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Sharon Sumler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW, CCATP, CTMH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience

Hello, my name is Sharon, I am a Licensed Clinical and Macro Master Social Worker (LMSW) from the state of Michigan and currently reside in Southern California. I am also a Certified Anxiety Treatment Profession in Social Distancing. I have 16 years (and counting) of experience with working with family, children, teens, adults and couples. I believe that growth comes through challenging experiences that ultimately forces us to learn how to move forward in life and to re-evaluate our self-worth. I have had my own personal struggles in life, medically and emotionally, and have learned to work at overcoming them. I am a very understanding person and know that we all need someone to talk to and to find comfort in without being judge, and that is the reason I would like to be that person for you. I look forward with working with you!

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Camille Romain

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Counselor License Type(s): MBA,LMSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficulties
17 years of experience

You are the architect of your own life, and your success is based on your own design. Hi, my name is Camille! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with over 13 years of experience providing therapeutic services in the medical and non-profit arena. I graduated from Wayne State University in 2003 with my MSW and Spring Arbor University in 2018 with my MBA. Over the course of my career, I have recognized that it is not just important to listen to clients but to really hear what they are sharing and help them process their own thoughts. My therapeutic approach is a combination of humanistic and client-centered therapy with a genuine, non-judgmental empowering demeanor. As a therapist, I believe that you are the expert of your feelings. Together we will delicately approach the challenges you are faced with. By using a client-centered approach, you will feel heard, supported and come to your own self-understanding. My responsibility as your therapist is to encourage you to explore your feelings, examine experiences, assess challenges, and help you move forward the best way possible. This is the beginning of something special for you, and I’m glad you have decided to embark on this transformational journey of therapy. Let’s get started! How can I help?

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Amy Klein

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW,CAADC,Reiki Master, Yoga 200 hr teacher
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 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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Samantha Dehring

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW,CAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

A Master-level Social Worker, and clinical mental health and substance abuse therapist, with special certification from The Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute’s Advanced Training in Adult Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Program, and honorably discharged 1LT Behavioral Health Science Officer of the Michigan National Guard. People are more than a mere diagnosis or behavior. They are a vast sum of their mind, body and spirit, of memories, heredity, beliefs, environment, experiences, emotions, strengths, weaknesses, fears, hopes, dreams and desires, successes and failures. This sum of body, mind and spirit combines to form the root system of either growth and progress or toxicity and stagnation in the present. I aim to provide a gateway to self-awareness, sobriety, empowerment, freedom from addiction and a kaleidoscope of mental illnesses. I won’t pathologize you, but instead seek to understand you from a multi-faceted lens to help you better achieve your goals and improve the quality of your life. I am interested in you, and in raising you to your highest standard, in helping you overcome your pain, grief, addiction, fear or sense of powerlessness. I often learn just as much from my patients as they learn about themselves throughout the therapeutic process. I am human and prone to err; however, I am not above learning unfamiliar concepts, ideologies, philosophies, practices or preferences. I am committed to educating myself on any sphere of identity which my patients hold as valuable in order to enrich the therapeutic alliance and foster a deeper sense of rapport. In order to truly help another, I believe, strongly, it is the principal job of the therapist to take the time and rigor to truly understand the patient's world, perspective, value system and belief structure. This is integral to the treatment process.

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Jocelyn Bennett

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed individual and family therapist in Michigan with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting issues. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I do video sessions but am open to phone calls as needed. It takes courage to seek a fuller and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. If you're ready to take that step, I'm here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Pamala Topp

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Dakota and Michigan. I am also an LPC-MH Supervisee (SD has a 2 tier licensing requirement). My aim is to work with clients who struggle with feeling disconnected from themselves, others, are anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage all the aspects of their lives. When we push our needs aside to without taking time for yourself, this can lead to frustration, resentment, anxiety, depression and stress. I work with you to be able to resolve the barriers that are keeping you from living a full and meaningful life. I am certified and specialize in trauma, personality disorders (CCTP-II and C-PD), and specialize in attachment issues (both children and adults). I also treat mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger/impulse control, grief & loss, adoption and relationship issues. I primarily utilize CBT, DBT-informed, EMDR, Play Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy with all individuals, and tend to approach what I do from an Existential, Psychodynamic and Person-Centered way. Navigating through issues on your own can be difficult and overwhelming. It helps to have someone that understands your struggle, and walk with you on your path of recovery.

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Derrick McCullom

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & coping with life changes. 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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This is Shaina Simmons's avatar and link to their profile

Shaina Simmons

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf 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, family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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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Jessica Bates

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina and Iowa with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with grief and loss, 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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This is Kristen Blackmer's avatar and link to their profile

Kristen Blackmer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Ionia

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

Therapists in Ionia, 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 Ionia 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 Ionia 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 Ionia 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 Ionia?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Ionia 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 Ionia 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 Ionia 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 48846 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 Ionia counselor?

Before seeing your Ionia 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. Ionia 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 Ionia 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 Ionia 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 Ionia, 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.

Ionia 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 Ionia, 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 Ionia 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 Ionia.

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

48846

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