Therapists in Kalamazoo County, MI

Jessica Boss, LMSW, is a dedicated mental health provider at LifeStance Health, serving patients across Michigan. She specializes in helping adults and seniors navigate the challenges of anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. With a compassionate and solutionfocused approach, Jessica provides individual therapy, intensive outpatient programs IOP, and group therapy, tailoring her treatment plans to each clients unique needs.
Jessica Boss, LMSW, is a dedicated mental health provider at LifeStance Health, serving patients across Michigan. She specializes in helping adults and seniors navigate the challenges of anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. With a compassionate and solutionfocused approach, Jessica provides individual therapy, intensive outpatient programs IOP, and group therapy, tailoring her treatment plans to each clients unique needs.

Life can be challenging at times; if your current ways of coping aren’t working it can feel overwhelming and life may seem unmanageable, Sometimes the guidance of a professional can provide you the clarity needed to help you move forward. I work with teens and adults seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, substance use, codependency and life transitions as well as with families affected by these issues. I enjoy working with parents and their adult children seeking to improve communication and resolve past and current conflict.
Life can be challenging at times; if your current ways of coping aren’t working it can feel overwhelming and life may seem unmanageable, Sometimes the guidance of a professional can provide you the clarity needed to help you move forward. I work with teens and adults seeking treatment for depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, substance use, codependency and life transitions as well as with families affected by these issues. I enjoy working with parents and their adult children seeking to improve communication and resolve past and current conflict.

Samantha Sanders
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49024
Waitlist for new clients
Life changes, and so do relationships. All lasting relationships are built on choosing each other everyday, and when we lose sight of that, the foundation begins to crumble. All families are blended in one way or another. A relationship in and of itself is two different people coming together; whether it be mother-daughter, father-son, friends, or romantic partners. A marriage is a commitment to blend two families. Families with different values, interests, and belief systems.
Life changes, and so do relationships. All lasting relationships are built on choosing each other everyday, and when we lose sight of that, the foundation begins to crumble. All families are blended in one way or another. A relationship in and of itself is two different people coming together; whether it be mother-daughter, father-son, friends, or romantic partners. A marriage is a commitment to blend two families. Families with different values, interests, and belief systems.

I am a licensed psychologist with a background in community mental health and university counseling practicing privately since 2011. I take a holistic approach to therapeutic work, using the context of culture, personal development, and multiple dimensions of identity. I also specialize in evidence-based therapies including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, radically open dbt (RODBT) for issues of over-control, and prolonged exposure for PTSD. I am board certified as a DBT therapist through the Linehan Institute and infuse elements of DBT like mindfulness practice into my general work.
I am a licensed psychologist with a background in community mental health and university counseling practicing privately since 2011. I take a holistic approach to therapeutic work, using the context of culture, personal development, and multiple dimensions of identity. I also specialize in evidence-based therapies including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, radically open dbt (RODBT) for issues of over-control, and prolonged exposure for PTSD. I am board certified as a DBT therapist through the Linehan Institute and infuse elements of DBT like mindfulness practice into my general work.

Kristine Ann Briggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I have more than eighteen (18) years of experience, working with children and adolescents struggling in school. I have helped numerous children and adolescents who suffer from severe behavior issues. My passion is helping a child learn the skills that they need to communicate and get along more effectively with others. I believe with the right tools any child can be more successful in school and their community. I enjoy helping children learn to better control their emotions and improve relationships within their families.
I have more than eighteen (18) years of experience, working with children and adolescents struggling in school. I have helped numerous children and adolescents who suffer from severe behavior issues. My passion is helping a child learn the skills that they need to communicate and get along more effectively with others. I believe with the right tools any child can be more successful in school and their community. I enjoy helping children learn to better control their emotions and improve relationships within their families.

Melissa LaCharite
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily work with children, adolescents, and families. Many of my clients have struggled with life transitions, symptoms of anxiety, depression symptoms, and social skills. Parents are invited to come to sessions to support skills inside and outside the counseling session. Collaborating with the family supports allows for skill acquisition and client empowerment.
I primarily work with children, adolescents, and families. Many of my clients have struggled with life transitions, symptoms of anxiety, depression symptoms, and social skills. Parents are invited to come to sessions to support skills inside and outside the counseling session. Collaborating with the family supports allows for skill acquisition and client empowerment.
Since the 1980s, I have seen many clients seeking psychological assessments. At the first meeting with the client, I do thorough psychosocial history to assess individual strengths and ask the person to work with me on what needs to be changed. From there, I decide what testing would be helpful and set up an appointment for the assessment battery. Additionally, I have taught counseling skills as well as psychological assessments to graduate doctoral students for many years. I have taught courses in forensic psychology and brain behavior relationships. I supervise the work of several counselors and psychologists.
Since the 1980s, I have seen many clients seeking psychological assessments. At the first meeting with the client, I do thorough psychosocial history to assess individual strengths and ask the person to work with me on what needs to be changed. From there, I decide what testing would be helpful and set up an appointment for the assessment battery. Additionally, I have taught counseling skills as well as psychological assessments to graduate doctoral students for many years. I have taught courses in forensic psychology and brain behavior relationships. I supervise the work of several counselors and psychologists.

