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Jennifer Kirkpatrick

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Sterling
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with a master's degree in clinical mental health with experience in working with a multitude of concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting, and couples counseling. I also have extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) which has been a useful tool in helping others not only cope with current concerns, but assist them in coping with future endeavors. I believe in creating a strong, trusting, therapeutic environment where people feel comfortable, motivated, and not judged. I use solution-focused techniques to assist in reaching goals and CBT techniques to help with concerns such as negative thought patterns. Every person is different and you will have your own individualized therapy and plan that tailors to your needs. I really enjoy helping others explore their own strengths and I understand that sometimes it can be hard to put things into perspective. Sometimes that outside and non-judgmental assistance is what someone needs to get back on track or on a better track. You can do it! Jennifer Maggar LPC NCC

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Dr. Brian Shaffer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Sterling
Counselor License Type(s): MA, MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTGriefDepression
15 years of experience

Brian is a Licensed Professional Counselor with education, training and clinical experience in the fields of Mental Health, Addiction, Trauma, Grief, Loss and Bereavement and Spiritual Care. He provides counseling, assessment and intervention services that help clients meet their goals for a life in recovery. Brian has a passion for providing quality care, support and services to his clients through a person-centered approach that incorporates interventions from various theories and methodologies. He believes in helping clients process through past traumatic experiences that have contributed to current struggles with substance abuse and mental health symptoms. Brian also incorporates client’s spiritual beliefs into the treatment protocol in order to holistically address their needs. His extensive experience and passion for this field has helped guide individuals through the process of recovery in order to experience freedom from their past and a hope for their future.

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Kristin Fox-Klingensmith

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

Hello, my name is Kristin and I have over 22 years experience working in the mental health field. Over the years I have worked in a variety of settings including a community mental health agency, a psychiatric hospital, an outpatient clinic, and also providing therapy in county jails. This experience has enable me to work with a broad range and intensity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship issues, and addictions. My counseling style is warm, interactive and encouraging. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, person-centered and psychodynamic therapy. We will work together as a team to identify your treatment goals and objectives and I will support you on your path to positive change. I believe the therapeutic relationship is really the key to a successful counseling experience. I have participated in treatment myself in the past to navigate some of life challenges, so I can appreciate the fact that reaching out for help can be a challenge. Unfortunately, there is still so much stigma around having mental health issues and the process for getting help can be overwhelming and intimidating. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I primarily use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I applaud you for taking this first step in reaching out for help to build a better life for yourself. I look forward to working with you!

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Carol Derr

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Sterling
Counselor License Type(s): MA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSleeping disordersCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Michigan with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. Clients I have worked with have presented areas of concern including relationship issues involving marriage, separation and families, stress, anxiety and those working through addiction problems . I have recently spent significant time with members of the military community who are dealing with life issues including anxiety, job stress, and marriages . My therapy style is about problem solving , solution focused and helping to give a person additional tools to problem solve in the future. My approach is a combination of reality - choice therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy. And I help clients to look at life moving forward. It is often difficult to take that first step for change. But if you are not happy are facing a life altering change and looking to find a more satisfying life and want one that is less stressful and more peaceful, I am here to help you with those first steps and offer you support and encouragement. I look forward to working with you!

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Heather Connors

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Sterling
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW, PPSC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years of experience

Hello and Welcome to this Mental Health platform! I am so happy you are here! A little about me... I have been working with individuals 18 years and older for over 12 years. I enjoy what I do because it helps people become the person that they were created to be. I love being a part of something bigger than myself. I feel that working with you will give me the opportunity to help you help yourself and possibly others around you. My goal is to help you understand what healthy is, and give you tools to be that for yourself, and to hold boundaries, so you don't take less than healthy from others either. I want to help you with communication skills, and conflict skills with others as well. Understand yourself better, and help you manage your feelings, without your feelings managing you. Giving me the opportunity to be in your life to assist you in your life's journey is a pleasure and honor. I know you already have talents and gifts within you that were meant for a higher purpose. I just want to help you develop those tools already in you to help you function well in life and be the best you, you can be. I do this by encompassing evidence based therapeutic tactics and other tools. I will help you dive deep into ways to emotionally cope with stressful situations. I will assist you get passed any barriers that may be standing in your way in order for you to function positively in society. Thank you for giving me the opportunity. I look forward to working with you!

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Patrice LaGrand

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Sterling
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 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. 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 a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Amaryllis Thomas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Sterling
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, and abuse survivor issues. 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!

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Patricia Van de Vyver

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Sterling
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Thank you for taking the time to read about what I have to offer for your upcoming therapy experience. It is truly an honor to have spent over five years working in this field, partnering with people on their journeys of healing and growth. Whatever your personal goals entail, I would truly enjoy being a part of that process with you. The self-discovery that takes place in therapy is quite rewarding and you deserve to be able to experience it. I believe in creating an environment that is judgement free and unconditionally accepting. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I can be flexible with scheduling, so feel free to reach out and we can determine times that work best.

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Joyce Harris

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Sterling
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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Bridget Eagleson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Sterling
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCompassion fatigue
3 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, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Sterling

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

Therapists in Sterling, 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 Sterling 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 Sterling 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 Sterling 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 Sterling?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Sterling 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 Sterling 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 Sterling 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 48659 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 Sterling counselor?

Before seeing your Sterling 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. Sterling 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 Sterling 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 Sterling 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 Sterling, 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.

Sterling 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 Sterling, 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 Sterling 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 Sterling.

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

48659

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