Relational Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Jim Rossi, Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Jim Rossi
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I primarily operate from a relational/ACT perspective.
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, eating disorders, weight loss, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, and general life stress. I understand that it can be extremely stressful to manage emotional or physical health concerns in our fast paced, high pressure society. Throughout my training, I have admired the people I have worked with who are making transitions and want to examine themselves, their past, and their interpersonal environment to make changes that work for them.
I primarily operate from a relational/ACT perspective.
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with chronic illness, eating disorders, weight loss, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, and general life stress. I understand that it can be extremely stressful to manage emotional or physical health concerns in our fast paced, high pressure society. Throughout my training, I have admired the people I have worked with who are making transitions and want to examine themselves, their past, and their interpersonal environment to make changes that work for them.
(616) 326-3249 View (616) 326-3249
Photo of Dr. Nicole Olivas, Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Dr. Nicole Olivas
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I have extensive experience addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relational problems, identity development concerns and multicultural issues.
I am dedicated to providing high-quality neuropsychological/psychological assessments (ages 9 and up), as well as individual and group therapy services (ages 18 and up). My goal is to help individuals lead more fulfilling lives. I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and empathy. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered. I am passionate about making the assessment process accessible and understandable for everyone and believe a thorough assessment can provide valuable diagnostic clarity and treatment recommendations.
I have extensive experience addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relational problems, identity development concerns and multicultural issues.
I am dedicated to providing high-quality neuropsychological/psychological assessments (ages 9 and up), as well as individual and group therapy services (ages 18 and up). My goal is to help individuals lead more fulfilling lives. I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and empathy. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered. I am passionate about making the assessment process accessible and understandable for everyone and believe a thorough assessment can provide valuable diagnostic clarity and treatment recommendations.
(616) 236-6817 View (616) 236-6817
Photo of Zach Sietsema, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Zach Sietsema
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I use a relational focused philosophy that can be adapted to provide a tailored therapy experience for each client.
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.
I use a relational focused philosophy that can be adapted to provide a tailored therapy experience for each client.
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.
(616) 303-5416 x15 View (616) 303-5416 x15
Photo of Katie Halma, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Katie Halma
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Seeing how your past affects your current relational interactions sheds light on why you respond or react in certain ways.
Welcome. I'm glad you're here and would be happy to help. I believe that we all have the innate desire to be accepted, so I aim to provide a warm and caring environment where you will feel safe to be yourself. I weave validation, insight, empathy and humor in my sessions.
Seeing how your past affects your current relational interactions sheds light on why you respond or react in certain ways.
Welcome. I'm glad you're here and would be happy to help. I believe that we all have the innate desire to be accepted, so I aim to provide a warm and caring environment where you will feel safe to be yourself. I weave validation, insight, empathy and humor in my sessions.
(269) 399-3060 View (269) 399-3060
Photo of Tracy Thompson, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Tracy Thompson
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I see whole families, groups and couples for relational therapy.
Tracy Thompson is the owner of the Family Therapy Place, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Tracy specializes in working with children and families who have discovered that life can be a tough journey. Tracy’s training and speciality is with children who have experienced developmental trauma, often due to neglect or abuse. Tracy has a strong belief and training in the experiences of attachment and works with families to rebuild and nurture attachments when they have been broken. Tracy also works with adult families that are working to manage and resolve conflict that has surfaced or created separation within the family.
I see whole families, groups and couples for relational therapy.
Tracy Thompson is the owner of the Family Therapy Place, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Tracy specializes in working with children and families who have discovered that life can be a tough journey. Tracy’s training and speciality is with children who have experienced developmental trauma, often due to neglect or abuse. Tracy has a strong belief and training in the experiences of attachment and works with families to rebuild and nurture attachments when they have been broken. Tracy also works with adult families that are working to manage and resolve conflict that has surfaced or created separation within the family.
(616) 818-0933 View (616) 818-0933
Photo of John R Curphey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
John R Curphey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Most of us have seasons of distress or relational stress in which we need new perspectives and support. Sometimes old hurts play into the immediate conflict. We may try to work everything out on our own, but often that is just not happening or not even possible. That is where talk therapy comes in. It is all about support for the present and hope for the future as clients deconstruct and reconstruct the pieces of their story. The renewal and redemption of that story is very often a key to successful therapy.