I am so glad you are here. I’d like to applaud you for taking some of the first steps to conquering the challenges that life can throw our way. Life has its ups and downs, and I am honored to be here with you while you navigate through it.
I am so glad you are here. I’d like to applaud you for taking some of the first steps to conquering the challenges that life can throw our way. Life has its ups and downs, and I am honored to be here with you while you navigate through it.

Therapy can be quite difficult. Having a safe environment to talk about and process life's difficulties is so very important. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I'm here to support and empower you. You can expect me to patiently walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself, respect your uniqueness, and invest in your emotional well-being. I will hold space for you. I believe in the power of creativity to help us heal and grow.
Therapy can be quite difficult. Having a safe environment to talk about and process life's difficulties is so very important. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I'm here to support and empower you. You can expect me to patiently walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself, respect your uniqueness, and invest in your emotional well-being. I will hold space for you. I believe in the power of creativity to help us heal and grow.

Transformation from depression, anxiety, personal problems, grief, life transitions and other issues can be challenging. It is important to have the right support and a strong, positive relationship with your counselor. I work to provide an environment that is both safe and non-judgmental. I will help you identify the things you want to be different in your life and develop skills and a plan for reaching your desired goals.
Transformation from depression, anxiety, personal problems, grief, life transitions and other issues can be challenging. It is important to have the right support and a strong, positive relationship with your counselor. I work to provide an environment that is both safe and non-judgmental. I will help you identify the things you want to be different in your life and develop skills and a plan for reaching your desired goals.

Amanda Frey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
2025 Update: I can take BCBS or self-pay, with new client availability Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10a-3:30p varying week to week. To stay true to my specialization and passion, I only accept new clients for relationship counseling purposes (or through a personalized referral). This can be for couples or individual counseling that centers around relationship issues. I also work closely with the queer community (LGBTQ+, nonmonogamy, kink-friendly, etc.), and I love helping clients create and maintain boundaries while becoming their authentic selves.
2025 Update: I can take BCBS or self-pay, with new client availability Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10a-3:30p varying week to week. To stay true to my specialization and passion, I only accept new clients for relationship counseling purposes (or through a personalized referral). This can be for couples or individual counseling that centers around relationship issues. I also work closely with the queer community (LGBTQ+, nonmonogamy, kink-friendly, etc.), and I love helping clients create and maintain boundaries while becoming their authentic selves.
Meet Our Therapists

Shaly Penrod is a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. Being content, comfortable, and at peace with oneself is something many, if not all, wish to feel and experience. As a therapist that has walked alongside the journeys of individuals from diverse walks of life, Shaly seeks to empower individuals to be curious about oneself in order to live a life that brings you closer to understanding your past and fears of the future in order to live a present self-life. For many years Shaly has worked with diverse populations, spanning many different cultures and ethnicities.
Shaly Penrod is a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2022. Being content, comfortable, and at peace with oneself is something many, if not all, wish to feel and experience. As a therapist that has walked alongside the journeys of individuals from diverse walks of life, Shaly seeks to empower individuals to be curious about oneself in order to live a life that brings you closer to understanding your past and fears of the future in order to live a present self-life. For many years Shaly has worked with diverse populations, spanning many different cultures and ethnicities.

Our lives do not always go the way we planned. We all experience challenges and struggles and find ourselves searching for relief. I view therapy as a time to heal, grow, change, discover, and build. I have worked with clients to address such concerns as self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, parenting, work and career concerns, life transitions, stress and coping, and grief and loss to name a few.
Our lives do not always go the way we planned. We all experience challenges and struggles and find ourselves searching for relief. I view therapy as a time to heal, grow, change, discover, and build. I have worked with clients to address such concerns as self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, parenting, work and career concerns, life transitions, stress and coping, and grief and loss to name a few.

Are you at a career crossroads – entering the workforce, re-careering, retiring? Struggling with choosing a field of study or career path? Transitioning from military to civilian life/career? Stressing about having multiple generations living under one roof? Experiencing anxiety about going away to college? As a career/employment counselor with over 20 years of experience working with individuals and groups in various stages of personal and professional development, my empathetic, yet straightforward approach, helps individuals/groups feel understood and confident in navigating the dynamics of career transformations.
Are you at a career crossroads – entering the workforce, re-careering, retiring? Struggling with choosing a field of study or career path? Transitioning from military to civilian life/career? Stressing about having multiple generations living under one roof? Experiencing anxiety about going away to college? As a career/employment counselor with over 20 years of experience working with individuals and groups in various stages of personal and professional development, my empathetic, yet straightforward approach, helps individuals/groups feel understood and confident in navigating the dynamics of career transformations.

