Photo of Nika Lenee Fesler, Counselor in 49503, MI
Nika Lenee Fesler
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Some of the techniques that I have been trained in and find most helpful are: Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR).
One of the most important things for me is a clinician is that we are addressing the needs and goals of the client, that means that nobody else’s agenda is going to be prioritized. That also means that identifying those needs and goals will be the foundation of the work and what we go back to if we get lost and what we might change if movement is stunted. While there is not any prep work I would ask prior to a session, I would encourage any prospective clients to consider what they would like to accomplish in therapy. I offer intensive EMDR sessions (3-8 hours) and am currently able to schedule clients for intensive sessions.
Some of the techniques that I have been trained in and find most helpful are: Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR).
One of the most important things for me is a clinician is that we are addressing the needs and goals of the client, that means that nobody else’s agenda is going to be prioritized. That also means that identifying those needs and goals will be the foundation of the work and what we go back to if we get lost and what we might change if movement is stunted. While there is not any prep work I would ask prior to a session, I would encourage any prospective clients to consider what they would like to accomplish in therapy. I offer intensive EMDR sessions (3-8 hours) and am currently able to schedule clients for intensive sessions.
(616) 226-5749 View (616) 226-5749
Photo of Melissa Lynne Andrews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Melissa Lynne Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Melissa’s counseling style combines strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, emotional focused and solution-focused approaches to help individuals achieve their therapeutic goals.
Melissa has experience working with adults, college age students, and adolescents. Clinical issues that she has the most experience with includes personality disorders, depression, trauma, grief, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem issues, obsessive and compulsive behaviors, and stress management. A main focus of treatment is to establish a therapeutic alliance with the client. Melissa believes that having a good connection helps facilitate effective counseling and provides the best outcomes. In therapy, she is supportive, compassionate, and present with individuals both in times of struggle as well as times of achievement.
Melissa’s counseling style combines strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, emotional focused and solution-focused approaches to help individuals achieve their therapeutic goals.
Melissa has experience working with adults, college age students, and adolescents. Clinical issues that she has the most experience with includes personality disorders, depression, trauma, grief, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem issues, obsessive and compulsive behaviors, and stress management. A main focus of treatment is to establish a therapeutic alliance with the client. Melissa believes that having a good connection helps facilitate effective counseling and provides the best outcomes. In therapy, she is supportive, compassionate, and present with individuals both in times of struggle as well as times of achievement.
(616) 236-4505 View (616) 236-4505
Photo of Matthew Stoel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Matthew Stoel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
These include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solutions Focused Brief Therapy, and a variety of mindfulness skills and techniques.
I believe having the ability to quickly build rapport and a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients is one of the most important aspects of helping enable and support change. Throughout the course of my career as a school social worker and therapist, I have worked closely with preteen, teen, and young adults going through a wide range of behavioral and mental health concerns. Within my practice, I provide an empathetic and non-judgmental environment that meets preteens, teens and young adults where they are so they can express their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a safe and welcoming environment.
These include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solutions Focused Brief Therapy, and a variety of mindfulness skills and techniques.
I believe having the ability to quickly build rapport and a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients is one of the most important aspects of helping enable and support change. Throughout the course of my career as a school social worker and therapist, I have worked closely with preteen, teen, and young adults going through a wide range of behavioral and mental health concerns. Within my practice, I provide an empathetic and non-judgmental environment that meets preteens, teens and young adults where they are so they can express their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a safe and welcoming environment.
(616) 504-2738 View (616) 504-2738
Photo of Kaili Ball, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Kaili Ball
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I provide individual therapy (no couples at this time) to clients ages 16+ with skills including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, & Mindfulness based approaches.
The decision to start therapy can be overwhelming & anxiety provoking. You may be wondering how therapy can help or who the right therapist is. You're not alone! My hope is to help you feel comfortable & confident in your decision to be here. I have over eight years of clinical experience working with depression, anxiety, life transitions, mood disorders, family &/or relational conflict, grief, complex medical diagnoses, & trauma. I strive to create an environment in which we identify where change is needed while highlighting the strengths you already possess. I value building trust, fostering connection, & embracing vulnerability.
I provide individual therapy (no couples at this time) to clients ages 16+ with skills including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, & Mindfulness based approaches.
