If your life was a parade, how would it be? Those who have strong mental health may imagine it as a celebration. People who have mental health problems, or other problems, may imagine a parade of chaos. A counselor based in Lansing can help you form a parade that is worth remembering. 

Lansing is known for its parades. Parades can be a great way to celebrate and have fun. In life, you should celebrate, and one way you can do so is to speak to a counselor. Talk to one today and see what they can do for you. 

This is Sheryl Essenmacher's avatar and link to their profile

Sheryl Essenmacher

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
28 years of experience

Recently received my certification in DBT and Mindfulness! Counseling really does change lives. After practicing for over 27 years I can attest to the fact that it works when the foundation of trust is present between client and therapist. I have an undergrad degree in psychology and masters in clinical social work, however, experience is key. Life offers its own degree of sorts as well, and I have learned that clients "do not care how much you know until they know how much you care!" I care and it shows...so I have been told. My personal experience is extensive -- providing insight into most issues of life including addiction, trauma, sexual abuse, blended families, depression, women's issues, and chronic mental illnesses. I was a director of a psychiatric hospital, tutored student interns, worked as a probation officer, mentored juveniles within the court system, and counseled the geriatric population experiencing adjustment disorders to name a few areas. As a result of my eclectic experience, I opened my own practice after 18 years. My private practice focuses on adults and all the issues that come with relationships, children, day to day living, aging, and learning to love the self that you are. Cognitive behavioral therapy offers understanding of past experiences and this is key to change. I challenge you to be all that you can be! Come and learn and grow! And I welcome the opportunity to assist you as I have so many others!

Get started View profile
This is Debra Arseneaux's avatar and link to their profile

Debra Arseneaux

Offering therapy in MI
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
20 years of experience

I have been a therapist for over 17 years, and have had the privilege to serve a very wide demographic of individuals and groups as an owner of a private practice as well as executive coach. While an owner of a private practice, I trained in many areas of specialty, so I could provide the best quality therapy for anyone that was introduced to our clinic, and especially those that my associate therapists were not trained to serve and help. My areas of specialties include PTSD, Sexual Abuse Recovery, Depression, Anxiety, Couples Therapy and Relationship Issues, Grief and Loss, Sexual Issues and Dysfunction, Addiction Issues, Personality and Mood Disorders, Self-harm and Eating Disorders, Spiritual Issues, Addiction, Mediation, Career Counseling and Life Coaching. I thoroughly enjoy what I do, and consider it a privilege to walk alongside someone through sometimes the most difficult time in their life. It is an honor to be trusted to encourage and provide tools to help people transform their lives. Both reactive therapy (helping people recover and thrive in life) and proactive coaching (helping people achieve their goals) are enjoyable for me, so no matter what your goals are, if you feel I am a fit for you, I will do my best to help you achieve those goals as quickly as possible. I work from a brief therapy model, but will extend the treatment plan as agreed and needed if other issues present. I look forward to meeting you and helping you move forward from a place of feeling "stuck" to achieving wellness. Let's get started!

Get started View profile
This is Ruth Westfall's avatar and link to their profile

Ruth Westfall

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I have worked for over 20 years as a therapist specializing in trauma and working with victims of crime. More recently, at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, I was working at a public health center with a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and was able to see the long-term effects of trauma and stress. This can affect people in so many areas of their lives including physical health, mental health, education, employment, substance abuse, and relationships. These concerns can follow people for decades. During the pandemic, we especially see the need to take care of ourselves on the emotional, spiritual and physical levels. Both Anxiety and Depression have increased by at least 25%! So many people are struggling right now. Please know that you are not alone!! There are many ways that we can work together to learn skills to manage these issues. I truly enjoy helping people realize their strengths to heal in a positive way.

Get started View profile
This is John Shovels's avatar and link to their profile

John Shovels

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed counselor in Michigan who has been practicing social work for 30 years and with over 15 years of counseling experience working with people who are recovering from life stressors, mental illness and drug/alcohol use. I have worked with people experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, drug/alcohol use, and personality disorders. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is interactive, warm, and engaging. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion while being sensitive to individual needs. I believe that people strive to be their best and that labels can be stigmatizing. My approach combines motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral, and solution focused approaches. I approach my treatment planning and dialogue with people in a non-judgmental manner. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Alexandra Boehm's avatar and link to their profile

Alexandra Boehm

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Hello! Welcome! I am glad you're here! My name is Alexandra Boehm, although I typically introduce myself as Alex. I am a clinical social worker licensed in the state of Michigan. I graduated with my MSW from Saginaw Valley State University in 2019 and have been practicing in the field of social work and counseling since 2019. I have experience in the inpatient and outpatient mental health settings with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship concerns, infertility, and family concerns just to name a few. I believe that all of us can benefit from having an outside source to share and process our challenges with! By sharing with someone outside of your close circle of friends or loved ones, I will be able to provide additional support and a different perspective to your presenting problem or challenge. My approach to therapy is person-centered, meaning that I meet you where you are with your current challenges while providing a safe space for you to share your truths. I recognize that sharing your personal truths can be very difficult, and here you have a space where you feel can be accepted and understood without judgment, while also working together to develop the tools to address these truths and the challenges they may present outside of therapy. Again, I am very happy that you've taken this step in your journey! Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions!

