LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Byron Center, MI

Photo of Bradley Redeker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MDiv
Bradley Redeker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MDiv
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping those going through significant life events and discernment, individuals who experience depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, as well as those who identify as LGBTQIA.
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which can be a powerful treatment for PTSD, anxiety, grief, performance improvement, depression and many other conditions—I highly recommend this approach. I also offer more traditional approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and like to incorporate solution focused techniques.
I specialize in helping those going through significant life events and discernment, individuals who experience depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, as well as those who identify as LGBTQIA.
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which can be a powerful treatment for PTSD, anxiety, grief, performance improvement, depression and many other conditions—I highly recommend this approach. I also offer more traditional approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and like to incorporate solution focused techniques.
(616) 310-4885 View (616) 310-4885
Photo of Kerina Luark, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LLPC
Kerina Luark
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LLPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! I’m Kerina, a children’s mental health therapist specializing in working with kids ages 2–16, including neurodivergent children and those with diverse developmental needs. I help children navigate anxiety, emotional regulation, sensory differences, social challenges, self-esteem, and big feelings that can feel overwhelming at home, school, or in relationships. For families interested in more comprehensive support, I collaborate with the speech, feeding, and occupational therapists in my office to help meet each child’s emotional, sensory, communication, and developmental needs.
Hi! I’m Kerina, a children’s mental health therapist specializing in working with kids ages 2–16, including neurodivergent children and those with diverse developmental needs. I help children navigate anxiety, emotional regulation, sensory differences, social challenges, self-esteem, and big feelings that can feel overwhelming at home, school, or in relationships. For families interested in more comprehensive support, I collaborate with the speech, feeding, and occupational therapists in my office to help meet each child’s emotional, sensory, communication, and developmental needs.
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Photo of Jennifer Brink, Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Jennifer Brink
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
1 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
I aim for clients to feel safe enough to talk about the things they never really talk about. Can't talk about with others. Are not even sure WHAT they need to talk about but know it's something because their body tells them so. Nervous systems adapt ways each person carries their burdens from childhood into adulthood but that doesn't mean it's working well. My clients are seeking to understand the root issues of problem areas, how their mind and body are connected in storing trauma, emotions, patterns of familial dynamics, and figuring out how to break cycles that limit a fulfilling life to just surviving day to day.
I aim for clients to feel safe enough to talk about the things they never really talk about. Can't talk about with others. Are not even sure WHAT they need to talk about but know it's something because their body tells them so. Nervous systems adapt ways each person carries their burdens from childhood into adulthood but that doesn't mean it's working well. My clients are seeking to understand the root issues of problem areas, how their mind and body are connected in storing trauma, emotions, patterns of familial dynamics, and figuring out how to break cycles that limit a fulfilling life to just surviving day to day.
(616) 737-0509 View (616) 737-0509
Photo of Sharon Wassenar, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Sharon Wassenar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Byron Center, MI 49315
My ideal client is one that is their authentic self in sessions. I find that when a client is open and honest about who they are and what they struggle with they are also more successful at achieving their goals. I typically see teens and adults who struggle with things like: anxiety, OCD, depression, perfectionism, fear of failure, grief, trauma, and life transitions. I find that most clients want to be heard, understood and validated.
My ideal client is one that is their authentic self in sessions. I find that when a client is open and honest about who they are and what they struggle with they are also more successful at achieving their goals. I typically see teens and adults who struggle with things like: anxiety, OCD, depression, perfectionism, fear of failure, grief, trauma, and life transitions. I find that most clients want to be heard, understood and validated.
(616) 208-5371 View (616) 208-5371
Photo of Sarah Rae Domke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Sarah Rae Domke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Byron Center, MI 49315
I am social worker (LMSW) who specializes in working with children and adolescents, anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD, ASD, and LGBTQ+ issues.
My therapeutic approach focuses on collaboration with clients for their specific goals. Techniques include CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and practicing skills in session. Clients should expect an inclusive and empathetic environment.
I am social worker (LMSW) who specializes in working with children and adolescents, anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD, ASD, and LGBTQ+ issues.
My therapeutic approach focuses on collaboration with clients for their specific goals. Techniques include CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and practicing skills in session. Clients should expect an inclusive and empathetic environment.
(616) 577-8641 View (616) 577-8641
Photo of Margaret Kos, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Margaret Kos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
Making the decision to enter into therapy can be difficult, but finding the right therapist can even feel more challenging. To have success in counseling the most important element is to feel a connection with the therapist. Understanding the importance of the therapeutic relationship has allowed my clients to feel comfortable and achieve success in their therapeutic goals. I have practiced in this field for over twenty five years and still have the same excitement developing a therapeutic plan for each client and be part of their journey to success. Please feel free to contact me with any question you may have about counseling.
