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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Jennifer Plesz

Offering therapy in MI
License: M.A.,CRC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
5 years of experience

I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping her clients overcome their individual obstacles and find new ways to reach their goals. Having overcome my own life-altering obstacles, coupled with my training and experience as a Counselor, have given me the tools to help others do the same. I have a Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling from Wayne State University, and several years of experience working with people from all backgrounds. I offer individual, couples, and family services to people of all ages. I specialize in depression, anxiety, relationships, communication, mood disorders, career and academic, stress, change or life, grief, and adjustment counseling

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Amy Klein

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW,CAADC,Reiki Master, Yoga 200 hr teacher
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
13 years of experience

I have been doing individual, group, and family therapy since I received my MSW degree in 2007, but I've worked in the field of social work since right out of high school. In my therapy practice, I draw from a wide variety of personal and career experiences which have taught me to hold emotional space and cultivate safety and unconditional positive regard for my clients. I began as a VISTA volunteer at a YWCA on the border of Detroit. After completing my BSW at Wayne State University I was hired into a program that provided in-home family therapy and case management for parents that were involved with CPS. Then I joined the Peace Corps and served in Kingston, Jamaica as a youth-at-risk volunteer. I completed my MSW degree at Western Michigan University after I returned to the US, and have worked in a variety of settings as a clinical therapist since then, including a Native tribe, a medium-security prison, rural schools, and within a medical clinic setting. I also teach yoga and am a reiki master, and I practice Native Tradition. My current perspective on counseling is that humanity is going through a massive evolution of consciousness. I am an empath which also informs my therapeutic approach. I enjoy blending scientific facts and ancient wisdom with storytelling when working with my clients. I live in a cottage in the woods, close to Lake Michigan, and I spend as much time in nature as possible. I care deeply about people and while I have many hobbies, mental health therapy has always been my passion. My family is full of mental illness, addiction, narcissism, and abuse and as a child I dreamed of being happy and helping others find their happiness too. I believe we all have an inner compass that can guide us. Mindfulness, CBT techniques, yoga, philosophy, art, music, and humor make up the majority of my approach with clients in an attempt to spark that connection with your inner compass.

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Teresa Fowler

Offering therapy in MI
License: MA ,LPC,CRC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
18 years of experience

My name is Teresa and I am a licensed professional counselor end a certified rehabilitation counselor in Michigan with over 16 years of experience. I have worked with young adults, families, and older adults with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, disability-related barriers, hearing loss, and other societal, vocational, and environmental stressors. These issues often impact us on a daily basis and may, at times, feel debilitating. Asking for help is not always easy, however, we are all interdependent and need support sometimes. I believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every person. I approach counseling with a holistic integrative mindset that addresses the entire person - body, mind, and spirit. Healing is a journey and I will offer support by establishing and maintaining an open, honest, supportive relationship with clients. I utilize a solution-focused, strength-based approach to address your unique needs. My counseling style is compassionate, person-centered, patient, and empathic. I am committed to creating a supportive environment based on collaboration, action-oriented interventions, and honest feedback. Active listening is the key to a successful counselor/client relationship. You will be treated with respect and unconditional positive regard while working with me. My eclectic approach and your plan for success will focus on your individualized strengths, resources, interests, needs, priorities, and improving your quality of life. My goal is to provide you with a safe and supportive environment, develop a compassionate relationship, and increase your resiliency. I look forward to meeting with you and working with you to achieve your goals.

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Patrick Murphy

Offering therapy in MI
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Michigan-based outpatient therapist who has been in the field since 2018. I work with clients of all ages, who predominantly struggle with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and anger, and I do so from a trauma-informed perspective. I accomplish this by coming alongside my clients as a fellow traveler on the road to wellness. As we explore these and other symptoms together, I assist my clients with developing a personalized array of tools to overcome their mental health challenges. Therapy is only effective as an equal partnership. You are the world's leading expert on yourself. It is my job as your therapist to be in your corner, helping you address these challenges with all the knowledge, research, education, and skill that I can provide. If you feel ready to embark on this road, I am ready to come alongside and help.

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Enid Ali Reed

Offering therapy in MI
Relationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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!

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Dr. Carol Schwartz

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesCoping with life changes
33 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, & coping with life changes. I believe that you and I working together can make solving most issues easy. But it is necessary to take the first step to sign up for therapy. I have had experience with people new to therapy and those people who have had years of therapy. Therapy is a positive approach to any problem. Although I have had experience with many issues, anxiety and depression are areas where zi have worked with people of all ages from children to older adults. I believe that it is easy to talk to me and my clients have had much success in solving their issues. So I hope you will sign up and so we can meet.