Most of us have seasons of distress or relational stress in which we need new perspectives and support. Sometimes old hurts play into the immediate conflict. We may try to work everything out on our own, but often that is just not happening or not even possible. That is where talk therapy comes in. It is all about support for the present and hope for the future as clients deconstruct and reconstruct the pieces of their story. The renewal and redemption of that story is very often a key to successful therapy.
(616) 208-4814 View (616) 208-4814
Photo of Tim Gruppen, Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Tim Gruppen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
My approach to therapy is integrative and includes relational, cognitive-behavioral, and emotionally-focused methods.
Currently scheduling new clients, immediate openings available. I look forward to working together to identify and address your concerns in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. Whether you are seeking short-term or long-term therapy, I will collaborate with you to process your feelings, find solutions, or identify helpful coping skills. I have experience providing a wide range of psychological services for adults in outpatient therapy and medical rehabilitation settings. Areas I specialize in include anxiety, depression, sleep, grief, trauma, and coping with major life transitions (e.g. adjustment to disability).
My approach to therapy is integrative and includes relational, cognitive-behavioral, and emotionally-focused methods.
Currently scheduling new clients, immediate openings available. I look forward to working together to identify and address your concerns in a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. Whether you are seeking short-term or long-term therapy, I will collaborate with you to process your feelings, find solutions, or identify helpful coping skills. I have experience providing a wide range of psychological services for adults in outpatient therapy and medical rehabilitation settings. Areas I specialize in include anxiety, depression, sleep, grief, trauma, and coping with major life transitions (e.g. adjustment to disability).
(616) 201-3178 View (616) 201-3178
Photo of Tess Hoekstra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Tess Hoekstra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
Using a person-centered, cognitive behavioral, and integrative approach, I work with individuals battling anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief, healing from abuse, relational issues, body image issues, life transitions and adjustments, guilt, shame and much more.
I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is the most important thing when starting therapy. I work diligently to provide a safe and comfortable space for my clients. It is important to me that my clients experience an atmosphere of trust and empathy in building the therapeutic alliance. Through deep processing, my hope is that the unconscious may come forward and bring new realizations to help in growth, healing, and understanding while navigating your life circumstances. I believe that growth comes in the uncomfortable circumstances that we face in life.
Using a person-centered, cognitive behavioral, and integrative approach, I work with individuals battling anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief, healing from abuse, relational issues, body image issues, life transitions and adjustments, guilt, shame and much more.
I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is the most important thing when starting therapy. I work diligently to provide a safe and comfortable space for my clients. It is important to me that my clients experience an atmosphere of trust and empathy in building the therapeutic alliance. Through deep processing, my hope is that the unconscious may come forward and bring new realizations to help in growth, healing, and understanding while navigating your life circumstances. I believe that growth comes in the uncomfortable circumstances that we face in life.
(616) 816-5545 View (616) 816-5545
Photo of Jeffrey Reining, Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Jeffrey Reining
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LP, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I believe therapy is a collaborative relational opportunity for you to have the space you need to make the change you want.
I work with individuals, teens and couples dealing with issues including ineffective communication, spiritual struggles, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, high stress, perfectionism, divorce, fertility issues and more. If you are struggling with worrying too much, feeling down all the time, connecting with your young adult, unsure how to co-parent, need help with saving your relationship, or are just looking to make changes in your life, I can help. I create a safe and welcoming environment that starts with understanding and works toward change.
I believe therapy is a collaborative relational opportunity for you to have the space you need to make the change you want.
I work with individuals, teens and couples dealing with issues including ineffective communication, spiritual struggles, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, high stress, perfectionism, divorce, fertility issues and more. If you are struggling with worrying too much, feeling down all the time, connecting with your young adult, unsure how to co-parent, need help with saving your relationship, or are just looking to make changes in your life, I can help. I create a safe and welcoming environment that starts with understanding and works toward change.
(616) 201-3130 View (616) 201-3130
Photo of Kelly Kieft, Pre-Licensed Professional in Grand Rapids, MI
Kelly Kieft
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
My approach is relational and trauma-informed.
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
My approach is relational and trauma-informed.
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
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Photo of Sarah Riemersma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, 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 Linh Tran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Linh Tran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed therapist offering individual and relational care for teens, adults, and couples experiencing life transitions.
We live in a world of constant change. My goal as a therapist is to help you prepare for, embrace, and navigate change in its many forms. Whether you’re graduating from high school, dealing with work stress, preparing for marriage, or navigating conflict in relationships, I can help! As an immigrant, my lived experience is an important part of my approach to therapy. I love working with diverse populations because, like you, I have experienced the ups and downs of life. I understand the frustration of being misunderstood, the pain of being othered, and the realities of “being different.”
I am a trauma-informed therapist offering individual and relational care for teens, adults, and couples experiencing life transitions.
We live in a world of constant change. My goal as a therapist is to help you prepare for, embrace, and navigate change in its many forms. Whether you’re graduating from high school, dealing with work stress, preparing for marriage, or navigating conflict in relationships, I can help! As an immigrant, my lived experience is an important part of my approach to therapy. I love working with diverse populations because, like you, I have experienced the ups and downs of life. I understand the frustration of being misunderstood, the pain of being othered, and the realities of “being different.”
(616) 326-3897 View (616) 326-3897
Photo of Anna Gerard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Anna Gerard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
My practice is grounded in Relational Theory and I believe the most important component of successful treatment is having a strong relationship with your therapist.
I believe the most well-adjusted individuals have found contentment through the brave exploration of themselves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. For over fifteen years, I have worked with a variety of populations, including children, adolescents, families and adults. My experience supporting clients through Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, PTSD and OCD is vast. I also have specialized expertise working with adolescents and young adults.
My practice is grounded in Relational Theory and I believe the most important component of successful treatment is having a strong relationship with your therapist.
I believe the most well-adjusted individuals have found contentment through the brave exploration of themselves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. For over fifteen years, I have worked with a variety of populations, including children, adolescents, families and adults. My experience supporting clients through Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, PTSD and OCD is vast. I also have specialized expertise working with adolescents and young adults.
(616) 577-7890 View (616) 577-7890
Photo of Diane Schroeder, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Diane Schroeder, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
She considers all sides of your issue: emotional, behavioral, physical, relational, and/or spiritual.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of you living fulfilled and satisfied? Do anxious thoughts, stress, or past hurts control your life? Whatever is holding you back, Diane believes you don't have to stay that way - healing and growth are possible! Diane is a skilled problem solver who can help you figure out what's happening and collaborate with you to make change. She will strategize with you to put together a unique, customized plan (which may include Neurofeedback Brain Training), focused entirely on your specific situation and story.
She considers all sides of your issue: emotional, behavioral, physical, relational, and/or spiritual.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of you living fulfilled and satisfied? Do anxious thoughts, stress, or past hurts control your life? Whatever is holding you back, Diane believes you don't have to stay that way - healing and growth are possible! Diane is a skilled problem solver who can help you figure out what's happening and collaborate with you to make change. She will strategize with you to put together a unique, customized plan (which may include Neurofeedback Brain Training), focused entirely on your specific situation and story.
(616) 920-8135 View (616) 920-8135
Photo of Steven G Hamming, Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Steven G Hamming
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I work best with anxiety, depression, and relational issues.
"My style is warm, genuine and supportive. I am an interactive therapist and will work with you to discover and honor your inner strengths. I am supportive and listen to assist you to find solutions for new life directions, I believe strongly in the client/ therapist relationship."
I work best with anxiety, depression, and relational issues.
"My style is warm, genuine and supportive. I am an interactive therapist and will work with you to discover and honor your inner strengths. I am supportive and listen to assist you to find solutions for new life directions, I believe strongly in the client/ therapist relationship."
(616) 818-0477 View (616) 818-0477
Photo of Peter Cappon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Peter Cappon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
My approach to therapy is heavily influenced by evidence based methods, relational psychotherapy, and existential psychotherapy.
Life is complicated. Let's figure it out. Most of Peter’s clients start with a problem that sounds like “I just don’t understand why.... ”. They’re people who, like all of us, want to be a good parent, partner, friend, or employee/boss, but something is getting in the way. Peter employs a variety of evidence-based practices to help his clients get clarity and start moving forward again. Peter is therapist and founder of Mend Counseling. Check out the practice at www.mendcounselingmi.com.
My approach to therapy is heavily influenced by evidence based methods, relational psychotherapy, and existential psychotherapy.
Life is complicated. Let's figure it out. Most of Peter’s clients start with a problem that sounds like “I just don’t understand why.... ”. They’re people who, like all of us, want to be a good parent, partner, friend, or employee/boss, but something is getting in the way. Peter employs a variety of evidence-based practices to help his clients get clarity and start moving forward again. Peter is therapist and founder of Mend Counseling. Check out the practice at www.mendcounselingmi.com.
(616) 201-3629 View (616) 201-3629
Photo of Ashley Nichols Vanbemmelen, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Ashley Nichols Vanbemmelen
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I will journey with you as you share deep wounds, past trauma, relational pain, and any frustrations with making it through each day.
While life can bring great joy and success - it can also bring sadness and worry. It is in these times that a counselor can be most beneficial. I would be glad to provide you with a safe place to open up and explore the challenges you've faced. I believe that healing is possible and that life really can get better. Together, we can process how difficult life has been and we can begin to build hope and healing for your future.
I will journey with you as you share deep wounds, past trauma, relational pain, and any frustrations with making it through each day.
While life can bring great joy and success - it can also bring sadness and worry. It is in these times that a counselor can be most beneficial. I would be glad to provide you with a safe place to open up and explore the challenges you've faced. I believe that healing is possible and that life really can get better. Together, we can process how difficult life has been and we can begin to build hope and healing for your future.
(616) 818-0773 View (616) 818-0773
Photo of Micah J. White, Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Micah J. White
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I have worked in various university counseling and community mental health settings and have extensive experience treating individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, grief and loss, substance use concerns, and relational problems, among other clinical concerns.
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.
I have worked in various university counseling and community mental health settings and have extensive experience treating individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, grief and loss, substance use concerns, and relational problems, among other clinical concerns.
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 Leigh Ellis, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Leigh Ellis
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
One of our most important relationships is the one we have with ourselves. How we talk to ourselves, treat ourselves, and view ourselves impacts our daily living and the relationships around us. Therapy provides an opportunity to gain awareness of how we relate to ourselves and others. We begin to recognize our relational patterns and understand how these patterns were developed and are maintained. Through this self-understanding, we can begin to learn new ways of being with ourselves and others.
One of our most important relationships is the one we have with ourselves. How we talk to ourselves, treat ourselves, and view ourselves impacts our daily living and the relationships around us. Therapy provides an opportunity to gain awareness of how we relate to ourselves and others. We begin to recognize our relational patterns and understand how these patterns were developed and are maintained. Through this self-understanding, we can begin to learn new ways of being with ourselves and others.
(616) 205-9767 View (616) 205-9767
Photo of Ben Holdredge, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Ben Holdredge
Counselor, MA, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Everybody deals with relational challenges, whether it’s communication struggles with a loved one, wounds you experienced years ago or coming out to a family member. Some of these conversations can be especially challenging for people of faith or creed who feel like they are in conflict with their beliefs. Through counseling, you can figure out how to navigate challenging relationships and deal with the relational pain you’ve experienced throughout life.
Everybody deals with relational challenges, whether it’s communication struggles with a loved one, wounds you experienced years ago or coming out to a family member. Some of these conversations can be especially challenging for people of faith or creed who feel like they are in conflict with their beliefs. Through counseling, you can figure out how to navigate challenging relationships and deal with the relational pain you’ve experienced throughout life.
(616) 201-0725 View (616) 201-0725

See more therapy options for Grand Rapids

Relational Therapists

How does relational therapy work?

Relational therapy was developed by psychologist Jean Miller, whose ideas stressed that having strong connections with others encourages better health and well-being when compared with a lonely existence. Conversely, poor interpersonal relationships do not foster growth and learning. Relational therapy also encourages trust in others and patience with others, along with better communication and less conflict.

Is relational therapy evidence-based?

Relational therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating certain mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral or acceptance and commitment therapy. However, relational therapy uses techniques found in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as psychodynamic therapy, which are both well-studied with empirical research.

How long are people typically in relational therapy?

Clients may see improvement after a few weeks or months of therapy. Like cognitive behavioral therapy, relational therapy can reduce symptoms within 10 to 20 weeks, at 45 to 50 minutes once a week. But like any type of therapy, improvement depends on the person and the severity of the problem.

Does relational therapy work?

While no therapy type will work for everyone, some evidence suggests that this therapy can be effective. Relational therapy can help a person manage problematic relationships as well as the mental health conditions that accompany difficult relationships like depression or anxiety. This therapy type may offer benefits that are hard to measure but can be just as valuable—including feelings of higher self-worth or healthier connections with others.