Making the decision to enter into therapy can be difficult, but finding the right therapist can even feel more challenging. To have success in counseling the most important element is to feel a connection with the therapist. Understanding the importance of the therapeutic relationship has allowed my clients to feel comfortable and achieve success in their therapeutic goals. I have practiced in this field for over twenty five years and still have the same excitement developing a therapeutic plan for each client and be part of their journey to success. Please feel free to contact me with any question you may have about counseling.
(616) 432-2601 View (616) 432-2601
Photo of Erin Batenburg, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Erin Batenburg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Byron Center, MI 49315
Life can often get overwhelming. Whether you're struggling with depression, working through a traumatic experience, or grieving the loss of a loved one, sometimes you just need a listening ear. Therapy can provide that non-judgmental, supportive space to sit down with all of life's baggage and sort it out, piece by piece. Chances are, you know what to do next and how to keep going, you just need the time and the space to figure it out. When you sit in my therapy chair, you are the expert on you, while I guide you through the process of understanding yourself more deeply and more clearly.
Life can often get overwhelming. Whether you're struggling with depression, working through a traumatic experience, or grieving the loss of a loved one, sometimes you just need a listening ear. Therapy can provide that non-judgmental, supportive space to sit down with all of life's baggage and sort it out, piece by piece. Chances are, you know what to do next and how to keep going, you just need the time and the space to figure it out. When you sit in my therapy chair, you are the expert on you, while I guide you through the process of understanding yourself more deeply and more clearly.
(616) 201-1405 View (616) 201-1405
Photo of Addie Reeves, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, R-DMT
Addie Reeves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, R-DMT
Byron Center, MI 49315
Sometimes we all need to find extra connection and support. Whether it be new or chronic symptoms of anxiety or depression, challenges from your past, or you are seeking counseling for extra self-care, I would be honored to be your supportive connection. Together we can work to identify goals that are meaningful for you and promote wellness in your life. In a session with me, my goal is to make you feel welcome, seen, and heard. My therapy style is person-centered, and I will always approach our connection with empathy and respect.
Sometimes we all need to find extra connection and support. Whether it be new or chronic symptoms of anxiety or depression, challenges from your past, or you are seeking counseling for extra self-care, I would be honored to be your supportive connection. Together we can work to identify goals that are meaningful for you and promote wellness in your life. In a session with me, my goal is to make you feel welcome, seen, and heard. My therapy style is person-centered, and I will always approach our connection with empathy and respect.
(616) 208-5709 View (616) 208-5709
Photo of Robert G Brown, Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, Certifi, MDiv
Robert G Brown
Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, Certifi, MDiv
Byron Center, MI 49315
The most expensive kind of therapy is the kind that doesn't work. Maybe it feels scary to wonder if real healing can happen. I'm a Certified EMDR Therapist and I combine IFS with EMDR therapy to create an effective method that has worked for permanent healing time and again. Instead of feeling bad about certain parts of ourselves, I encourage people to instead get curious and compassionate toward these "parts of themselves" that are trying to keep them safe and help them by making them anxious, insecure, and angry. We slow things down and get to know you, one part at a time.
The most expensive kind of therapy is the kind that doesn't work. Maybe it feels scary to wonder if real healing can happen. I'm a Certified EMDR Therapist and I combine IFS with EMDR therapy to create an effective method that has worked for permanent healing time and again. Instead of feeling bad about certain parts of ourselves, I encourage people to instead get curious and compassionate toward these "parts of themselves" that are trying to keep them safe and help them by making them anxious, insecure, and angry. We slow things down and get to know you, one part at a time.
(616) 219-8515 View (616) 219-8515
Photo of Megan Coleman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Megan Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a child and family therapist, offering child and adolescent individual and family therapy. Overall, I find the therapeutic relationship the most important piece of therapy, and use an integrative approach including evidence-based treatment. My goal is to provide a welcoming, open-minded, and supportive therapy environment focused on helping clients make the changes they want in their lives.
I am a child and family therapist, offering child and adolescent individual and family therapy. Overall, I find the therapeutic relationship the most important piece of therapy, and use an integrative approach including evidence-based treatment. My goal is to provide a welcoming, open-minded, and supportive therapy environment focused on helping clients make the changes they want in their lives.
