For those seeking online therapy options, Bay City, MI offers a variety of licensed professionals who provide comprehensive care for individuals with severe mental illnesses. Therapists in this area are experienced in treating mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, and co-occurring disorders.

Therapists in Bay City, including licensed professional counselors, are dedicated to supporting clients through their healing process and fostering personal growth. Many of these professionals are affiliated with Central Michigan University and bring a wealth of knowledge from the mental health field.

Therapists in Bay City often use play therapy and commitment therapy to address various mental health concerns. They offer parenting support and strategies for managing low self esteem, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs.

Engaging in therapy can help individuals navigate their mental health journey and achieve greater well-being. Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.

This is Jessica Short-Slack's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Short-Slack

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Bay City
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW,LMT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello and welcome! What a wonderful and courageous step you have made! My name is Jessica Slack, I am a clinical therapist and a licensed master of social work (LMSW) through the state of Michigan. I acquired both my bachelors and masters of social work through the University of Michigan, and have been practicing as a counselor for individuals, couples, and families for the past 8 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including personality disorders, mood disorders (including bipolar disorder and depression), anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, substance use and addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. I have worked with victims of trauma and loss, as well as those struggling with impulsive behaviors, eating disorders, and problems managing anger. My therapy style is empathetic, validating, and encouraging, with a healthy mixture of solution-oriented, motivational, and change-based approaches. Balancing both acceptance and change, I encourage others to identify their personal goals, and work together to build their most authentic life. I use a holistic and strengths-based approach and a variety of therapeutic techniques and interventions tailored toward your unique strengths and needs. I have practiced a variety of treatment modalities, with my expertise being in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. I also utilize solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques. I utilize a mixture of theoretical approaches, with a foundation being in the holistic biopsychosocial approach. Integrating biological, psychological, and socio-cultural perspectives, I work toward determining and understanding behavior and cognitive processes as a result of a combination of biological processes, past experiences, and social-cultural norms. I focus on a variation of a strengths-based approach, mindfulness approach, and problem solving approach to develop insight, build skills and enhance mastery, and empower you to be most effective in solving problems and managing emotions. I believe in treating every individual with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and empowering against stigmatizing labels. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and joyful 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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Kelly Messing-Mirabito

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Bay City
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC,CAADC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am a professional counselor and I have been practicing for over 20 years. I have worked with many areas including anxiety, stress, self esteem depression and life transitions. I graduated with my B.S. from Oakland University and my Masters in Counseling also came from Oakland University. I believe that life will always have it's struggles and that we can all benefit from counseling. Life can throw things at us that we are not prepared for and I can be that person to help you through life's challenges. I am a great listener, compassionate and empathetic. I will meet you where you are and help you progress towards your goals. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic, Brief Solution Focused Therapy and Behavioral Therapies. It takes courage to be able to admit that we are in a place that we can benefit from help from someone else. You have taken that first step towards change and I would enjoy working with you. I am looking forward to working with you on life's journey. This platform is not appropriate for those feeling suicidal. If you are feeling suicidal please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255, dial 911 or go to your local emergency room.

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Dr. Kristi Hottenstein

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Bay City
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC,Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Whether you’re experiencing difficult times or new adventures, I’m here to help. I have been a licensed professional counselor in the state of Michigan since 2009. I am the practitioner/owner of Compass Counseling & Coaching, PLLC, a member of the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association and was appointed to their board in 2021. I have a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Toledo, a masters in Counseling from the University of La Verne and a bachelors in Sociology from Alma College. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and teens, as well as provide college selection coaching. I have a very holistic approach to counseling because no two people are the same. I see each client as an individual requiring their own unique approach. I use a variety of counseling techniques, encouraging self-awareness and the acceptance of one’s own responsibilities in their personal journey. I believe the more we know ourselves, the better we can respond to situations.

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Marcius Brock

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Bay City
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I have 25+ years within educational settings from children to adults. Former teacher, coach and university student services manager. I have a strong, intuitive focus on assessing needs and outlining behaviors. I am a personable active listener and results-based professional that primary objective is to assist clients in finding their needs and to illuminate their options that will hopefully lead to the positive, healthy and lasting life outcomes they desire.

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Kirstin Davis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Bay City
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am therapist in Michigan that has previously worked in Texas with NFL players with traumatic brain injuries as well as adults and adolescents in neuropsychology. I have worked with many different issues and have over 10 years of experience between interning in therapy and working as an actual therapist. I'm in my early thirties and love to be a role model to adolescents. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and life management. I enjoy listening to people's stories and problems and finding new angles to tackle them from. My therapy style is meeting you where you're at. I don't judge at all and I will work with you to help you get what you're striving for. I'm not here to give you advice but to rather navigate who you are and how we can get you to your fullest potential. I take your mental health seriously and can tell that you do too, otherwise you wouldn't be reading this. Hoping to build a strong therapeutic alliance with you and help you have the best life. Also, I do not prefer video sessions, I will do them in some cases, and usually the first sessions, but then prefer therapy over voice as I travel frequently. Please only select me as a therapist if you’re comfortable with this.

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Gary Rasmussen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Bay City
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefBipolar disorderDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & bipolar disorder. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Darlene Hawkins-Bland

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Bay City
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Chelsea Sudderth

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Bay City
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionCoaching
7 years of experience

Welcome! I am currently licensed in Michigan with 7 years of professional work experience. I have unique experience in helping clients with depression and anxiety, complex trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and various relationship issues. As a specialized trauma therapist, I work with each of my clients from an individual and client-centered approach for not only treatment, but for healing. Having been on the other end of receiving therapy services, I understand the courage it takes to reach out to someone new in need of urgent support. It is my promise to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental, and compassionate experience as a partner on your journey.

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Faith Campbell Powers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Bay City
Counselor License Type(s): MS MFT,MS LFMT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Connecticut and more recently in Florida. I can work with you to help you improve your relationship with yourself and your loved ones. I will provide a non-judgmental safe space with respect and compassion for you to work through your problems. It takes courage to ask for help in life, but you made it here to look so you've taken a first step! I look forward to working with you!

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Josh Brewster

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Bay City
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementCoaching
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa, Michigan and Minnesota with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Bay City

Finding the best therapist close by in Bay 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 with therapists in Bay City that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Bay City. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Bay 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Bay City region and in the state of Michigan. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Bay City or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Bay City therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Bay City area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Bay City, elsewhere in Bay, or in the greater state of Michigan. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Bay City area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Bay City therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Bay City due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Bay 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Michigan you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Bay City online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Bay 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Bay City psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Bay 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Bay City provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Bay City?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Bay City 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Bay City 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 Bay 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in MI, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 48707 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Bay City counselor?

Before seeing your Bay City therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Bay City therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Bay 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 with a Bay City counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Bay 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.

Bay City has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Bay City, Michigan

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 Bay City 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 to customer service 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 Bay City.

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

48706, 48707, 48708

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