The decision to start therapy can be overwhelming & anxiety provoking. You may be wondering how therapy can help or who the right therapist is. You're not alone! My hope is to help you feel comfortable & confident in your decision to be here. I have over eight years of clinical experience working with depression, anxiety, life transitions, mood disorders, family &/or relational conflict, grief, complex medical diagnoses, & trauma. I strive to create an environment in which we identify where change is needed while highlighting the strengths you already possess. I value building trust, fostering connection, & embracing vulnerability.
(616) 947-5049 View (616) 947-5049
Photo of Reclaim Life Therapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Reclaim Life Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed by life and not sure how to get through another day? Troubled by the past and not sure how to resolve it? Is anxiety, depression, or grief the main feelings you experience on a daily basis? Do you want to be content and free from worry? To enjoy life to it's fullest?
Are you overwhelmed by life and not sure how to get through another day? Troubled by the past and not sure how to resolve it? Is anxiety, depression, or grief the main feelings you experience on a daily basis? Do you want to be content and free from worry? To enjoy life to it's fullest?
(616) 871-2419 View (616) 871-2419
Photo of Robb Kornoelje, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49503, MI
Robb Kornoelje
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Therapy doesn't have to last forever but the benefits will. Most issues people face are relational in nature. There are emotions and behaviors that are problematic. These might include feelings of shame, discontentment, apathy, anger or even numbness. The behaviors might range from avoidance to compulsive and addictive. Are you experiencing problems with yourself or others? In therapy, you'll learn to be challenged and gain tools to handle difficult feelings while making decisions to do the hard work to change behaviors.
Therapy doesn't have to last forever but the benefits will. Most issues people face are relational in nature. There are emotions and behaviors that are problematic. These might include feelings of shame, discontentment, apathy, anger or even numbness. The behaviors might range from avoidance to compulsive and addictive. Are you experiencing problems with yourself or others? In therapy, you'll learn to be challenged and gain tools to handle difficult feelings while making decisions to do the hard work to change behaviors.
(616) 236-2735 View (616) 236-2735
Photo of Bridget Gottlieb, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Bridget Gottlieb, LMSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Even though transitions are a part of all of our lives, they sometimes stir up old pain or are just too overwhelming to navigate without some help. You deserve the time and support to work through it and counseling can provide that for you. I believe in a person centered, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral and strength based counseling approach. I have over 17 years of experience using these approaches working with individuals of all ages dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illnesses and transitions at all stages of life.
Even though transitions are a part of all of our lives, they sometimes stir up old pain or are just too overwhelming to navigate without some help. You deserve the time and support to work through it and counseling can provide that for you. I believe in a person centered, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral and strength based counseling approach. I have over 17 years of experience using these approaches working with individuals of all ages dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, chronic illnesses and transitions at all stages of life.
(616) 560-6701 View (616) 560-6701
Photo of Sarah Riemersma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Sarah Riemersma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Welcome! As humans, we are all on a path of healing and growing. We are born with intrinsic worth, but through painful experiences, we internalize untruths. Our work is about creating a new truth by trimming the pain that keeps you stuck in shame, toxic relational patterns, negative thoughts, unhealthy habits and loss of purpose. Collaboration is the foundation of my work. Humans are the experts in their lives, but I do have experience and training in how to help people make the changes they desire, as well as providing compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental care.
Welcome! As humans, we are all on a path of healing and growing. We are born with intrinsic worth, but through painful experiences, we internalize untruths. Our work is about creating a new truth by trimming the pain that keeps you stuck in shame, toxic relational patterns, negative thoughts, unhealthy habits and loss of purpose. Collaboration is the foundation of my work. Humans are the experts in their lives, but I do have experience and training in how to help people make the changes they desire, as well as providing compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental care.
(616) 441-4186 View (616) 441-4186
Photo of Kelsey Enriquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Kelsey Enriquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Life can be challenging; there are moments of happiness, sadness and everything in-between. Managing complex emotions on your own can be overwhelming. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore your emotions by using the tools you already have, but may not have tapped into quite yet. Through collaboration we can navigate your past, present and future. Together we will create a safe space for you to thrive within.
Life can be challenging; there are moments of happiness, sadness and everything in-between. Managing complex emotions on your own can be overwhelming. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore your emotions by using the tools you already have, but may not have tapped into quite yet. Through collaboration we can navigate your past, present and future. Together we will create a safe space for you to thrive within.
(616) 737-0270 View (616) 737-0270
Photo of Catherine A VanDeWege, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Catherine A VanDeWege
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
My therapeutic intervention is looking at the past as necessary in making changes for the future. I'm certain that any unwanted behavior can be unlocked by recognizing the purpose or wanted outcome for said behavior and my passion is helping you identify that unmet need and make healthy changes. I enjoy working with clients that are willing to do things outside of the therapeutic office setting such as writing, art, and/or practicing skills learned, and then reporting back in session the helpfulness of each strategy.