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Elaine Noland-Sepko

Offering therapy in MI
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Marriage Couples and Family Counseling, with an emphasis in Crisis and Trauma Counseling. My experience ranges with many different age groups, an I have worked with a diverse client base over the past 12 years. I started off working with Survivors of Sexual Trauma, Domestic Violence, and Human Trafficking. I have worked with children, adolescents, Teens, young adults, adults and the Elderly, providing Individual Therapy, Family Therapy and Couples Therapy, with extensive experience in Group Therapy for adolescents and adults. As well as individual and group therapy for adolescents with substance abuse/addictions. I am currently adding in a focus of Perinatal Mental Health. As I have continued in this field, I have educated myself as much as possible to be able to work with different cultures, races and minorities in order to better serve more populations of individuals who may not have been able to receive the help and the support they need. My Theoretical Foundation is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, however, I integrate other Theories and interventions in order to meet the individual needs of clients. These include Narrative Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Social Learning Theory and Gottman's Sound Relationship House Theory. I am trained in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My approach is Client Centered, with my focus being on the Client and the Client's needs. I work with the Client to identify goals, and work together with the the client to achieve these goals. As a Therapist, I listen, I help identify challenges, process feelings, and help problem solve and then Client takes action to create change. This is not easy, and trusting this process can be difficult, and I never ask my clients to do anything that I would do myself. I am a trauma survivor and because of my experience, I chose to be therapist in order to help others, because it can be difficult to understand the feelings that accompany trauma unless you have lived through a traumatic event yourself. My hope is to create a safe space where Clients can seek help, feel listened to, feel respected, and hopefully find answers and learn new things to help them cope with the challenges that they have been facing. I am flexible throughout the day with my work schedule which can change from day to day. I do not work on the weekends, and will not be able to answer any messages until Monday. Please let me know what works with your schedule and I will do my best to accommodate you. In some cases I may be able to book sessions the same week of enrollment. Not always and appointments may be a week out. I do have set times in the evenings and weekends for appointments that are consistent. I check my messages multiple times throughout the day, and will respond as quickly as my schedule allows. At times I am very busy and cannot answer right away. I will answer as soon as I can, generally within 24-48 hours. Please know that when I respond, it does not mean I am available for a back and forth chat in the portal. I am responding as quickly as I can between sessions and I am not able to answer each message immediately. If you have an emergency please reach out to your local services for immediate assistance. As I am not able to respond to emergencies or immediate needs. I want to make sure you have the help you need right away.

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Antoinette Ali

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, 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. 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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Kelly Hayes

Offering therapy in MI
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan with over 30 years of experience working as a child and family counselor, Special Education Social Worker, Behavioral Intervention Specialist, and life coach. I have worked with clientele with a wide range of concerns including, early childhood trauma leading to: relationship challenges, abandonment and attachment issues, as well as anxiety, depression, fear/guilt. marital issues/concerns, and issues relating to substance use. My experience has also centered around clientele living with OCD, AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Delays, Emotional Impairments, Behavioral challenges due to Learning Disabilities, School phobias, and severe aggression. My therapy approach focuses on building positive, strength-based relationships. I believe in creating an open, honest and direct line of communication with active listening and encouragement to share thoughts and feelings in a safe non-threatening environment. Together we will create an individualized plan tailored to meet your specific needs. Kelly

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Sarah Feeley

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
6 years of experience

Congratulations on making it this far! You have already taken the first steps to make a change, and I’m proud of you. My intent as your therapist is to provide a nonjudgemental and optimistic safe space. The plan is to work together on identifying and addressing your mental health concerns. I will meet you where you are at in your journey, and build from there. Life can be overwhelmingly difficult, and can sometimes even feel impossible to manage. We will work together to navigate these feelings, increase coping skills, and reduce symptoms utilizing a person-centered, and strengths-based perspective. I am licensed in Michigan, and attended Wayne State University in Detroit for both my undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work. I have 6 years of professional experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, self-esteem, trauma and abuse, anger management, emotional dysregulation, & parenting issues. If you are struggling with any of these, I may be the right fit for you. I utilize an eclectic approach including aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT), & motivational interviewing. I also provide clients with resources and tools as we continue with your journey, as my ultimate goal as your therapist is to help you help yourself.

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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 49684 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 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 Traverse City.

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

49684, 49685, 49686, 49696

Popular cities near Traverse City, MI

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