This is Pamela Knaffle's avatar and link to their profile

Pamela Knaffle

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

Hello! My name is Pam Knaffle and I am a licensed Master Social Worker in the State of Michigan. I obtained my undergraduate degree in social work from Madonna University in Livonia, Michigan in 2007. In 2009, I obtained my graduate degree from Michigan State University in Lansing, Michigan. During my 11 years of counseling, I have worked with clients from 0-100 years of age. What that means is that I have worked in a variety of settings including: in-home services for early childhood emotional and mental health, adult medical in home health, school based services, group home residential services for foster children, nursing home medical social work, domestic violence and private practice which included all age ranges and severity of clinical issues. Most of my experience includes working with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, career challenges, mood disorders, stress, grief and loss, and learning disabilities. My approach to therapy is client centered. I personally want to express my gratitude to you for acknowledging and accepting you are dealing with something that is out of your control and seeking the assistance to move forward. Admitting and seeking help are two of the hardest decisions someone can make, and you are a strong person for taking this step. Being a client centered therapist means you (the client) are the expert on your own life and determine the direction and depth of therapy. I specialize in multiple modalities that are strengths-based and solution-focused. Some of the modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Using the techniques from these modalities, I assist clients in exploring their feelings, behaviors (how they are helping or aiding in their dysfunctional thoughts and destructive actions and beliefs), relationships, grief and loss, stress and learning disabilities. As clients go through their therapy, they will learn mindfulness, relaxation techniques, emotion regulation, and empowerment of their own lives. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy spending time with my husband, two daughters and dog. Extra-curricular activities include power boating, basketball and traveling. Again, I want to express my sincere appreciation for you in taking this first step to get back to a healthy emotional and mental status. I provide a warm, non-judgmental environment and am easy to talk too. I look forward to working with and guiding you towards your emotional and mental health goals. Specialties: • Stress • Anxiety • Depression • Self-Esteem • Coping with life changes

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Leigh Wayna

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW,QMHP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
18 years of experience

I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Michigan with 16 years of experience working in multiple varied environments. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I have also had a great deal of experience in crisis counseling, counseling for individuals experiencing mental illness, and substance abuse counseling. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe wholeheartedly in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person centered, psycho-dynamic and motivational interviewing. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am comfortable working with clients who are seeking help with BDSM and "kink" concerns. (I would be considered a "kink aware" counselor). It takes courage to seek support for a more fulfilling and happy 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!

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Roxsanna Stenuis

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
20 years of experience

Aanii, Welcome to Better Help. I’m honored to be considered to walk with you on your personal healing journey. My name is Roxsanna Stenuis and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Michigan. I completed my Master’s of Social Work at Michigan State University. My clinical internships were in Domestic Violence and Geriatric Assessment. Upon graduation I directed a Child Abuse Program within a Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse setting. Additionally I’ve worked providing ER crisis intervention and psychiatric screening. I spent the remaining 15 years providing outpatient therapy within Community Mental Heath. Throughout my career I’ve worked and treated a variety of mental health conditions; with specific expertise in Mood, Anxiety, Borderline Personality and Substance Use Disorders . In addition, I have extensive experience treating past trauma. My theoretical perspective is eclectic, pulling primarily from Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy’s and Mindfulness-based Interventions.Over my career I have had the opportunity to be trained extensively in CBT, DBT, MI, SA, trauma, and have found no one intervention fits all. I personally believe finding the right therapist is like finding a new pair of jeans. You may know your size but each jean brand will have a different fit. Therapists, too, are similar. We may all have the same degree, trained in the same interventions, however we each will “fit” differently. If you should choose to explore our fit, previous clients have appreciated my genuineness, dependability, trustworthiness, and warmth. The most important component to effective therapy is the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental, empathetic alliance whereby you can identify, explore and process your thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I can sincerely commit to being fully present in the moment with you. I will communicate in a genuine, easy manner avoiding diagnostic terms and medical jargon. I’m open to direct feedback and encourage a collaborative approach to therapy. I strongly believe we are the experts of our own lives and will, therefore, seek to maintain a supportive non-directive approach. If you want to look at my schedule please click on Better Help. I look forward to talking to you.