My therapeutic intervention is looking at the past as necessary in making changes for the future. I'm certain that any unwanted behavior can be unlocked by recognizing the purpose or wanted outcome for said behavior and my passion is helping you identify that unmet need and make healthy changes. I enjoy working with clients that are willing to do things outside of the therapeutic office setting such as writing, art, and/or practicing skills learned, and then reporting back in session the helpfulness of each strategy.
(616) 499-6212 View (616) 499-6212
Photo of David VanMeurs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
David VanMeurs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Taking steps toward change is not easy. As a counselor, it is my desire to see people grow and change in order to achieve their goals. My approach is collaborative, straightforward, and balanced, and I tailor my work to meet your needs. I believe the effective therapeutic relationship is built on authenticity and honesty. In our sessions, you can expect to receive empathy, support, and a judgement-free environment. With uncertainty in our lives and in the world today, my goal is to find grounding for you to support achievement of your goals.
Taking steps toward change is not easy. As a counselor, it is my desire to see people grow and change in order to achieve their goals. My approach is collaborative, straightforward, and balanced, and I tailor my work to meet your needs. I believe the effective therapeutic relationship is built on authenticity and honesty. In our sessions, you can expect to receive empathy, support, and a judgement-free environment. With uncertainty in our lives and in the world today, my goal is to find grounding for you to support achievement of your goals.
(616) 504-6155 View (616) 504-6155
Photo of Maryam Thomas Mindful Health Aac, Counselor in 49503, MI
Maryam Thomas Mindful Health Aac
Counselor, MA LLPC, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
Life is not always easy, but if you are willing to invest in yourself, your mental wellbeing, or even spiritual growth, the transformation you’ll see will be well worth the healthier you.
Life is not always easy, but if you are willing to invest in yourself, your mental wellbeing, or even spiritual growth, the transformation you’ll see will be well worth the healthier you.
(616) 577-8754 View (616) 577-8754
Photo of WMU Center for Counseling & Psychological Services, Psychologist in 49503, MI
WMU Center for Counseling & Psychological Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
The Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CCPS-GR) has been providing psychological care for the greater Grand Rapids area since 2001. Our center is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids and offers low-cost counseling services, as well as psychological assessment and testing. The counselors working at the center are advanced graduate students earning degrees in counseling psychology or counselor education at Western Michigan University. All clinical services are closely supervised by doctoral-level, licensed mental health professionals.
The Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CCPS-GR) has been providing psychological care for the greater Grand Rapids area since 2001. Our center is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids and offers low-cost counseling services, as well as psychological assessment and testing. The counselors working at the center are advanced graduate students earning degrees in counseling psychology or counselor education at Western Michigan University. All clinical services are closely supervised by doctoral-level, licensed mental health professionals.
(616) 208-4208 View (616) 208-4208
Photo of Megan Bardenhagen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Megan Bardenhagen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
It's difficult when you feel alone, and you are not sure who you can talk to. Especially when you have been hurt in the past, & have felt misunderstood when you tried to communicate how you felt. You want someone who will listen to you without judging or criticizing you and who recognizes everything you have been through. You want to feel seen, heard, valued, and cared for. You're hoping that therapy will help you to build a life that you feel is worth living for. You want every day to feel a little bit easier and to not be in so much pain. I want to help you meet the goals that you have for your life and meet you where you are at.
It's difficult when you feel alone, and you are not sure who you can talk to. Especially when you have been hurt in the past, & have felt misunderstood when you tried to communicate how you felt. You want someone who will listen to you without judging or criticizing you and who recognizes everything you have been through. You want to feel seen, heard, valued, and cared for. You're hoping that therapy will help you to build a life that you feel is worth living for. You want every day to feel a little bit easier and to not be in so much pain. I want to help you meet the goals that you have for your life and meet you where you are at.
(616) 441-4220 View (616) 441-4220
Photo of Christina Fong, Counselor in 49503, MI
Christina Fong
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
If you feel misunderstood, I seek to bring understanding. Perhaps you have been labeled with a disorder, feel like you are on the outside looking in, or have a general need to put into words what it is like to be you. You may have a lifetime of struggles, find yourself at a troubling crossroads, not knowing who you are, seeking clarity, or just need someone to listen to you.
If you feel misunderstood, I seek to bring understanding. Perhaps you have been labeled with a disorder, feel like you are on the outside looking in, or have a general need to put into words what it is like to be you. You may have a lifetime of struggles, find yourself at a troubling crossroads, not knowing who you are, seeking clarity, or just need someone to listen to you.
(616) 504-2499 View (616) 504-2499
Photo of Micah J. White, Psychologist in 49503, MI
Micah J. White
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Life can be difficult and sometimes we find ourselves feeling stuck, stressed, and lost. I seek to provide an affirming, nonjudgmental, and compassionate therapeutic environment to help you navigate life’s challenges and work toward a healthier and more meaningful life. My work involves helping people to explore the impact of past experiences, understand unhelpful patterns in their thinking and relationships, process painful emotions, and learn new skills to cope with their distress.
