Traverse City is known as the cherry capital of the United States because of the millions of pounds of cherries they produce every year. The people celebrate their heritage and hard work every year during the Cherry Festival held in the city. Even though there are many things to celebrate, no one is impervious to life’s troubles.

If you don’t feel so sweet in the cherry capital, then speaking with a mental health professional about the problems you are experiencing is a good way to ensure you can enjoy all the wonders and joys of life. If your life feels shaken up, and you don’t know what to do, then seeking guidance from a qualified counselor may just be the cherry on top.

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Shawna Boomgaard

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW,Ed.S. ,ACTP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

ABOUT ME Hello! My name is Shawna and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Advanced Certified Trauma Practitioner with over fifteen years of experience providing therapy services. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: educational settings, intensive outpatient care, managing a private practice and organizations. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma and relationship challenges from individual, group and family work. Originally from Seattle, I moved to Detroit, MI to continue my education and raise a family. I received my graduate degree in Clinical Social Work at Wayne State University in Detroit and my Educational Specialist post-graduate degree in Educational Leadership at Oakland University where I am currently a student in the PhD. program. My approach to therapy is client centered: clients are the experts on their lives and determine the direction and depth of therapy. Through a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens, I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I assist clients in exploring relationships among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to aid in discovering dysfunctional thought patterns leading to self-destructive behaviors and beliefs. Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I support clients through developing skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation with the goal of moving clients towards a life involving the capacity for experiencing joy and freedom. Outside of my work as a therapist, I practice mindfulness to help me maintain balance. I also enjoy reading, biking and spending time with my family and pets traveling. SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Relationship issues Self esteem Depression Coping with life changes Also experienced in: Addictions , LGBT , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Intimacy-related issues , Parenting issues , Anger management , Career difficulties , Bipolar disorder , ADHD Years of Experience: 15

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Jennifer Alder

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Hello! My name is Jennifer Alder, LMSW. I have a BA Degree in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. I have been a fully licensed social worker for over 7 years and practice out of the state of Michigan. I have enjoyed working in the mental health field for 15+ years in numerous capacities. I have successfully worked with all ages from birth-end of life assisting with many difficult transitions, challenges, and uncomfortable moments with those I have had the pleasure to work with. I regularly receive feedback about my sincere presentation and how I speak to people like people not like "clients". I have over 5 years experience working with children and families in the child welfare system within foster care and adoption both with birth parents as well as foster/adoptive parents and their children. I have worked in a combined partial/inpatient psychiatric facility for over 5 years as well offering individual and group therapy to both adolescents and adults in the areas of general psych, trauma, eating disorders, and addiction. I have worked as a therapist with children suspected of being sexual abused with a local children's advocacy center. I have also worked with a groundbreaking organization in the community helping to assist seniors with aging in place and facing end of life issues, while trying to avoid them going into the ER and hospital or nursing facilities unnecessarily. I have worked a great deal with each of my clients as individuals as well as their family systems which support them. I enjoy using a person centered mixture of CBT, DBT, ACT, MI, & art therapies based on the needs of the individual I am working with. I have done this work both in person as well as virtual during the unprecedented season of Covid 19 which has caused many of us to change our modalities and think outside of the box in order to meet the needs of those we serve. It is never easy to acknowledge it is time for a change in our lives . This need arises from a variety of sources and for many reasons. Sometimes we need assistance with navigating our emotions or processing what is occurring in our lives while other times we may need more guidance with finding our direction on where to even begin. I am very hopeful that together we can walk through any obstacles you may experience and help to find a way to overcome them and gain more support and success in your personal goals. I commend you for your courage and commitment in working to improve your self and I would feel very honored to assist you in this process and walk beside you throughout your very personal journey!

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Dr. Cheri Anderson

Offering therapy in MI
License: PhD, LPC, ICGC II
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
28 years of experience

My name is Dr. Cheri Anderson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan with over 20 years of experience as a mental health psychotherapist and an International Certified Gambling Counselor. I have a PhD in Counseling and Clinical Supervision from Wayne State University. I am trained to use Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) with trauma clients. I provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing emotional pain. I also provide Christian counseling by addressing emotional pain from a Biblical perspective- if requested by the client. I work with clients who are struggling with a variety of issues, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, low-self esteem, technology addictions, gambling addiction, marital issues, boundary issues, relationship issues, anger management, occupational burnout, post-traumatic stress, adjusting to college, conflict resolution, and life after COVID-19, I use a cadre of therapeutic modalities: client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, & EMDR. I meet clients where they are and I provide compassionate and caring emotional support. I provide clients with personalized treatment plans that help them reach their intrapersonal goals that lead towards emotional healing. Please keep in mind that emotional healing begins when you share your story. I look forward to hearing your story and helping you along your journey to emotional healing.

