Therapists in Zeeland, MI

My clients often believe they are a burden to others. They think they need to be perfect to be loved and that it would overwhelm others to know how they really feel. These beliefs leave them feeling anxious, lonely, ashamed and unhappy. They often isolate and use pornography, video games or substances to numb themselves. They may seek advice online, but find this information unhelpful. They may beat themselves up in frustration. Often, they seek therapy to have: better relationships; security and trust to express their needs; greater motivation and a sense of control over their life; and the confidence to be their authentic selves.

People enter into a counseling relationship when nothing else seems to be working. Although most people soon make comments such as, “(Counseling) was a lot better than I thought it would be”, few people seek counseling as a first option. More often we seek out techniques that either help us to temporarily avoid (e.g., media, social networking) our anxiety, or we seek temporary shots of pleasure (e.g., alcohol, food, pornography) that make us feel good for a short time. Soon enough we realize that all of these things leave us feeling more hollow and lonely, and that is when we start thinking about counseling.

Reaching out can be the most challenging task to engage in. Constant changes and life transitions can leave us feeling disconnected and overwhelmed. Relationships can feel strained with our partners, friends, family and even ourselves. Creating space to navigate these life impacts is one way I seek to help clients.

I provide culturally-responsive and affirming individual therapy to youth and adults. My therapeutic practice is based on radical honesty and collaboration, grounded in trauma-informed practices and mind-body connection. I center your voice and experiences to support healing, empowerment, and self-compassion. I'm also committed to social justice, and I recognize the many ways a person’s health and wellbeing can be impacted by social challenges. Together, we can work towards healing and self-determination.

My guess is you are here because you or your child have recently discovered something about yourselves that has made life challenging. Maybe you just got a diagnosis from another provider and you don't know what to do with it. Maybe you're looking for a diagnosis that won't be delivered in a stigmatizing manner. For this reason, I'm very happy you are here! Taking that first step to learn more about yourself is challenging. I'm glad you are able to take this next step in your mental health journey!

It takes a lot of strength to reach out when you are in need, and it says a lot about you that you are seeking support. If you choose to work with me, I promise to be patient as you address the challenges in your life. My primary approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which teaches individuals to change negative patterns of thinking to more positive and helpful thoughts. CBT helps individuals understand the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and actions and is one of the most common forms of therapy. It is evidence-based and has proven to be effective for a variety of mental health issues.

I interlace myriad strategies for assuaging complex trauma, increasing vulnerability, improving emotional and physical intimacy, strengthening relationships, and decreasing the disconnecting symptoms of anxiety, depression, and personality disorders, specifically Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).

Axel Hettinger (he/him) specializes in client-focused therapeutic techniques. His work incorporates the arts and any special interests clients may have. Axel is a queer therapist who strives to create a welcoming, affirming and warm environment for all clients, and specifically works with LGBTQIA+ clients seeking gender-affirming care. For several years he’s worked with adolescents as a counselor, mentor, and community organizer. Axel is a regular collaborator and facilitator with the Grand Rapids Pride Center and speaks at Universities and schools to promote cultural understanding of underserved communities.