Life can be difficult and sometimes we find ourselves feeling stuck, stressed, and lost. I seek to provide an affirming, nonjudgmental, and compassionate therapeutic environment to help you navigate life’s challenges and work toward a healthier and more meaningful life. My work involves helping people to explore the impact of past experiences, understand unhelpful patterns in their thinking and relationships, process painful emotions, and learn new skills to cope with their distress.
(231) 412-4669 View (231) 412-4669
Photo of John Owen Klott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
John Owen Klott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Jack Klott, MSW (He/Him) believes therapy is about the relationship between therapist and client. He assists client sin discovering their hurt and manage challenges. Jack listens to clients’ hopes, their social context, their sense of self, and their history of trauma. He has experience working with people struggling with substance abuse and people who have lost a loved one to suicide. He’s invested in working with people as they move into later stages of life and the challenges of that transition. Jack also works with parents and loved one of children who have identified themselves as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Jack Klott, MSW (He/Him) believes therapy is about the relationship between therapist and client. He assists client sin discovering their hurt and manage challenges. Jack listens to clients’ hopes, their social context, their sense of self, and their history of trauma. He has experience working with people struggling with substance abuse and people who have lost a loved one to suicide. He’s invested in working with people as they move into later stages of life and the challenges of that transition. Jack also works with parents and loved one of children who have identified themselves as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(616) 439-2738 View (616) 439-2738
Photo of Susie Kim-VanderGriend, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Susie Kim-VanderGriend
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be complicated with challenging experiences, thoughts, feelings and even body sensations and my hope is that you are not holding it all alone. As a therapist, I strive to provide a secure space for you to engage in a non-judgmental, collaborative relationship. I believe in the strength and healing power that resides in the core of each person. Whatever challenges you are facing, I seek to come alongside you in the therapy space to facilitate healing and growth. I trust that together, we can work to make sense of what is happening - now and in the past to lead more empowered and fulfilled lives moving forward.
Life can be complicated with challenging experiences, thoughts, feelings and even body sensations and my hope is that you are not holding it all alone. As a therapist, I strive to provide a secure space for you to engage in a non-judgmental, collaborative relationship. I believe in the strength and healing power that resides in the core of each person. Whatever challenges you are facing, I seek to come alongside you in the therapy space to facilitate healing and growth. I trust that together, we can work to make sense of what is happening - now and in the past to lead more empowered and fulfilled lives moving forward.
(616) 208-3196 View (616) 208-3196
Photo of Keegan Ferris, Counselor in 49503, MI
Keegan Ferris
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Young professionals and adolescents can find it difficult to adapt in a world that is constantly changing and setting new standards for beauty, success, and self-worth. The ability to feel at home in your own skin and make important choices about family, friends, and partners can be exceeding difficult in today's world. It takes courage to let someone into your life story and even more courage to make meaningful changes in your life. I understand what it is like to go on that journey of self discovery, and I welcome the opportunity to help.
Young professionals and adolescents can find it difficult to adapt in a world that is constantly changing and setting new standards for beauty, success, and self-worth. The ability to feel at home in your own skin and make important choices about family, friends, and partners can be exceeding difficult in today's world. It takes courage to let someone into your life story and even more courage to make meaningful changes in your life. I understand what it is like to go on that journey of self discovery, and I welcome the opportunity to help.
(616) 253-9043 View (616) 253-9043
Photo of Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49503, MI
Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Are you or your family going through a difficult time? Maybe you are experiencing relational challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, struggling to make sense of traumatic experiences, or worrying about your child's emotional or social functioning. At Bethany, we have an expert team of trauma-informed, culturally responsive counseling and psychiatric professionals who will walk alongside you in the pursuit of personal and relational wellbeing. As a community rooted in hope, our clinicians create an inclusive space that is open to all. No matter what you are facing, we are here to help.
Are you or your family going through a difficult time? Maybe you are experiencing relational challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, struggling to make sense of traumatic experiences, or worrying about your child's emotional or social functioning. At Bethany, we have an expert team of trauma-informed, culturally responsive counseling and psychiatric professionals who will walk alongside you in the pursuit of personal and relational wellbeing. As a community rooted in hope, our clinicians create an inclusive space that is open to all. No matter what you are facing, we are here to help.
(616) 523-3525 View (616) 523-3525

Motivational Interviewing Therapists

How does motivational interviewing work?

Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathizes, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.

Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?

Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviors in children.

How long does motivational interviewing last?

Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.

What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?

In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behavior.