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Janet LaDere

Offering therapy in MI
License: MSW/LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed master Social Worker who has been in private practice for 5 + years. I have enjoyed working with a variety of clients from children to seniors. I work in my office and virtually. I use many different techniques and modes of therapy. client centered, DBT, Mindfulness, CBT, TFBCT just to name a few. I use motivational interviewing and listening during my sessions. I believe that each person has the ability to heal themselves with a little help and encouragement. I believe in treating others as I would want them to treat me. I do not believe in yelling or belittling individuals nor do I expect everyone to be the same. I work with Gender Dysphoria and have much enjoyed seeing these clients improve their lives with the support and encouragement of myself and others. I do not believe everyone fits in to a one size fits all category so everyone will have their own plan of action and support. I look forward to working with everyone who would like to work with me. I will be here to help guide you but I will not tell you how to do it this is your journey and you will have to do some work while healing and making your life what you want it to be. I have been working with clients that have been diagnosed with Gender Dysphoria for 3+ years. I believe that everyone is made as an individual and that you cannot force changes that do not work for them. Each individual is unique and special and I like to help them find their way to discovering that special uniqueness. I will never look down at anyone coming to me for help nor will I judge anyone for who they are.

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Dianne Mishra

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Parenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
23 years of experience

Hello! My name is Dianne Mishra. I am Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the State of Michigan with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, children, teens, and families. I earned my Bachelors degree in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Michigan and my Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from Florida State University. During this past year, we have all suffered greatly due to the pandemic. I want to help in any way that I can during this time in your life journey. Whether it is adjusting to home schooling your children, dealing with grief and loss issues, parenting issues, career changes, adjusting to parenthood, dealing with infertility issues, relationship issues, or just needing someone to talk to, I am here! I take a strength-based solution-focused approach to counseling. I want to empower you to make any changes that you feel need to be made in your life and to inspire you to accomplish things that you never thought you could or were afraid to try! Your personal situation and goals will guide what approach we will take during our sessions. Please know that if you choose me as your counselor, I will work my hardest to help address the issues that brought you to BetterHelp and increase the quality of your life!

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Jennifer Frohock

Offering therapy in MI
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am currently a licensed professional counselor in Michigan with over 20 years of experience working as a school counselor, family therapist and counseling supervisor. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including educational/career goals, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting and marital concerns, career challenges, grief/loss and motivational/life purpose goals. My therapy style is inclusive, warm and interactive. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and without the use of harsh labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and solution-focused therapy; tailoring our sessions and treatment plan to meet individual needs and goals. I believe we can all benefit from being heard and supported. Seeking help to live a more fulfilled, purposeful and happier life takes courage. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you on your journey. Best to you, Jennifer

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Jessie Thompson

Offering therapy in MI
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am a clinical licensed therapist in Michigan with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens, families and individuals who have experienced trauma including sexual, physical, spiritual and emotional abuse. My expertise is in childhood trauma and its impacts on the brains and bodies of human beings as grow. Even as adults, we still hold an image of an inner child deep inside. If we experienced a less than ideal childhood, it can manifest in many ways such as struggles in forming relationships (with our own children, an intimate partner or close friend), trust, safety, anxiety, depression, addiction, self harm and suicidal thoughts. I use many different types of therapeutic approaches such as Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Rapid Desensitization (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Expressive Arts in order to assist you on your healing process. Your experiences are valuable and unique, and your treatment plan should be as well in order to best meet your needs. Your decision to overcome whatever adversity you have been faced with is courageous. It will not always be easy, but I am honored to walk with you on this important journey.

This is Justin Kuhl's avatar and link to their profile

Justin Kuhl

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, anger management, & depression. I am a licensed and ordained pastor in the Missionary Church denomination. I believe in the authority of scripture and believe that God's word gives us everything we need to find spiritual and mental peace and health. I use counseling techniques to help communicate those truths and bring your life in line with traditional scriptural Christian beliefs. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to help you find Strength for today and Hope for tomorrow.

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Deshara Mckinney

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed clinical Social Worker as well as a Certified Advanced Addiction Counselor with 15 years of professional work experience. I specialize in helping clients with coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, relationship issues, anger management, increase 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Jillian Dossett's avatar and link to their profile

Jillian Dossett

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 7 years of professional work experience. My experience includes working in a school setting as a School Social Worker. I’ve worked with children ages 5-26. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Sanford

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Sanford 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 Sanford 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 Sanford 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 Sanford, 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 Sanford 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 Sanford 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 Sanford 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 Sanford 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 Sanford 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 48657 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 Sanford 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 Sanford 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 Sanford, 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.

Sanford 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Sanford.

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

48657

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