolution skills. Non-religious therapists assist couples in achieving these goals without adhering to specific religious beliefs or frameworks, often emphasizing inclusivity and non-judgment, especially for "nontraditional" couples. However, seeking couples therapy from a non-religious counselor does not mean religious topics are off-limits. In fact, non-religious couples from different religious backgrounds may benefit from a secular therapist who remains neutral toward the beliefs of each partner.