Kimberly Napoli
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I utilize an integrative approach to therapy that encompasses a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, clinical art therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness techniques. Together, we will explore the roots of negative self-talk, maladaptive behaviors, and emotional dysregulation. Our focus will be on overcoming the barriers to personal growth and fostering a path toward positive change. You will discover how to transform unhelpful physical and emotional responses to stressors into effective coping mechanisms and develop healthier communication strategies.
I utilize an integrative approach to therapy that encompasses a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, clinical art therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness techniques. Together, we will explore the roots of negative self-talk, maladaptive behaviors, and emotional dysregulation. Our focus will be on overcoming the barriers to personal growth and fostering a path toward positive change. You will discover how to transform unhelpful physical and emotional responses to stressors into effective coping mechanisms and develop healthier communication strategies.

Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy (KEBT) is an individually owned practice bringing together therapists trained in and practicing evidence based therapy including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, exposure-based therapies for anxiety, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and radically open DBT (RODBT) for issues of over-control. KEBT is founded by psychologist, Victoria Cane, who specializes in the treatment of emotion dysregulation disorder (a more accurate name for borderline personality disorder), eating disorders, and LGBTQIA-affirmative therapy.
Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy (KEBT) is an individually owned practice bringing together therapists trained in and practicing evidence based therapy including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, exposure-based therapies for anxiety, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and radically open DBT (RODBT) for issues of over-control. KEBT is founded by psychologist, Victoria Cane, who specializes in the treatment of emotion dysregulation disorder (a more accurate name for borderline personality disorder), eating disorders, and LGBTQIA-affirmative therapy.

Rachael Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Welcome! I have been practicing in the social work field for the past ten years. I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of different roles and with different populations including children, families, individuals and the geriatric population. I have been passionate about changing the lives of individuals in my community for as a long as I can recall. I have had experience in a variety of roles including working in foster care within the case management setting, community mental health setting, private practice setting, and overseeing program development with non-profit organizations.
Welcome! I have been practicing in the social work field for the past ten years. I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of different roles and with different populations including children, families, individuals and the geriatric population. I have been passionate about changing the lives of individuals in my community for as a long as I can recall. I have had experience in a variety of roles including working in foster care within the case management setting, community mental health setting, private practice setting, and overseeing program development with non-profit organizations.

Everyone goes through challenging situations in life! While you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties, there's nothing wrong with seeking extra support when you need it. I provide long lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, redirect damaging patterns and overcome whatever challenges you may face! I can also help you attain a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values. Develop skills for improving your relationships. Cope with stress, anxiety, depression and other emotional pressures. Most importantly improve your self-esteem and boost your self confidence!
Everyone goes through challenging situations in life! While you may have successfully navigated through other difficulties, there's nothing wrong with seeking extra support when you need it. I provide long lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, redirect damaging patterns and overcome whatever challenges you may face! I can also help you attain a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values. Develop skills for improving your relationships. Cope with stress, anxiety, depression and other emotional pressures. Most importantly improve your self-esteem and boost your self confidence!

Are you going through a difficult change and need some support? Or maybe you are feeling "stuck," like you're repeating patterns and behaviors that are keeping you from having the life you want. Perhaps you're struggling with feelings of anxiety, sadness, or lack of purpose. I believe in the power of human connection. Sometimes when we struggle, we don't want others to see our pain, so we isolate and keep it to ourselves. We may even paste on a smile and tell everyone we're "fine." Every single person on this planet experiences struggles, and reaching out for help is one of the bravest and kindest things you can do for yourself.
Are you going through a difficult change and need some support? Or maybe you are feeling "stuck," like you're repeating patterns and behaviors that are keeping you from having the life you want. Perhaps you're struggling with feelings of anxiety, sadness, or lack of purpose. I believe in the power of human connection. Sometimes when we struggle, we don't want others to see our pain, so we isolate and keep it to ourselves. We may even paste on a smile and tell everyone we're "fine." Every single person on this planet experiences struggles, and reaching out for help is one of the bravest and kindest things you can do for yourself.

Are you someone who is struggling with parts of life and would like a teammate to work through these difficulties with? Or are you a parent of a child who is struggling and you want to give them some extra support? I pride myself on taking the time to understand and learn as much as I can about each individual I work with to support them in discovering more about themselves and empower them to grow. Each individual is the expert on their lives and circumstances, I will meet you there and we will work toward achieving the outcomes you most desire for you and your loved ones.
Are you someone who is struggling with parts of life and would like a teammate to work through these difficulties with? Or are you a parent of a child who is struggling and you want to give them some extra support? I pride myself on taking the time to understand and learn as much as I can about each individual I work with to support them in discovering more about themselves and empower them to grow. Each individual is the expert on their lives and circumstances, I will meet you there and we will work toward achieving the outcomes you most desire for you and your loved ones.
See more therapy options for Kalamazoo County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Kalamazoo County, MI
700+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Kalamazoo County, MI who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Self Esteem |
72% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Coping Skills |
71% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
72% | Priority Health |
66% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Kalamazoo County, MI see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |