This is Jacqueline Rafter's avatar and link to their profile

Jacqueline Rafter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW,CAADC
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementADHD
8 years of experience

I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including people please, low self-esteem, traumatic relationships with partners or parents, ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, anger management difficulties, career challenges and adjusting to major life changes. This includes people who have experienced physical trauma, emotional abuse or sexual abuse. My counseling style is non-judgmental, warm, interactive, direct and empowering. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I use Inner Child Healing work, EMDR techniques and Cognitive Behavioral therapy as my priary techniques for healing. I teach skills for managing difficulties until those difficulties can be resolved. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to acknowledge there is room or need for change, seek for a more fulfilling and happier 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.. My office is located in Michigan, and My hours are generally Monday through Friday 6a-4p EST. Please take note that I am physically located in Michigan, and licenced in MI, IN and CA. If you are in PST time zone, please make sure you are confirming AM, or PM when you schedule your appointments. My availablity is at times flexible, I offer sessions 6am - 4p est daily, and tuesdays and Thursdays I am able to offer sessions until 7p est. If you are in CA and requier evening sessions, you will want to switch therapists, as I am not able to offer sessions after 1p in California on MWF, and after 4p on Tuesday and Thursday. I look forward to working with you!

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LaKeisha Blackwell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Counselor License Type(s): B.A. Criminal Justice,MA Counseling
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience

It is my pleasure to walk along side of you on this journey. Compassion, empathy and genuine love for people is what propels me to utilize the therapeutic process to listen, encourage, empower and uplift. My professional experience includes working with youth, adults and families in various life situations and settings. Psychotherapy Specializations include: Generalized anxiety disorder, work related stress, depression, relationship issues, PTSD, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity and Disorder (ADHD), Communication, Anger, Parenting I have experience working with diverse populations, including socioeconomic, ethnic, cultural, religious, and racial backgrounds. Cultural diversity and sensitivity is a priority in my practice. Counseling Techniques: Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Play therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Grief therapy. After assessing your needs, together we will determine the frequency of sessions. I look forward to working with you as you work through challenges and discover your inner strength.

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Marie Turner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC,ACS
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoaching
19 years of experience

Hello, My name is Marie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the States of DC - District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Michigan, and New Jersey. I have over 18 years of counseling experience. I am a Christian; believing in JESUS Christ, Spiritually centered, and rooted in the Word of GOD. I currently provide mental health, EAP, grief, personal, social, career, and educational counseling. I am a GriefShare service provider. With over 25 years in the field of higher education, I also provide academic, career, personal, and social counseling for adults, teens, adolescence, and children. I provide counseling to individuals, family, and group. I have experience in relationship counseling, working to resolve issues, and family conflict. I look forward to working together with you to resolve and meet any of your counseling needs. Some of the therapeutic approaches used are person (client)-centered, cognitive behavioral, and motivational interviewing therapy. I am also a Counseling Supervisor, providing services to Limited Licensed Counselors; Students in an University/College Practicum and Internship setting as Site Supervisor to meet state and academic requirements. I have experience counseling through the State of Michigan on cases of neglect, abuse, reunification, foster care, and knowledge with the child welfare system. "Reunification and wholeness" are the key; when there's a healthier treatment plan goal in mind.

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Lisa Scott

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW,ACSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
31 years of experience

Hi! My name is Lisa and I have been practicing in the field of Social Work and mental health close to 30 years. I have been afforded opportunities to work in a variety of settings. Some of the settings include Psychiatric inpatient, Community mental health clinics, Public School District( mental health) , Substance abuse and Geriatric health, to name just a few. I am energetic and have been described as , honest, caring , hardworking, upbeat ,open-minded, and knowledgeable. I have been known to utilize different therapeutic approaches depending on the concerns of the individual. I try to make each person feel as comfortable as possible. I treat everybody with the utmost respect, just the way I want to be treated. I am a good listener and I like others to feel like they are in a safe space when we are working together. I love to laugh and when appropriate, laughter can be quite healing. If you think based on this brief synopsis of myself, that I may be a good fit, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

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Louise Laine

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Life throws us curveballs when we least expect it! We are all fallible human beings doing our best to navigate the constant current of change and challenges. My experience is varied. In my 25 years as a mental health professional I have worked in the areas of private practice , education and career settings. My Therapeutic Lens is evidence-based , co-active and rooted in positive psychology. This means the dialogue and focus of sessions is led by the client and proceeds at their comfortable pace. It is by this unique client-counselor alliance that an individual not only regains balance but thrives to become their best selves! As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor(NCC) I am committed to listening, caring and collaborating in this personal connection together!

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Sheila Krieger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficulties
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Dr. Andrew Mendonsa

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Stress, AnxietyLGBTIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

Your Authentic Self, Your Strongest Self: Therapy Tailored in a Safe, Supportive Space Hello! I'm Dr. Andrew Mendonsa, a clinical psychologist and therapist with 20+ years of experience helping folks like you navigate life's complexities and embrace their true potential and authentic self. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with problematic sexual behavior, kink/alt lifestyle/polyamory-focused issues, and anyone seeking a male therapist's perspective. My journey through the worlds of mental health and addiction – from community mental health and marginalized groups, to the criminal justice system, to high wealth clients and corporate boardrooms – has equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges clients, especially men and those from specialized populations, face today. I've helped countless individuals overcome shame, guilt, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and the unique pressures of modern life. As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I offer a safe and judgment-free space to explore your identity, gender, relationships, sexual expression, and sexuality. Whether you're questioning, coming out, or navigating the unique stressors of the LGBTQIA+, kink, alt-pop, or straight communities, I'm here to support you on your journey! For those grappling with problematic sexual behavior that is causing issues with your work, relationships, finance, or other areas, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to recovery. I will not tell you to stop what you are doing or else, instead we will identify what is motivating your behavior and desire to change. Knowing these, we can then develop a tailored treatment plan and achievable goals. Together, we'll address the underlying issues, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and rebuild a fulfilling life free from shame, guilt, and compulsive behaviors. My extensive background working with high-achieving individuals in business and academia makes me uniquely equipped to understand the pressures of professional life. If you're struggling with work-related stress, burnout, or career transitions, I can offer practical strategies for success and well-being. I have owned, sold, and managed companies and worked in high levels within the public sector. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal-oriented, and results-driven. I believe therapy should be a catalyst for change, not a lifelong commitment. Think of it like a tune-up for your mind – we'll get you back on track and running smoothly. You wouldn't leave your car in the shop forever, would you? So why force yourself into a lifetime of therapy? I invite you to visit my website, www.AndrewMendonsa.com, to learn more about me and my approach. Let's work together to build a life that is authentic, fulfilling, and true to you.

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Valerie Jackson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 25 years of professional work experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, confidence and other mental health concerns. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Mahana Lugo-Montenegro

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Mahana Lugo received a Master’s Degree from Western Michigan University in Counseling Education. Mahana has worked in the Human Development field for seventeen years in different areas including Community Mental Health, School Counseling, Education and Human Resources, both in the United States and Nicaragua. Although Mahana uses an eclectic approach to be able to serve the needs of each person, her two main two theoretical orientations are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Behavioral Therapy. Mahana is trained in the Evidenced Based approaches Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Suicide Prevention Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (SP-CBT). Mahana’s experience has focused on Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Developmental Disabilities, ADD/ADHD, Crisis Intervention.

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Andraya Przekora

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Ionia
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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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