This is Kristine Edwards's avatar and link to their profile

Kristine Edwards

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Mecosta
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

Do you find you are missing your voice? That you have spent your whole life identifying as someone else's "something" - whether that be someone's spouse, partner, friend, co-worker, mother, leader, etc... Do you know what drives you or what you are passionate about?? This is where I come in...let's work together to find your voice... your direction. Whether you are an individual person or part of a couple trying to find that synergy you remember, but can no longer find. Come on...let's start this journey together. I am your partner... I am a facilitator of change and together we do this counseling thing! Human to Human...you and me. I am YOUR change agent. YOUR advocate. YOUR partner in this process. I am here to help you identify things that challenge you, discourage you, scare you...and then we find ways to bust through what you think is holding you back or keeping you from reaching your goals. Which we will identify - TOGETHER!

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Melissa Kaekel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Mecosta
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CRC
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCompassion fatigue
21 years of experience

I've been working as a counselor for over 15 years. My primary areas of focus are disability issues, workplace issues, and military/veteran issues. I have experience with: * Adjusting to a disability (recovering from accident, chronic pain, depression, unsure of what to do now) * Coping with changes caused by a disability (career change, change of work tasks, use of reasonable accommodations) * Workplace stress (conflicts with peers/supervisors, unhappy with career, etc) * Readjusting to civilian life after military service (home and/or work, stress from working with the VA for help) * Working through combat-related traumas My approach to counseling is to help you find value and meaning in the experience as you navigate a way forward. We create a safe space for you to share your feelings. I like to provide an assignment between sessions for you to complete to help reinforce a new change or skill or to assign a writing exercise to help you explore your feelings, but these are not required. We'll work to figure out how you'll benefit the most from our time together. I'm a liberal person who is comfortable working with people of all sexual orientations.

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Shelly Goodman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Mecosta
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
11 years of experience

I am a fully licensed Masters Level Clinician and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor for ten (10) years. I obtained my Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling at Michigan State University. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults and adults. I specialize in the following Anxiety, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Depression, Grief, PTSD and Substance abuse.

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Susan Shouse

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

Hello- My name is Susan. I am licensed in Michigan with over 25 years of professional experience. I have worked as a mental health therapist in both clinical and in-home settings, mainly with adults and older adults. I'm also an experienced grief therapist, having worked in hospice. My specialties include mood disorders (depression, anxiety and worry), grief and loss, coping with major life changes, motivation, goal setting, and overcoming shyness and improving self-esteem. I'm also experienced in counseling people who are choosing or changing career paths, struggling with relationship issues, and addictions. My Clinical approach utilizes a variety of techniques including Solution-Focused Therapy (just what it sounds like), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (Changing thoughts and beliefs to change behavior), and Family Systems Therapy (families are inter-connected therefore what happens to one affects others). Most importantly, I practice active listening skills. This involves having a genuine interest in You! I'll be listening carefully to what you have to say, reflecting back what I'm hearing from you, asking pertinent questions, and making suggestions based on insight and many years of experience. I value the relationship I have with my clients. I take my time in building trust and mutual respect, and I follow your lead. After all, this is your journey- not mine! It's never too late to start living your best life! I respect and admire your courage in taking this huge first step of choosing a counselor. If you're ready to begin, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Bushra Alsafari

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Mecosta
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepression
8 years of experience

My name is Bushra Alsafari and I am licensed clinical therapist in Michigan with 8 years of professional work experience. I am also a certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor. I have a masters degree in Social Work. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, depression, 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. I do focus more on mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy during sessions. 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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Ashley Sorenson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Mecosta
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepressionCoping 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, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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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Joyce Harris

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Mecosta
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 10 years of professional work experience as a Clinical Therapist. I worked as a Counselor for 20 years. I have extensive experience in helping clients who are challenged with depression, anxiety, mood disorders and trauma. I work with my clients to create a caring, accepting and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am sincere and caring and will work with you to help you reach your goals so that you can live your best life. Taking steps to develop a more fulfilling and satisfying life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Whitney Leininger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Mecosta
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker based in Southwestern Michigan. I have experience providing direct mental health and behavioral services to children and adults experiencing anxiety; depression; relationship and family issues; personality and mood disorders; stress related to sexual orientation and gender identity; employment related stress; navigating grief and loss; motivation, self esteem, and confidence; fostering self-compassion; & coping with expected and unexpected life changes. . I have provided treatment and services in a variety of settings, including the community, schools, in-home, and residential treatment facilities. I believe our therapeutic relationship is one built upon mutual respect between equals with our own lived experiences. My style and approach utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Supportive Therapy, Solution-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and a variety of approaches that may include mindfulness practice, journaling, worksheets, and reflection. I will collaborate with you to develop a therapeutic relationship focused on achieving your desired outcome, whether that is improved insight, support, symptom relief, problem-solving, developing adaptive coping skills, or something else. 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. It is my pleasure to support & empower you in that journey.

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Kirk Taskila

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Mecosta
LGBTTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Stephanie Hrit

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

I am licensed in Michigan with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Mecosta

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

Therapists in Mecosta, 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 Mecosta 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 Mecosta 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 Mecosta 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 Mecosta?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Mecosta 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 Mecosta 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 Mecosta 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 49332 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 Mecosta counselor?

Before seeing your Mecosta 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. Mecosta 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 Mecosta 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 Mecosta 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 Mecosta, 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.

Mecosta 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 Mecosta, 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 Mecosta 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 Mecosta.

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

49332

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