(616) 288-2627 View (616) 288-2627
Photo of Dr. Stacey Vandenberg, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Dr. Stacey Vandenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychologist with over 29 years of experience helping others navigate life's journey. I offer a judgment-free environment to overcome life's challenges and provide a haven for self-discovery. Through this process, my clients have recognized their ability to heal and gain a greater insight into self-empowerment. I specialize in overcoming trauma, parts therapy (IFS), EMDR, relationships, anxiety, depression, and more, with individuals/couples in coordination with their PCP, when needed. I have found that how we perceive ourselves is our reality, and together, we can broaden that perspective.
I am a psychologist with over 29 years of experience helping others navigate life's journey. I offer a judgment-free environment to overcome life's challenges and provide a haven for self-discovery. Through this process, my clients have recognized their ability to heal and gain a greater insight into self-empowerment. I specialize in overcoming trauma, parts therapy (IFS), EMDR, relationships, anxiety, depression, and more, with individuals/couples in coordination with their PCP, when needed. I have found that how we perceive ourselves is our reality, and together, we can broaden that perspective.
(231) 307-8491 View (231) 307-8491
Photo of Audrey Vander Wal, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Audrey Vander Wal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with adults, families, college students, and teens. I often work with clients who are working through life transitions, anxiety, or depression. My goal in counseling is to offer a safe space for clients to process challenges that they are facing. Counseling is a process and I hope to encourage and give clients different skills for facing life challenges.
I work with adults, families, college students, and teens. I often work with clients who are working through life transitions, anxiety, or depression. My goal in counseling is to offer a safe space for clients to process challenges that they are facing. Counseling is a process and I hope to encourage and give clients different skills for facing life challenges.
(616) 557-6300 View (616) 557-6300
Photo of Dr. Joshua Bishop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Dr. Joshua Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in treating anxiety, abuse, trauma and PTSD effectively and efficiently. I'm trained in 3 evidence-based (validated by research) therapies for treating PTSD, and my goal is to help you find healing as quickly as possible so that you can feel un-stuck and free to be yourself. During your first appointments, we'll determine the best plan for your therapy. Some approaches emphasize talking, while others have very little talking. Some use creative elements and story, while others work directly to treat your brain and nervous system. I also provide general counseling for depression, anxiety, identity, and relationships.
I specialize in treating anxiety, abuse, trauma and PTSD effectively and efficiently. I'm trained in 3 evidence-based (validated by research) therapies for treating PTSD, and my goal is to help you find healing as quickly as possible so that you can feel un-stuck and free to be yourself. During your first appointments, we'll determine the best plan for your therapy. Some approaches emphasize talking, while others have very little talking. Some use creative elements and story, while others work directly to treat your brain and nervous system. I also provide general counseling for depression, anxiety, identity, and relationships.
(616) 208-4995 View (616) 208-4995
Photo of Annalise Hammerlund, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Annalise Hammerlund
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Expressive Arts Therapist and Licensed professional counselor. When someone comes to me for therapy, we first work to address any immediate concerns, and then explore some of the challenges that might be under and around those concerns. I am passionate about working with Neurodiverse individuals, and helping to solve problems, foster growth and facilitate understanding. People are the experts of their own experience. It is my role as therapist to walk with you and offer insight into that experience, allowing you to make connections and find meaning.
I am an Expressive Arts Therapist and Licensed professional counselor. When someone comes to me for therapy, we first work to address any immediate concerns, and then explore some of the challenges that might be under and around those concerns. I am passionate about working with Neurodiverse individuals, and helping to solve problems, foster growth and facilitate understanding. People are the experts of their own experience. It is my role as therapist to walk with you and offer insight into that experience, allowing you to make connections and find meaning.
(616) 219-8053 View (616) 219-8053
Photo of Kalen Drake Sanders, Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Kalen Drake Sanders
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Online Only
I am a fully licensed psychologist who specializes in both therapy and assessment services. Through assessment, I help you to identify areas of strength and weakness, and put a name to symptoms you might not fully understand. I believe when we begin to truly understand ourselves and finally name our symptoms and diagnoses, we are better able to reclaim our story and work towards growth and healing. Through every assessment, my ultimate goal is for you to feel safe, honored, and seen for who you truly are.
I am a fully licensed psychologist who specializes in both therapy and assessment services. Through assessment, I help you to identify areas of strength and weakness, and put a name to symptoms you might not fully understand. I believe when we begin to truly understand ourselves and finally name our symptoms and diagnoses, we are better able to reclaim our story and work towards growth and healing. Through every assessment, my ultimate goal is for you to feel safe, honored, and seen for who you truly are.