Get started View profile
This is Sara Rayes's avatar and link to their profile

Sara Rayes

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
4 years of experience

I completed my Masters of Social Work at Wayne State University. I am a fully licensed clinical social worker. I have been working with individuals, couples and families since 2018. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but have experience with other therapy styles as well. I have worked with people who experience MDD, GAD, BPD, ADHD, PTSD, DMDD and symptoms that may not meet full diagnostic criteria but are still looking for therapy. I aim to provide client-led, strengths-based services. I want you to feel welcomed, comfortable and in charge of your mental health. I can provide structured sessions with home-work to complete between sessions or more relaxed and flexible appointments that do not follow a set agenda. Your health and safety is my number one concern. Looking forward to meeting you!

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Gloria Aquino Sosa 's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Gloria Aquino Sosa

Offering therapy in MI
License: Ph.D., LPC-MI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
24 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Michigan with over 25 years of experience working as a psychotherapist, academic and personal counselor, and life strategist. I am a musician who has played in working rock bands for the last 16 years I have worked with clients who have experienced career disillusionment, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, career challenges, general anxiety and social awkwardness, and feelings of emptiness. I have also worked with many who have experienced and survived physical trauma and/or emotional abuse, as well as severe and persistent mental illness. My therapy style is sincere, person-centered, authentic, and interactive. I have primarily served BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and Bilingual (Spanish) persons navigating many issues including immigration (both documented and undocumented persons), complex systems of oppression and discrimination, and intercultural issues. I've also worked with persons who are in adulthood traversing early and mid-life changes and problems of everyday life. The cornerstone of any human interaction is mutual respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and focusing on those will help us move toward self-awareness to improve how we face and address the challenges of this ever-changing world. My therapeutic approach combines relational cultural therapies with strengths-based, narrative, humanistic, and psychodynamic therapies. We will work together to create a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs and goals for growth and awareness. Taking the first step toward leading a more fulfilling and gratifying life takes courage. You are taking that step by reaching out and seeking a thought partner to work through the areas you are most ready to address, and I am ready to work with you towards finding more of your inner power and strength. I look forward to hearing from you so we can get started on your personal journey!

Get started View profile
This is Lorraine Bennett's avatar and link to their profile

Lorraine Bennett

Offering therapy in MI
License: TLLP, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am a native of Detroit, Michigan. I migrated to Grand Rapids to attend Aquinas College, where I earned my bachelors degree in Sociology. I have been instrumental in various agencies and community-based programs, promoting self-awareness, personal independence, and resilience by teaching psycho-educational groups in the Inner City of Grand Rapids, Michigan. I am also the founder of Celebrate Life Foundation, LLC, and CEO of Life Without Flaws, LLC. I began Celebrate Life Foundation, a non-profit organization, in 2005 to raise awareness about practical ways to create an exemplary constitution for good health and to live a life worth celebrating. With education and life experiences, I understand the fundamental quality of taking a comprehensive approach to life challenges by integrating and addressing spiritual, physical, and mental health issues from a holistic perspective. I currently work in my private practice, Life Without Flaws, where I continue that work in the community through therapy and consulting services providing the support people need to thrive. My path of development continues to fuel my passion for personal growth in all aspects of life for all people.

Get started View profile
This is Bernell Hornsby's avatar and link to their profile

Bernell Hornsby

Offering therapy in MI
LGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Scott Shaw's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Scott Shaw

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan (LPC & LMSW), Connecticut (LPC), Virginia (LPC), Texas (LPC), South Carolina (LPC Telehealth), and Florida (LMHC-Telehealth) with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile

How to find counseling in Lansing

Finding the best therapist close by in Lansing 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 Lansing. 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 Lansing, 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 Lansing 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 Lansing 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 Lansing, elsewhere in Ingham, 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 Lansing area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lansing 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 Lansing 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 Lansing 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 Lansing, 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 Lansing 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 Lansing 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 Lansing 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:

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 Lansing 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 Lansing 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 48911 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 Lansing 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 Lansing 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 Lansing, 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.

Lansing 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Lansing.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Lansing:

48901, 48906, 48908, 48909, 48910, 48911, 48912, 48913, 48915, 48916, 48918, 48919, 48921, 48922, 48924, 48929, 48930, 48933, 48937, 48951, 48956, 48980

Popular cities near Lansing, MI

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist