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Erin McDaid

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Empire
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefBipolar disorderDepression
8 years of experience

Hi, I am Erin McDaid. I have been working for over eight years as a clinical therapist with adults, older adults, and older adolescents. I use a goal-oriented therapy style, focusing on areas of strength or need that are determined by the client. My style is no-nonsense and direct. I use a wide variety of skills and techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, narrative therapy, and motivational interviewing. I often assign homework for clients to complete between therapy sessions (however, I try not to make it complex or overwhelming). I do not believe in stereotyping, labeling, or stigmatizing people. I welcome working with people of all faiths, genders, sexual orientations, political affiliations, and ethnicities. At an initial interview clients should expect to discuss with me their background (how they grew up, what they have done since high school, any relationship status), their current symptoms, any drug or alcohol use or history, any legal history, and their hopes for what they will get from therapy. During this discussion I will work to clarify any questions that occur to me and to reassure the client that both the client and I are understanding the client’s needs and history. We will also discuss what the specific issues are that brought you to therapy. Be ready to be open and forthcoming. Clients may leave their initial session with a simple homework assignment that will begin to move them forward with their treatment.

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Fran Adler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Empire
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
25 years of experience

Hi! My name is Fran Cowen Adler and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the State of Michigan. I’ve worked as a therapist in a variety of private and group settings since earning my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in 1998. In the 25 years I’ve been in practice I’ve worked with teens, couples, families, Pride/LGBTQ clients, and individuals as young as 3 and as old as 80. I’ve helped people with depression; anxiety; stress; problems at work or at home; issues with family members or friends; relationship challenges; difficulty making decisions or finding satisfying work; struggles adjusting to change; grief over the death of a loved one or other significant loss. In other words, I work with individuals in emotional pain, a condition that simply comes with living life as a human being. If you’ve never seen a therapist before, you’ve probably had the experience of feeling better after talking with a trusted and compassionate family member or friend. One advantage of seeing a therapist is that this person exists outside of your personal life. You don’t need to be concerned about things like confidentiality. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with a nonjudgmental professional in a safe atmosphere of acceptance and support can be enormously helpful and therapeutic. Over these two decades of practice it has been my pleasure, honor, and privilege to help many people navigate their way forward through particularly challenging times. Thank you for your interest, and I hope to hear from you soon!

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Janice Harbin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Empire
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC, CAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years of experience

My name is Janice Harbin, I have worked in the mental health field for over 30 years. I started to work with adolescents and children. I have worked with adults for the past 10 years primarily. I have worked in mental health outpatient settings that have referred to psychiatric services as needed. I have worked with addicts of all kinds in the past 10 years, and was part of a drug court treatment team for 3 of those years. I have a Certified Advanced Addiction Drug Counselor Certification for 8 years. I see the addiction as the symptom and seek to see the problem creating this addiction. I have a Christian background and a strong faith and believe in the power of prayer. I would be happy to share some of my expertise with you and help you on your life's journey. Sometimes the road gets lonesome and rocky, and we all need help here and there. I enjoy being in the outdoors, riding my bike or walking. I also enjoy spending time with my family, kids and grandkids.

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Dr. Blandina Rose-willis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Empire
Counselor License Type(s): PhD
Career difficulties
3 years of experience

My counseling activities began with working with ex-offenders and ex-addicts who were seeking jobs. Clients’ issues ranged from job seeking skills to self-esteem issues, to appropriate job-related functions. I then moved on to university counseling, where my skills were applied to students who were struggling to effectively complete classes and move on. In some cases, career decisions changed or needed to be explored. I then moved to community college counseling, where issues included homelessness, prostitution, self-esteem, post-war trauma, career clarification, single parenthood, feelings of worthlessness, and many other areas. I had success with these clients, despite carrying a huge caseload and fighting burnout. Upon completion of my PhD, I became an administrator and used my counseling skills to supervise staff and departments, teach and model effective communication skills and problem-solve. In all of these roles, listening was my most effective skill. I strongly believe that every person deserves a counselor who will give them unconditional positive regard, the watchwords of client-centered counseling. Clients should also know that I believe in the healthy personality, that individuals, when provided support and options, will forge their way forward and solve their issues and continue with new life skills to use. I would consider myself a holistic person in that I believe that all aspects of the psyche and body work together — health, spirit, mental wellness, sexuality, exercise and self care all come together to create the person working to become. I believe we are all becoming. When I opened my counseling practice, I was focused on diversity consulting and community health and wellness. I believe that communities need counseling, too. I also had a small clientele, most of whom were experiencing some form of depression based on marital issues, a sense of being overwhelmed, and/or needing support in making some health and diet changes. In addition to individual counseling, I also conducted various forms of counseling groups. My group work is a strength over the course of my career. Most recently I conducted a workshop for teachers on LGBTQ legal and social issues, and found that a great deal of individual counseling could have been incorporated with that group going forward. So much to do, so little time.

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Diane Curry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Empire
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience providing counseling services. I have worked with clients with vocational and career choices, self-esteem and confidence building, couples with communication deficits, and parents seeking parenting help. I am open-minded and friendly. I listen to what my clients say and I hear what they don't. I encourage deep self-reflection and genuine exploration of what the client can control. I believe in asking tricky, hard, and uneasy questions. The will be done with a level of kindness and delicacy. Clients will be guided into a better way of thinking which often improves behavior affecting solid mental health. It is important every client walk away from their encounter more fulfilled than before.

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Abigail Berlin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Empire
GriefCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss & coping with life changes. 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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Vanessa Stafford

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Empire
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
40 years of experience

If you're feeling that it's time to figure out the confusion or discord in your relationship... YOU"VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE!☮ Hi! I'm Vanessa Stafford, a licensed master level clinician with over 40 years of professional experience in the State of Michigan. More importantly I am someone who sparks change in people's lives and relationships. I support individuals and couples who want to regain or feel fulfilled in their connection with their partner. My work is geared towards supporting clients in exploring their history and patterns of behavior that may be negatively impacting the relationship... uncovering behaviors they may not even be aware, while identifying tools that support and sustain a more positive relationship. I support clients in finding finding peace and balance. ☮ My training and experience is geared primarily towards helping clients who are coping with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse. I have extensive experience and training in helping couples in setting boundaries while finding peace, uncovering the "love she most desires and the respect he desperately needs", identifying past complex trauma that may be creeping into current relationships, and batterer intervention, just to name a few. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you hold the key for identifying your 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 this first step towards a change is a key indicator that you are ready and capable of advocating for change. My clients are very highly motivated and committed to making changes in their love life, and I enjoy supporting and providing techniques so that they can reach their potential and ultimately succeed! I know that your time and money is valuable so I work diligently to be as structured and goal-oriented as possible. If you are ready to put in the work, you will be amazed at how capable you are as you explore parts of yourself you never knew existed. I am here to support & empower you in your journey. I challenge you to take the next step by signing up for an available time on my portal. www.betterhelp.com/Vanessa-Stafford Thank you for seeking the support you need! Vanessa Stafford, LMSW

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Angela Haas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Empire
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & depression. I also have experience working with clients diagnosed with ADHD. I want to support my clients, help them accomplish their therapy goals, and help them to reach their fullest potential. 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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This is Tina Bacigalupo's avatar and link to their profile

Tina Bacigalupo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Empire
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Do you feel stuck in life by negative thoughts or experiences? I understand - life is not easy. I am a compassionate licensed professional counselor with the experience and tools needed to help identify the roadblocks preventing you from living the life you want and deserve. I truly respect your decision to consider counseling as a resource for growth and increased happiness. To be effective, a comfortable connection is essential. My clients will experience a kind, non-judgmental relationship where thoughts and feelings can be shared openly. Let’s work together to create the life you want and deserve. l look forward to meeting you soon!

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Aimee LaFear

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Empire
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Empire

Finding the best therapist close by in Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire. 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 Empire, 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire, elsewhere in Leelanau, 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Empire, 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 49630 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 Empire counselor?

Before seeing your Empire 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. Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire 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 Empire, 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.

Empire 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 Empire, Michigan

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 Empire 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 Empire.

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

49630

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