(616) 300-2331 View (616) 300-2331
Photo of Natalie Paulson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Natalie Paulson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are feeling overwhelmed or stuck, if issues like anxiety or depression are holding you back, or if your past is getting in the way of the present, counseling can help. Whether you are dealing with new life stressors or ongoing problems, I am here to help you find a way forward! I have worked with individuals experiencing a broad range of concerns such as grief, relational traumas, mood disorders, life transitions, social anxiety, perfectionism, and OCD. I also frequently work with couples experiencing relationship conflicts and feelings of disconnection.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or stuck, if issues like anxiety or depression are holding you back, or if your past is getting in the way of the present, counseling can help. Whether you are dealing with new life stressors or ongoing problems, I am here to help you find a way forward! I have worked with individuals experiencing a broad range of concerns such as grief, relational traumas, mood disorders, life transitions, social anxiety, perfectionism, and OCD. I also frequently work with couples experiencing relationship conflicts and feelings of disconnection.
(616) 201-0605 View (616) 201-0605
Photo of Elise Ferrary - The Holding Space Counseling and Wellness, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, PMH-C
The Holding Space Counseling and Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, PMH-C
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in working with women across the lifespan- including perinatal, fertility, loss, chronic illness, relational issues, and generalized issues such as anxiety/depression. I strive to provide empathetic care for clients, based on their individual needs. I ensure my client's feel safe in an environment that will foster exploration and growth, helping others to live a happy and healthy life.
I specialize in working with women across the lifespan- including perinatal, fertility, loss, chronic illness, relational issues, and generalized issues such as anxiety/depression. I strive to provide empathetic care for clients, based on their individual needs. I ensure my client's feel safe in an environment that will foster exploration and growth, helping others to live a happy and healthy life.
(906) 368-4549 View (906) 368-4549
Photo of Wesley K Washington - Clear Vision Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Clear Vision Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
I enjoy clients with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and problems. My personal style is supportive, and my approach with clients is holistic in focus I want to see clients the best version of themselves that they can possibly be . My goal is for each client to achieve more personal awareness, emotional stability, and effective behavior as a result of our work together. Presenting issues might be: Depression; Bipolar disorder; Anxiety Disorders; Trauma/PTSD; Stress related medical problems; or Life transitions. I provide individual therapy for older children, teens, and adults.
I enjoy clients with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and problems. My personal style is supportive, and my approach with clients is holistic in focus I want to see clients the best version of themselves that they can possibly be . My goal is for each client to achieve more personal awareness, emotional stability, and effective behavior as a result of our work together. Presenting issues might be: Depression; Bipolar disorder; Anxiety Disorders; Trauma/PTSD; Stress related medical problems; or Life transitions. I provide individual therapy for older children, teens, and adults.
(616) 275-5868 View (616) 275-5868
Photo of Delia White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Delia White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults(7-23) to discuss anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life transitions. I most enjoy working with children, teens, and young adults struggling with anxiety and or ADHD. I also have personal experience with chronic illness as I have POTS. My number one goal is to create an environment that is safe and empowering, so you feel comfortable to work through life's ups and downs together. Others describe my therapy approach as direct, authentic, and supportive!
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults(7-23) to discuss anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life transitions. I most enjoy working with children, teens, and young adults struggling with anxiety and or ADHD. I also have personal experience with chronic illness as I have POTS. My number one goal is to create an environment that is safe and empowering, so you feel comfortable to work through life's ups and downs together. Others describe my therapy approach as direct, authentic, and supportive!
(616) 441-0853 View (616) 441-0853
Photo of Ashley D'Amico, Counselor, LLPC
Ashley D'Amico
Counselor, LLPC
Serves Area
Have you ever felt like your identity, your relationship, or even your own body, were shifting faster than you could keep up? My approach integrates clinical expertise with somatic and body based practices like breathwork, sensory grounding, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help support nervous system regulation, emotional resilience, and whole person healing. Together, we work to reconnect you with your voice, your boundaries, and the parts of you that may have gone quiet in the chaos of caregiving, career pressure, or chronic stress.
Have you ever felt like your identity, your relationship, or even your own body, were shifting faster than you could keep up? My approach integrates clinical expertise with somatic and body based practices like breathwork, sensory grounding, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help support nervous system regulation, emotional resilience, and whole person healing. Together, we work to reconnect you with your voice, your boundaries, and the parts of you that may have gone quiet in the chaos of caregiving, career pressure, or chronic stress.
(616) 898-2892 View (616) 898-2892

See more therapy options for Byron Center

LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.