Therapists in Midtown, Grand Rapids, MI

Life has a way of knocking us down, doesn’t it? It can be tough to create a life that feels fulfilling. We can find ourselves dissatisfied in our relationships, career, or life, and it can be difficult to shake the nagging sense that life has not turned out how we expected or hoped. Perhaps, you are struggling with a difficult boss or a job that doesn’t quite seem to fit your skill set. Or perhaps, no matter matter how hard you try you cannot seem to make progress with your relationships (whether that be your spouse, significant other, family, or friends), and it continues to be distant, disconnected, or conflicted.

I am passionate about assisting others to find healing with psychotherapy. I strive to provide a supportive space in which my clients can do whatever type of work they would like to focus on. I specialize in working with clients who have a history of trauma, depression, identity development, anxiety and college age/young professional aged adults.

*Currently CLOSED to new patients. Please email for referral options* I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan with a speciality in Interpersonal Practice and Health. I completed my post-Graduate certificate in Sexual Health and Sex education at the University of Michigan and am a fully AASECT Certified Sex Therapist.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults experiencing difficulties due to the trauma of sexual victimization and domestic violence. I have worked extensively within the Kent County Family Court system and various area agencies in addressing safety and advocacy issues for children and families. Additional areas of clinical expertise include anxiety and panic disorder, marriage counseling and working with divorced parents in establishing an effective co-parenting plan for the children. I have co-facilitated a grief recovery support group for the past 6 years.

Come as you are. I have many years of experience working with people and have seen people travel from brokenness to restoration. This isn't the end of your story. It takes an incredible amount of courage to face things in life but you don't have to be alone. I know that it can be scary to walk into a therapy room and share things that require great vulnerability. Lack of self-love. Infertility. Pregnancy Loss. Postpartum Depression. Guilt/Shame. Life Transitions. Identity. Marriage and Family Issues. Whatever you're facing, I would love to help you find healing.

As we age, I can't help but think that our lives may go off the path we originally intended. While life can be full of many positive changes and events, there may also be experiences in which one may develop feelings of shame, guilt, anxiety, and/or depression. It can be hard to recognize life isn't always 'perfect' and to determine how and where to give up control. It can be difficult to embrace the good and bad parts of our lives; but it can be just as empowering to develop the next chapter just as you would like it to be. My goal is to help you leap into the unknown, build more authenticity and awareness, and start living a life with more fulfillment.

Counseling is an important way to invest in your health and future. For some, counseling can be a way to work through difficult life seasons, including career transition, parenting or relationship stress, divorce, or grief/loss. For others who may have a history of abuse, depression, anxiety, or other condition, counseling can help one learn to manage symptoms and to pursue a life of joy and contentment. For couples or families, for whom old ways of connecting and resolving problems are no longer working, psychotherapy provides a way to explore how a situation began and to develop new ways of resolving difficulties.

Therapy is about uncovering desire. It is an adventure in moving past, dissolving or reducing painful problems and embracing life, love and relationships. It is more than words; it is experiencing oneself in ways that are meaningful, whatever that looks like for each person. I work with individuals and couples (gay, straight, poly, trans), who want more from their lives. I believe there is always hope and possibilities and I passionately work with people to discover opportunities for more of what they want in life.

At one time or another we all experience challenges in creating the lives we desire. I am passionate about working collaboratively with you to aid you in developing healthier relationships and learning effective strategies to overcome life's obstacles. I aid clients in addressing issues such as: trauma, anxiety, depression, identity development, sexual abuse, sexual assault, women's issues, and relationship concerns. By developing a greater understanding of ourselves and our relationships I believe that we can find greater meaning in our lives.

As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults, I have helped countless individuals, couples, and families achieve their treatment goals. From the moment you begin the counseling process, you will experience a warm and empathic approach that builds upon the strengths you already possess. Together we will identify the goals you want to achieve, and together we will address the barriers that are getting in the way. You will always be an active participant in this collaborative and solution-focused approach.

I believe all people generally have the resources to help themselves, yet sometimes simply need a safe, trustworthy professional to help work through issues, identify goals, make healthy decisions and take steps necessary to live life more fully. I use an integrative approach that draws largely from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), solutions-focused and cognitive behavioral theories. I recognize and respect the fact that individuals have widely varying perspectives and needs. Lastly, I am fully virtual and offer either phone or video sessions.

I work with adults primarily, but will accept ages 17 and 18. I focus on Substance Use Disorders and Co- Occurring Disorders and general Mental Health problems. I am skilled in Couples Therapy and in working with Co dependent spouses. I have experience with the prison system and work with Parolees and Probationers. I treat issues of Self Image, Self Esteem, and Anger Management skills as well as relationship difficulties. Please note that I am no longer with Northwest Counseling. I have joined Bloom Behavioral Health Partners. My personal web site is www.rationaltherapytechniques.com.

Are you Searching for Help with Coping with Major Life Issues such as gender/sexual identity, family relations, job stress, feeling down or anxious? Are you having trouble with your child's behaviors or concerned about their moods and emotions? Dr. Matthew Clark offers supportive therapy with helpful suggestions for you or you and your family. Spirituality can be a part of your treatment if this is an area of interest. Behavior management programs that have proven effective are offered. Education and guidance around LGBTQ+ issues.

I am a Licensed Master Social Worker. I earned my bachelor's degree in History from Taylor University; a Master's degree in Student Personnel Administration in Higher Education from Ball State University; and a Master's degree in Social Work from Grand Valley State University. I have over 25 years of experience working in counseling, training, higher education, non-profit administration, and financial planning. My experience as a clinical therapist, has spanned over 23 years. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, addictive personalities, spiritual issues, financial issues, and cognitive restructuring.