On the banks of Lake Michigan, Norton Shores is also surrounded by other water like Black Lake and Mona Lake. In fact, the folks living in Norton Shores love spending their free time on or by the water. However, if you have a mental health condition that is stopping you from doing the things you enjoy, going to the beach is not fun for you anymore. 

If you have depression or an anxiety disorder, it can affect your ability to enjoy things you used to love like swimming, fishing, boating, and spending time with your family and friends. There are many dedicated psychologists in Norton Shores who can help you get back to having fun again so contact one today. 

This is Megan Vaccaro's avatar and link to their profile

Megan Vaccaro

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Norton Shores
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

Hello! I'm so glad you're here. My name is Megan Vaccaro and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker from, "The Great Lakes State"...Michigan. I graduated in 2000 from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI. I work with individuals, couples and families on issues such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, behavior issues, family conflict, trauma/abuse and parenting issues. My treatment approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy which works with challenging distorted thinking, aka-thinking traps (we all get tripped up with this). It's good to know how to challenge negative thoughts in order to have more positive experiences. I also use dialectical behavior therapy which includes work on mindfulness (awareness of thoughts, feelings, behaviors and behavioral urges), distress tolerance (stress will happen..what do we do about it?), emotion regulation (I'm overwhelmed with emotion...now what?) and interpersonal effectiveness (building and maintaining positive relationships). I thrive on problem solving, so, it makes sense that solution focused therapy is also used. I will take a non-judgmental stance allowing you to feel comfortable sharing whatever circumstance that brought you to Betterhelp. I care about people and know that we all go through struggles in life. I approach people with respect and honor as I often think how I would want to be treated or how I would want my family to be treated in the counseling environment. I value effective communication and place a high priority on this.

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Dr. Julie Moreno

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Norton Shores
Counselor License Type(s): PhD, LPC, ATR-BC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello, I am a PhD level counselor that is fully licensed in the state of Michigan and have recently received a temporary license in Massachusetts. I have experience working with clients with a vast array of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, life transitions, and grief and bereavement. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. As a counselor, I strive to create a safe, therapeutic environment in which together, we can explore your needs and goals. In sessions, I will treat you with respect, while being non-judgmental and supportive as we work on challenges that you may be facing. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic forms of counseling and you and I will collaborate to determine a way to meet your individuals needs and hopes. Thank you for taking this first step towards making the changes that you want in your life. Counseling is a collaborative journey, and I will use my training and expertise to help you attain the type of life that you want. I look forward to working with you!

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Carolina Dudley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Norton Shores
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

My name is Carolina Dudley and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in the State of Michigan and Ohio. I've worked in my field for almost 16 years in various settings (court ordered juvenile placement, sobriety court, Hospital inpatient and outpatient, hospice care and community) and with various populations and ages. My therapeutic counseling style is compassionate and encouraging. I encourage openness and trust. Deciding to participate in therapy can be feel scary to most people as it is difficult to share very intimate details of our lives. I want to be the first one to commend you for deciding to take that chance and to allow me to embark in this path with you.

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Gloria Allum "Kekalos"

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Norton Shores
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
27 years of experience

I am a Licensed Master level Social Worker with over 27 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues as well as military veterans. I have also aided people who have experienced emotional abuse and trauma related issues. I am empathetic and able to talk with all different kinds of different people. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and other evidenced based psychotherapies. I meet clients where they are in their lives and will taylor their treatment based on their needs and desires. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect. If you are ready to take the steps toward change and seek a more fulfilling life I am here to support you in this process. I look forward to meeting and working with you.

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Bernice Diop

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Norton Shores
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW,LMFT,ACSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
40 years of experience

I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker and as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My experience spans multiple years in various settings, such as outpatient, inpatient settings, homebound and community. I am an attentive listener, focused on helping individuals to feel comfortable in taking that initial step in asking for help. Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal conflict, workplace issues, and anger management. Commonly used approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, a modified EMDR approach, and a broad range of strategies suitable to meet specific needs.

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Kim Keller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Norton Shores
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW,CAADC,CCS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

For the past 14 years, I have had the privilege of supporting people on their healing journeys. I specialize in addiction and mental health therapy and have a down to earth approach to the counseling relationship. You are the expert of your own life, and I believe you have all the necessary skills to get where you want to go. My job is to help you get there through empathy, challenging negative thinking patterns, and ultimately accepting and embracing your individualism. If you've ever felt like you're missing something, the instruction manual to life that you were never given, I hope to help you find your answers. If you find yourself suffering from extreme emotions, repeating patterns you know are toxic for you, and you don't know how to cope or change, that's what I'm here for. If the whole world seems to be falling apart, and to deal with the fear, you or someone you love are trying to manage through unhealthy addictions, I can guide you to new skills for more flexibility. You wish you could just breathe, that things didn't seem so hard. You want to achieve goals you set for yourself and your future. You hope to rebuild damaged relationships and create healthy new ones. You want to deal with your stress instead of staying numb. You want to feel like it's worth getting up everyday and that your life has purpose and fulfillment. I have worked with several people having these thoughts and feelings and have experienced much of the same myself. I am passionate about helping others work through these challenges and making sure you know you're not alone.

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This is Rima Soueidan's avatar and link to their profile

Rima Soueidan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Norton Shores
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I also have experience working with 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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This is Pamela Francken's avatar and link to their profile

Pamela Francken

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Norton Shores
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have just become Certified in Trauma work. 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. Please let me know if you having any questions for me and I will be happy to answer them. I look forward to meeting you and starting this journey together.

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This is Hannah Duran's avatar and link to their profile

Hannah Duran

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Norton Shores
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesCoaching
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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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This is Amy Verhoeven's avatar and link to their profile

Amy Verhoeven

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Norton Shores
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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 Norton Shores

Finding the best therapist close by in Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores. 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 Norton Shores, 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores, elsewhere in Muskegon, 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Norton Shores, 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 49444 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 Norton Shores counselor?

Before seeing your Norton Shores 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. Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores, 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.

Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores, 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 Norton Shores 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 Norton Shores.

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

49441, 49444

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