Oak Park is a suburb of Detroit in the state of Michigan and it is nicknamed the “Family City.” The city is dedicated to community, culture, and commerce, with a farmer’s market, community center, putt putt golf course, 10 city parks, and many other amenities to bring the community together.
Having a close community is great for family living and as they say, “it takes a village to raise a child.” This means that having a close-knit community with people who care about everyone else is an excellent way to raise your children. Sometimes, you may have difficulty raising your child due to emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorders. In Oak Park, there are many trained therapists with experience in this and other mental health issues.
Kim Nelson
I see you as a valuable person. You are important to me, your family and in our world. I care about your wellbeing. I am here to assist you with developing healthy skills to cope with life stressors. There is help for everything. My name is Kim, it would be an honor to be someone on your support team. I am a Michigan based Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 11 years’ experience working with clients who express feelings associated with trauma, grief and/or substance abuse, addiction, as well as work with clients with co-occurring diagnosis that include, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Bi-polar Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PSTD, Suicide Ideation, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Personality Disorder, Attention Deficit Hypertension Disorder (ADHD) Family Conflict and Intimate Relationship Conflicts. My counseling experiences has included providing individual and family therapy in a home base setting, residential and using tele health services. The approach I have to therapy is client centered and solutions-oriented using a variety of modalities proven to provide exceptional care to clients. These modalities include, Person Centered Therapy, Mindfulness based Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Existential Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing. Moreover, to share there is not anything we cannot overcome in this life. We have the ability to change, improve, or enhance and discover new things about our self in an order to be happy, move forward and reach goals. In conclusion, I view my therapeutic relationship with my client as being a team effort, where there is mutual respect, communication, trust, collaboration, and compassion. I would like to be a person of support, an integral part of your support team. A person who inspires, empower, encourage and provide support. Together we can explore possibilities, build upon hope and confidence, problem solve and heal. SPECIALITIES Depression Domestic Violence Anxiety Anger Management Communication Low Self Esteem Decision Making Impulse Control Disorder Intimate Relationship Conflicts Family Conflicts Sexual Abuse Grief/Loss Suicide Ideation Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Clinical Approaches Person Centered Therapy Mindfulness based Therapy Cognitive Behavior Therapy Existential Therapy Structural Family Therapy Brief Therapy Motivational Interviewing Years of Experiences 11 years
Melissa Kaekel
I've been working as a counselor for over 15 years. My primary areas of focus are disability issues, workplace issues, and military/veteran issues. I have experience with: * Adjusting to a disability (recovering from accident, chronic pain, depression, unsure of what to do now) * Coping with changes caused by a disability (career change, change of work tasks, use of reasonable accommodations) * Workplace stress (conflicts with peers/supervisors, unhappy with career, etc) * Readjusting to civilian life after military service (home and/or work, stress from working with the VA for help) * Working through combat-related traumas My approach to counseling is to help you find value and meaning in the experience as you navigate a way forward. We create a safe space for you to share your feelings. I like to provide an assignment between sessions for you to complete to help reinforce a new change or skill or to assign a writing exercise to help you explore your feelings, but these are not required. We'll work to figure out how you'll benefit the most from our time together. I'm a liberal person who is comfortable working with people of all sexual orientations.
Dr. Kristi Hottenstein
Whether you’re experiencing difficult times or new adventures, I’m here to help. I have been a licensed professional counselor in the state of Michigan since 2009. I am the practitioner/owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, a member of the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association and was appointed to their board in 2021. I have a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a masters in Counseling from the University of La Verne and a bachelors in Sociology from Alma College. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and teens, as well as provide college selection coaching. I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach. I use a variety of counseling techniques, encouraging self-awareness and the acceptance of one’s own responsibilities in their personal journey. I believe the more we know ourselves, the better we can respond to situations.
Shijuan Kelly
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma, anger, low self esteem, grief, rejection, abandonment, and loneliness. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe each person has worth and should be treated respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe truth brings about healing. I believe in partnering with people to help mend the broken pieces. I enjoy working with teens and adults. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, strengths based, and bibliotherapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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 am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Shelly Goodman
I am a fully licensed Masters Level Clinician and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor for ten (10) years. I obtained my Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling at Michigan State University. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults and adults. I specialize in the following Anxiety, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Depression, Grief, PTSD and Substance abuse.
Elizabeth DelReal
I am an individual therapist working out of the state of Michigan. I worked for several years in an outpatient setting working with individuals who were struggling with issues of addiction. I am currently working with both addictions and mental health. I feel that it is important to establish an open, honest, trusting, relationship as we are working on issues that may be sensitive. I use a person center approach and tailor treatment to meet the individual needs.
Darlene Hawkins-Bland
I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Mackenzie Burt
Hello! I am a licensed social worker in Michigan with 3+ years of professional work experience post grad school. Most of this has been in the public school system as a School Social Worker and Behavioral Health Provider. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, family stress, LGBTQ+ related issues, trauma, abuse, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. I would love to help you discover those strengths and walk alongside you as you navigate the waters of life. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change, and I’m really glad you’re here.
Sonia Koenig
I am licensed in Michigan with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Heather Hale
I am licensed in Michigan with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
How to find counseling in Oak Park
Finding the best therapist close by in Oak Park can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Oak Park. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Oak Park, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Oak Park or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Oak Park area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Oak Park, elsewhere in Oakland, or in the greater state of Michigan.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Oak Park area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Oak Park therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Oak Park due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Oak Park may not take health insurance, some in the state of Michigan may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Michigan you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Oak Park, Michigan working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.
How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Oak Park above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Oak Park helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?
BetterHelp's verified Oak Park therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Oak Park therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Oak Park therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.
With a lot of people in MI, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 48237 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Oak Park counselor?
Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Oak Park licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.
Is mental health care and therapy worth it?
Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Oak Park, Michigan can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Oak Park has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Oak Park:
48237