Teletherapy for Oceana County, MI

Photo of Chelsea Fritcher Hayes, LMSW
Chelsea Fritcher Hayes
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m so glad you’re here. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my goal is to offer you a supportive, compassionate space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Life can be challenging, whether you’re facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, trauma, caregiver fatigue, parenting challenges, trauma caused by betrayal, marital issues, divorce, or difficulties faced within the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is to walk alongside you, helping you build the skills and confidence to face those challenges with strength and resilience.
I’m so glad you’re here. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my goal is to offer you a supportive, compassionate space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Life can be challenging, whether you’re facing ADHD, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, trauma, caregiver fatigue, parenting challenges, trauma caused by betrayal, marital issues, divorce, or difficulties faced within the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is to walk alongside you, helping you build the skills and confidence to face those challenges with strength and resilience.
(231) 241-5944 View (231) 241-5944
Photo of Jennifer L James-Witteveen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer L James-Witteveen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and unable to focus. Perhaps, the challenges of daily living have begun to feel overwhelming. You are ready for help but unsure of where to turn. How would it feel to wake up free from the burdens you have carried for so long?As a mental health therapist, I’m here to help you discover that answer. My philosophy is rooted in self-empowerment. I believe in helping my clients rediscover their confidence and live a life unshackled from the daily responsibilities of living. You will notice that I provide a therapeutic approach tailored to you and your unique circumstances.
You feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and unable to focus. Perhaps, the challenges of daily living have begun to feel overwhelming. You are ready for help but unsure of where to turn. How would it feel to wake up free from the burdens you have carried for so long?As a mental health therapist, I’m here to help you discover that answer. My philosophy is rooted in self-empowerment. I believe in helping my clients rediscover their confidence and live a life unshackled from the daily responsibilities of living. You will notice that I provide a therapeutic approach tailored to you and your unique circumstances.
(231) 867-0626 View (231) 867-0626
Photo of Dr. Susan J Zonnebelt-Smeenge, RN, EdD, Psychologist
Dr. Susan J Zonnebelt-Smeenge
Psychologist, RN, EdD
Verified Verified
Pentwater, MI 49449
I am a fully Licensed Clinical Psychologist and R.N. in private practice in Georgia and Michigan. I worked as a psychologist in MI for 24 years in a large psychiatric mental health inpatient/outpatient facility, moved to GA in 2013 and established a private practice. For over 2 decades I presented workshops and seminars nationally at numerous professional organizations with a specialty in the field of dying, grief, and loss. I was widowed at 46 and have co-authored 5 books on grief and 1 on dying. I see clients online and in-person for a variety of counseling needs and co-facilitate educational grief groups (including GriefShare).
I am a fully Licensed Clinical Psychologist and R.N. in private practice in Georgia and Michigan. I worked as a psychologist in MI for 24 years in a large psychiatric mental health inpatient/outpatient facility, moved to GA in 2013 and established a private practice. For over 2 decades I presented workshops and seminars nationally at numerous professional organizations with a specialty in the field of dying, grief, and loss. I was widowed at 46 and have co-authored 5 books on grief and 1 on dying. I see clients online and in-person for a variety of counseling needs and co-facilitate educational grief groups (including GriefShare).
(616) 441-3841 View (616) 441-3841

See more therapy options for Oceana County

Online Therapists

Is online therapy as effective as in-person?

Numerous studies suggest that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. However, further research is needed to determine if online therapy provides the same benefits across all client populations. Individuals with severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or those who may benefit from in-person check-ins, like those with eating disorders, may not experience the same level of benefit from online therapy. Nonetheless, the success of online therapy, much like in-person therapy, often hinges on the quality of the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client rather than the specific modality of therapy used.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of therapy conducted online?

One of the main advantages of online therapy is its convenience for both clients and therapists. It also allows clients who require specialized therapy to access a wider range of professionals than they could with only in-person sessions. Additionally, online therapy may be a more affordable option in some cases and often offers the same insurance benefits as in-person therapy. However, online therapy may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who value face-to-face interaction with a therapist. Therapists may find it more challenging to assess clients accurately in an online setting due to reduced nonverbal cues on camera. There is also the increased risk that disruptions caused by external factors, such as technology malfunctions, can hinder the therapy session. For these reasons, many therapists offer a "hybrid" therapeutic approach, alternating between seeing clients in-person and online.

Is online therapy suitable for children and adolescents?

Just like with adults, the accessibility and convenience of online therapy can greatly benefit children and adolescents. In fact, children and adolescents may be more accustomed to navigating online platforms than older adults, making online sessions feel more natural for them. Teens might also be interested in using additional online tools, such as therapist-recommended apps, as an adjunct to online therapy sessions. Apps for developing CBT skills, practicing mindfulness exercises, or tracking thoughts and moods can be helpful for teens receiving therapy. However, it's important to note that not all therapeutic modalities are well-suited to online therapy, especially those used with younger children. For example, play therapy, which helps younger children express their emotions, often requires in-person sessions to be fully effective.

Can I receive prescriptions and medication management with online therapy?

The ability for psychiatrists to prescribe medications through online therapy varies based on the medication and the states where the medical professional and client are located. While many prescribing regulations were relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic, some states still enforce rules, especially concerning controlled substances, which may mandate an in-person visit before prescribing. Generally, however, medical professionals can prescribe non-controlled substances through online therapy sessions just as they do during in-person sessions.