Compassion Focused Therapists in Alpena County, MI

Photo of Gail Atkins, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gail Atkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpena, MI 49707
I create a non-judgmental and healthy space to help my clients find balance in their life and overcome past and present hardships. I work with clients to help them achieve goals that are important to them while utilizing person-centered and strength-based treatment planning.
I create a non-judgmental and healthy space to help my clients find balance in their life and overcome past and present hardships. I work with clients to help them achieve goals that are important to them while utilizing person-centered and strength-based treatment planning.
(989) 207-8941 View (989) 207-8941
Photo of Anna Krueger, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Krueger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Alpena, MI 49707
I work with a variety of age groups and genuinely enjoy the differences in all people. I create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to help my clients find balance in their life and overcome past and present hardships. I work alongside my patients, meeting them where they are while helping them achieve goals that are important to them by utilizing person-centered treatment planning. I help my patients gain emotional stability, and self-worth in their lives, while becoming empowered. I work effectively with children and their families, adolescents, and adults.
I work with a variety of age groups and genuinely enjoy the differences in all people. I create a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to help my clients find balance in their life and overcome past and present hardships. I work alongside my patients, meeting them where they are while helping them achieve goals that are important to them by utilizing person-centered treatment planning. I help my patients gain emotional stability, and self-worth in their lives, while becoming empowered. I work effectively with children and their families, adolescents, and adults.
(616) 577-8176 View (616) 577-8176
Photo of Jennifer Renee Graham, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Renee Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpena, MI 49707
Trying to navigate through changes and stress can become complicated, and it can be helpful to learn new ways of coping. Whether you are worried about depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship problems, parenting, managing grief, or any other mental health concerns or diagnosis, I can be of assistance. I provide therapy using a client-centered approach to help you understand your own individual role in your current and past situations, and help you find your way through.
Trying to navigate through changes and stress can become complicated, and it can be helpful to learn new ways of coping. Whether you are worried about depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship problems, parenting, managing grief, or any other mental health concerns or diagnosis, I can be of assistance. I provide therapy using a client-centered approach to help you understand your own individual role in your current and past situations, and help you find your way through.
(989) 342-3871 View (989) 342-3871
Photo of Becky Lenning, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becky Lenning
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpena, MI 49707  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Becky. Life’s challenges come in many forms and can feel overwhelming. Whether you are coping with the death of a loved one, pet loss, divorce or separation, job loss, illness or disability, infertility, stressful caregiver trials, or other challenges life throws in your path, you may experience difficult feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety, discouragement, loneliness, hopelessness, or fear. My mission is for you to live YOUR best life possible. I OFFER: A place where your voice will be heard and a compassionate, inclusive, & confidential space to discuss your issues & concerns.
Hi, I'm Becky. Life’s challenges come in many forms and can feel overwhelming. Whether you are coping with the death of a loved one, pet loss, divorce or separation, job loss, illness or disability, infertility, stressful caregiver trials, or other challenges life throws in your path, you may experience difficult feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety, discouragement, loneliness, hopelessness, or fear. My mission is for you to live YOUR best life possible. I OFFER: A place where your voice will be heard and a compassionate, inclusive, & confidential space to discuss your issues & concerns.
(989) 704-7127 View (989) 704-7127
Photo of Margaret Fedder, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Fedder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpena, MI 49707
There are times in our lives when it becomes essential for us to seek greater self-awareness and a fuller sense of meaning and purpose. Perhaps you're experiencing the end of a relationship, a major life transition, an intense period of stuckness, or frequent 3am panic that leaves you in a tailspin. Or, you might just be feeling like nothing is terribly wrong, but still not quite right. I offer support for adults 18+ who are looking for insight into their past experiences and present choices in order to craft a future that feels safe, authentic, and meaningful.
There are times in our lives when it becomes essential for us to seek greater self-awareness and a fuller sense of meaning and purpose. Perhaps you're experiencing the end of a relationship, a major life transition, an intense period of stuckness, or frequent 3am panic that leaves you in a tailspin. Or, you might just be feeling like nothing is terribly wrong, but still not quite right. I offer support for adults 18+ who are looking for insight into their past experiences and present choices in order to craft a future that feels safe, authentic, and meaningful.
(231) 714-6474 View (231) 714-6474

Online Therapists

Photo of Amanda Fackler, MEd, LLPC, NCC, Counselor
Amanda Fackler
Counselor, MEd, LLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harbor Beach, MI 48441
You may be feeling like you've lived with depression and anxiety this long, what could really change at this point? You may feel like you're in the sunset of your life, like you're a burden to your family, or you want to isolate. Maybe grief just keeps coming as others in your age range begin to deal with health issues, death, or permanently moving away. You may be the adult child of an aging parent looking for help for your parent because you see that they're hurting but they are too stubborn to ask for your help. Maybe you have just a sliver of hope that things could be different and you're not ready to give up yet.
You may be feeling like you've lived with depression and anxiety this long, what could really change at this point? You may feel like you're in the sunset of your life, like you're a burden to your family, or you want to isolate. Maybe grief just keeps coming as others in your age range begin to deal with health issues, death, or permanently moving away. You may be the adult child of an aging parent looking for help for your parent because you see that they're hurting but they are too stubborn to ask for your help. Maybe you have just a sliver of hope that things could be different and you're not ready to give up yet.
(810) 390-5468 View (810) 390-5468
Photo of Jules Shellby - Clinical Stress Relief and Counseling Center, MA, LPC, CAADC-D, ADS, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clinical Stress Relief and Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC-D, ADS, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686
Freedom! Ready to get unstuck? You're this far already, reading this. Seeking support proves you haven't given up. It shows you're strong. Heal with talking or spec.-acupuncture. Calm insomnia, ease your body, relieve fatigue or life dissatisfaction. Select TCM methods, or step-by-step techniques to quiet distress, process trauma, soothe anxiety/depression. Suffering alone isn't bravery; you DON'T have to live this way. Break free from diet-culture with intuitive, unconditional eating. Find your natural body size. Change your mood patterns/communication skill. Use a Professional Career Counselor for the job you deserve. Make a plan!
Freedom! Ready to get unstuck? You're this far already, reading this. Seeking support proves you haven't given up. It shows you're strong. Heal with talking or spec.-acupuncture. Calm insomnia, ease your body, relieve fatigue or life dissatisfaction. Select TCM methods, or step-by-step techniques to quiet distress, process trauma, soothe anxiety/depression. Suffering alone isn't bravery; you DON'T have to live this way. Break free from diet-culture with intuitive, unconditional eating. Find your natural body size. Change your mood patterns/communication skill. Use a Professional Career Counselor for the job you deserve. Make a plan!
(231) 259-5649 View (231) 259-5649
Photo of Elizabeth McDowell, MS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth McDowell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
McBain, MI 49657  (Online Only)
With a focus on serving specific populations, my target practice includes first responders, military personnel, pre and postpartum mothers, couples seeking premarital counseling, college-aged individuals, hospice patients, and those experiencing grief and loss. I also works extensively with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and personality disorders.
With a focus on serving specific populations, my target practice includes first responders, military personnel, pre and postpartum mothers, couples seeking premarital counseling, college-aged individuals, hospice patients, and those experiencing grief and loss. I also works extensively with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and personality disorders.
(231) 241-9760 View (231) 241-9760
Photo of Nicole Schaaf, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Schaaf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
You are worthy and deserving of inner peace and happiness. Sometimes we just need some guidance and support as we move toward achieving this. I bring 16 years of experience walking alongside those struggling with issues such as trauma, unhealthy relationships, mental health concerns and life hardships. I offer my clients care based on their individual needs as they sort through the past, gain a greater understanding of the difficulties in the present and lay the groundwork for a life fulfilling future.
You are worthy and deserving of inner peace and happiness. Sometimes we just need some guidance and support as we move toward achieving this. I bring 16 years of experience walking alongside those struggling with issues such as trauma, unhealthy relationships, mental health concerns and life hardships. I offer my clients care based on their individual needs as they sort through the past, gain a greater understanding of the difficulties in the present and lay the groundwork for a life fulfilling future.
(231) 624-5709 View (231) 624-5709
Photo of Grace Center - GRACE Center, MA, LPC, CAADC
GRACE Center
MA, LPC, CAADC
Not Verified Not Verified
Grayling, MI 49738
GRACE Center is a fully licensed and accredited substance abuse counseling facility serving Crawford and its surrounding counties. Our staff is experienced in a variety of treatment methods, which we put to use for the people who come to us for help.
GRACE Center is a fully licensed and accredited substance abuse counseling facility serving Crawford and its surrounding counties. Our staff is experienced in a variety of treatment methods, which we put to use for the people who come to us for help.
(989) 710-2117 View (989) 710-2117
Photo of Tamyra N Cooper, MSW , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamyra N Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
Cheboygan, MI 49721
Waitlist for new clients
A.C.E.S. stands for Attitude, Compassion, Education and Supports. These are the core attributes and values I use to help my clients and their families find answers, serenity, and balance. I have been helping families, frustrated parents and students who are struggling for well over a decade. My practice includes individual & family therapy, communication skills, education, modification of "behaviors" and helping families understand more of the “why” behind how we act and a deeper understanding of what we feel and how to make appropriate changes
A.C.E.S. stands for Attitude, Compassion, Education and Supports. These are the core attributes and values I use to help my clients and their families find answers, serenity, and balance. I have been helping families, frustrated parents and students who are struggling for well over a decade. My practice includes individual & family therapy, communication skills, education, modification of "behaviors" and helping families understand more of the “why” behind how we act and a deeper understanding of what we feel and how to make appropriate changes
(231) 597-4194 View (231) 597-4194
Photo of Adam DeVaney - Life's Work Clinic PLLC., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life's Work Clinic PLLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kalkaska, MI 49646
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, isolation, trauma, grief or an addiction? Our behavioral health team specializes in helping people with these types of challenges. We also offer Psychiatric Services as well as Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Addiction. We see healing as a two way street. It is a partnership. We are all in this together.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, isolation, trauma, grief or an addiction? Our behavioral health team specializes in helping people with these types of challenges. We also offer Psychiatric Services as well as Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Addiction. We see healing as a two way street. It is a partnership. We are all in this together.
(231) 360-2043 View (231) 360-2043
Photo of Hilary Johne Lake, MDiv, RSMT/E, Pastoral Counselor
Hilary Johne Lake
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, RSMT/E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petoskey, MI 49770
I’m honored that you’re here and curious to learn more. I call myself a healing arts interfaith community minister and I'm also a somatic movement therapist & educator as well as an artist. I help people remember their wholeness in connection with all of life through their bodies. I guide people through transformative change, grief and life initiations into new ways of being in relationship with themselves, their relationships, communities and the collective. The intention is to guide people into a greater sense of belonging, connection and authenticity that is available to us all from within our own bodies and beings.
I’m honored that you’re here and curious to learn more. I call myself a healing arts interfaith community minister and I'm also a somatic movement therapist & educator as well as an artist. I help people remember their wholeness in connection with all of life through their bodies. I guide people through transformative change, grief and life initiations into new ways of being in relationship with themselves, their relationships, communities and the collective. The intention is to guide people into a greater sense of belonging, connection and authenticity that is available to us all from within our own bodies and beings.
(231) 624-5861 View (231) 624-5861
Photo of Hayden Allen Scott, MA, LLC, Counselor
Hayden Allen Scott
Counselor, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49696
Waitlist for new clients
The path you have been walking may be worn down, peace, clarity, joy, and fulfillment feel distant, the storms of anxiety, depression, and trauma have become overwhelming. You don't have to travel through the storm alone. It is in caring relationships that healing sparks and growth endures. In therapy, a healing relationship starts when a safe space blossoms. In this safe space, I work with you to find the healing path you will step into.
The path you have been walking may be worn down, peace, clarity, joy, and fulfillment feel distant, the storms of anxiety, depression, and trauma have become overwhelming. You don't have to travel through the storm alone. It is in caring relationships that healing sparks and growth endures. In therapy, a healing relationship starts when a safe space blossoms. In this safe space, I work with you to find the healing path you will step into.
(231) 624-8635 View (231) 624-8635
Photo of Kari Jordan, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, MI 48640  (Online Only)
I view the professional relationship as one where we can build trust through transparency and dedication. Ideally, clients should be in a place where they are ready to work on their goals and issues. This will require looking closely at their life and identifying the parts where they would like improvement and then coming up with a plan together on how to implement skills to change those areas in their life they are not satisfied with.
I view the professional relationship as one where we can build trust through transparency and dedication. Ideally, clients should be in a place where they are ready to work on their goals and issues. This will require looking closely at their life and identifying the parts where they would like improvement and then coming up with a plan together on how to implement skills to change those areas in their life they are not satisfied with.
(989) 459-3125 View (989) 459-3125
Photo of Jennifer Cramer - Jenny Cramer, LMSW, PLLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Cramer, LMSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elk Rapids, MI 49629
Life can be overwhelming at times. Clients often express a loss of their sense of self, struggles with anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Societal expectations for people can seem crushingly unrealistic, leaving individuals to believe they are not good enough. Many are impacted by trauma and have formed deep-seeded, skewed values that have led to regrettable decisions, failed or troubled relationships, or any number of other situations. Each person needs to feel heard, understood, and connected. Finding a sense of joy, peace, and increased self-worth is not impossible. Help is here, judgement-free.
Life can be overwhelming at times. Clients often express a loss of their sense of self, struggles with anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Societal expectations for people can seem crushingly unrealistic, leaving individuals to believe they are not good enough. Many are impacted by trauma and have formed deep-seeded, skewed values that have led to regrettable decisions, failed or troubled relationships, or any number of other situations. Each person needs to feel heard, understood, and connected. Finding a sense of joy, peace, and increased self-worth is not impossible. Help is here, judgement-free.
(231) 251-2329 View (231) 251-2329
Photo of Jerry Richardson, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jerry Richardson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
This Therapist Has Immediate Availability! Counseling has been a passion of mine for many years and I would love to see what kind of help I can offer you. I work with clients through compassion, humor, and unconditional positive regard. Whether it’s through straightforward honesty or easing through difficult topics and allowing a gentle approach, I can provide a style of therapy that best fits you and your personality.
This Therapist Has Immediate Availability! Counseling has been a passion of mine for many years and I would love to see what kind of help I can offer you. I work with clients through compassion, humor, and unconditional positive regard. Whether it’s through straightforward honesty or easing through difficult topics and allowing a gentle approach, I can provide a style of therapy that best fits you and your personality.
(231) 403-0865 View (231) 403-0865
Photo of Allison Gross, LLMSW, QMHP, QIDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Gross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, QMHP, QIDP
Verified Verified
Cheboygan, MI 49721
Life is full of challenges. Any child can benefit from extra support to navigate these. Many children struggle to cope with their mental health. Serving clients under the age of 18, my goal is to help fulfill the goals that you and your child have. I believe that seeking therapy at a young age is the first step in having a positive and fulfilling future. Whether it be the stressors of every day life, behavior concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health related needs, I am here to help you and your child navigate through this.
Life is full of challenges. Any child can benefit from extra support to navigate these. Many children struggle to cope with their mental health. Serving clients under the age of 18, my goal is to help fulfill the goals that you and your child have. I believe that seeking therapy at a young age is the first step in having a positive and fulfilling future. Whether it be the stressors of every day life, behavior concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health related needs, I am here to help you and your child navigate through this.
(231) 598-6904 View (231) 598-6904
Photo of Cindy Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cindy Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49696  (Online Only)
I believe that counseling is a collaboration between client and therapist. I combine both traditional therapy techniques (CBT, DBT, etc.) with the knowledge that each member brings about themselves to help them create the best rest of their lives. Humor, feedback, support, skill building and education are all used in this collaboration. Warning: I give homework! I use lots of humor in therapy. Some of the issues I am adept at working with are: Pet Loss/Grief, People Loss/Grief, Native American Issues, Menopause, Neurodiversity and Introvert issues, Self Esteem and Confidence, Caregiver issues, Isolation and Loneliness, and much more
I believe that counseling is a collaboration between client and therapist. I combine both traditional therapy techniques (CBT, DBT, etc.) with the knowledge that each member brings about themselves to help them create the best rest of their lives. Humor, feedback, support, skill building and education are all used in this collaboration. Warning: I give homework! I use lots of humor in therapy. Some of the issues I am adept at working with are: Pet Loss/Grief, People Loss/Grief, Native American Issues, Menopause, Neurodiversity and Introvert issues, Self Esteem and Confidence, Caregiver issues, Isolation and Loneliness, and much more
(231) 261-2764 View (231) 261-2764
Photo of Chad Allee - Michigan Safe Space LGBT+ Therapy & Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michigan Safe Space LGBT+ Therapy & Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
We welcome you. We will welcome you regardless of your present status; anxious, sad, angry, lonely, happy, questioning, depressed, lost or otherwise. We will welcome you regardless of your current family situation, relationship or marital status or lack thereof. We will welcome you if you have been to therapy in the past, are looking to come in for the first time, or have no idea what to expect. We will not judge you based upon your personal history, age, race, ethnic background, appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all beliefs, religions, spirituality, and affiliations. We welcome you.
We welcome you. We will welcome you regardless of your present status; anxious, sad, angry, lonely, happy, questioning, depressed, lost or otherwise. We will welcome you regardless of your current family situation, relationship or marital status or lack thereof. We will welcome you if you have been to therapy in the past, are looking to come in for the first time, or have no idea what to expect. We will not judge you based upon your personal history, age, race, ethnic background, appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all beliefs, religions, spirituality, and affiliations. We welcome you.
(231) 277-2414 View (231) 277-2414

See more therapy options for Alpena County

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.