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Peter Harvey

Offering therapy in MI
License: M.A.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I have been a therapist for many years. I have worked in private practice with individuals, couples, and families. My approach is to present myself as a real person who has been through his own life challenges who also has professional training and experience. I use a variety of therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, family therapy, and others. I choose the ones that seems to best fit the client and the situation. I think that developing a relationship with a client can help promote trust and confidence. I’ve gotten great satisfaction in helping numbers of individuals, couples, and families to move forward and thrive. Most recently, my work has been focused on individuals with depression, anxiety, and challenging life changes.

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Terri Colbert

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
29 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 29 years of professional work experience. I received my MSW from Wayne State University. Over the past 29 years, I have worked in foster care, juvenile and adult justice systems, Hospice, adjunct professor, and public education settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, 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. 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.

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Alisa Denilson Ikenwude

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
12 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Michigan with over 12 years of professional work experience. I graduated in 2010 with a Masters degree in Counseling. I have worked primarily with women within the judicial system as well as non-profit organizations. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also specialize in trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared within a judgment free zone. I adopted the philosophy, from my mentor, that people are precious. Every person is unique and created for a purpose. I do not believe anyone is a failure. All humans make mistakes but our past does not have to determine our future. So, together we will work to focus on creating a better future. Taking this first step of acknowledging you need help to move forward to a healthier and happier self can take courage, and I am so proud of you for getting started. I will be here to support you through the process. Please take a moment to review my calendar and select a time that works for you. In the event you do not see a slot that you prefer, I may be available for sessions outside of my normal scheduled times, upon request. I look forward to our journey together!

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Michael Towns-Wheatley

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia and Michigan with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

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Kristen Shepherd

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a 2010 graduate of the University of Michigan School of Social Work. I spent the first 10 years of my career working in high needs school settings. While I loved that role, my real passion is in working with individuals and couples to develop strong therapeutic relationships. Working with couples is especially rewarding as I get to see two people who are struggling learn how to do the work to improve their communication, their intimacy and their enjoyment of the relationship with each other. I work with all ages and situations. I see each client as an individual on their own personal journey and I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet my clients where they are in life and work with them to identify areas where they might need help evolving. I provide trauma focused care and I am passionate about helping clients identify traumatic psychological wounds that may be holding them back from becoming the best version of themselves. Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is critical to a successful outcome. I look forward to joining you on your own journey.

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Keith Welsh

Offering therapy in MI
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
23 years of experience

PLEASE NOTE: Presently I am only available for unlimited messaging but am not available for live appointments except very sporadically when I have cancellations week to week with my full caseload of clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist. My primary specialties are treating general and specific anxiety, panic attacks, low self-esteem, "imposter syndrome," anxiety which has led to depression, and confidence issues. I am also well versed in coaching, relationship dynamics, parenting, and family history complications. I am a very solution focused therapist with the notion of helping you achieve emotional wellness and happiness in your life as soon as possible. I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice at Shippensburg University where I graduated Magna Cum Laude and as the Distinguished Military Graduate. I served six years as a Commissioned Officer in the US Army and later spent eleven years in the private sector employed by behavioral health companies. I earned a Masters in Social Work from Temple University, entered private practice and practiced traditional talk therapy including cognitive behavioral interventions, marriage and relationship counseling, family counseling, group therapy, and EMDR therapy.​ I later spent two years working as a therapist and administrator for an International Mission agency based in the UK. While living, traveling and working in fourteen countries on five continents, I gained experience with mental health interventions across cultures in treating trauma, depression, anxiety and PTSD. ​During this time I evolved my practice into specializing in EMDR Therapy which I have practiced now for 22 years and virtually since 2016. In 2018 I became a Senior Executive Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University. I am honored to serve our all clients including Veterans as I am also a Veteran myself and enjoy serving people from all walks of life. I continue my clinical practice virtually from Pennsylvania and Delaware serving clients all over the United States and around the world, having treated clients on every continent so far except Antarctica!

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michael schneider

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, depression, & coping with life changes. I focus on helping people change themselves for the better. I use specific, short-term, solution-focused treatment techniques based on insight and behavioral change. I work with a wide range of presenting problems and mood disorders including depression / grief, anxiety/phobias, anger management, adjustment, bipolar and obsessive-compulsive disorders. I focus on rapport and utilization of a client's strengths as a therapeutic foundation. My role is to facilitate real change in people by helping them to hear what they need to hear, in a way that they are able to accept it, even if it is difficult. This acceptance of reality is critical to creating permanent positive changes in people's lives. I believe that the mind and body are deeply connected, and that optimal mental health cannot be achieved without proper nutrition and physical health. I also believe in the power of the conscious as well as the unconscious mind to relieve symptoms and make lasting changes.

How to find counseling in Traverse City

Finding the best therapist close by in Traverse City 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 Traverse City. 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 Traverse City, 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 Traverse City 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 Traverse City 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 Traverse City, elsewhere in Grand Traverse, 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 Traverse City area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Traverse City 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 Traverse City 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 Traverse City 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 Traverse City, 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 Traverse City 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 Traverse City 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 Traverse City 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 Traverse City 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 Traverse City 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 49685 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 Traverse City 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 Traverse City 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 Traverse City, 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.

Traverse City 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 Traverse City.

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

49684, 49685, 49686, 49696

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