Professional. Effective. Caring.

We create solutions. 

Care customized for you. 

Welcome to Grand Rapids Counseling, conveniently located near Cascade Road and I-96 in Grand Rapids, MI. Here, our counselors know that therapy is not just about mental health: it’s about creating solutions for your life in a non-judgemental environment. It’s about finding joy in life and relationships once again. Our mission is to help our clients accomplish their goals in a non-judgmental, compassionate, and effective way.

We aim to educate our clients in a safe environment while offering them the necessary tools to overcome a myriad of concerns. We understand that many people have hesitations or anxieties about entering counseling, so we created a soothing environment and a scheduling system that never keeps you waiting long. We also want you to know that we will honor your belief system, culture, religion, spirituality, philosophy, and lifestyle. We customize your counseling treatment to you--we honor you as a person. By combining the latest counseling training with traditional techniques, we give our clients the best care in the West Michigan.

Paul Krauss, MA LPC 

Hailing from Lansing, Michigan, Paul Krauss brings 10 years of experience working as a counselor in both Phoenix and Chicago to the Grand Rapids community. Paul is passionate about the efficacy of counseling as the best preventative medicine for life concerns and mental health. Paul is an expert in many areas, including utilizing EMDR therapy for recovery from trauma, anxiety, and depression. He is an expert at helping the parents of young adults and teenagers who are having difficulties. When Paul's not empowering his clients, he works on his counseling podcast, plays the piano, reads, bicycling, and enjoys spending time his wife and family. Learn more about Paul here. Call Paul directly at 616-365-5530.

Alexa Bates, LMSW

Alexa Bates, LMSW, is a therapist in Grand Rapids, MI that offers therapy for adults, couples, children and families struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Alexa identifies as a white, cisgender female. Alexa graduated from Western Michigan University with a masters in clinical social work. Alexa spent time during her studies as an intern therapist at a private practice in the area where she spent the majority of her time working with women, couples, and families. Following graduation, Alexa went on to be a community based therapist for Kent County, where she worked extensively with at-risk youth and families. She spent much of her time working with individuals who experienced trauma, and is formally trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Alexa enjoys empowering clients to recognize their strengths and potential in life, and feels honored to partner with them on their healing journey. She welcomes all clients regardless of age, race, gender, or background. Learn more about Alexa here. Call Anna directly at 616-258-6067.

Anna Utter, LLMSW

Anna Utter, LLMSW is a therapist serving all of Michigan through online and in-person therapy. Anna is a graduate from Wayne State University with a Master of Social Work degree. She obtained her Bachelor of Social Work and Minor in Psychology from Grand Valley State University. Anna has continued her education becoming trained in EMDR, TF-CBT and DBT.  Anna provides individual therapy from a trauma-informed lens, specializing in working with survivors of sexual assault and neglect. Although all ages are a pleasure to work with, Anna continues her specialty counseling adolescents, young adults and adults. Her approach is rooted in person-centered, believing there is no one evidence-based modality that fits all. Instead, Anna meets her clients where they are at, acting as a guide who holds the lantern. Learn more about Anna here. Call Anna directly at 616-315-1015.

Ashley Dykstra, LMSW

Ashley Dykstra is a therapist serving all of Michigan through in person therapy in Grand Rapids and online telehealth therapy. Ashley uses she/her pronouns and is married with two children. She is a graduate from Grand Valley State University and has a Master of Social Work degree. Ashley provides individual and family therapy from a trauma-informed lens for children, adolescents, and adults. Her therapeutic experience has been focused in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Solution Focused Therapy. Ashley’s therapy approach is rooted in evidence-based interventions utilizing a strengths-based approach, mindfulness practice focused on the unique individual. Learn more about Ashley here. Call Anna directly at 616-259-5138.

Ben Zimmerman, LLMSW

Ben Zimmerman, LLMSW, is a therapist serving the Grand Rapids, MI area through online telehealth and in-person therapy. Ben is a former chef and utilizes all his past work experiences to provide a grounding therapeutic experience for his clients. Graduating from Louisiana State University with a Master of Social Work degree, Ben provides individual counseling and therapy from a trauma-informed lens. His approach focuses on the client within their environment utilizing open communication, motivational interviewing, and client feedback-informed services. Anger, depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, and substance abuse are some of the areas Ben specializes in. Ben is a white, cis-gendered man that uses he/him pronouns. Learn more about Ben here. Call Ben directly at 616-920-1725.

Brendan Cole, MA LLPC

After spending most of his life between Philadelphia and Minneapolis, Brendan has found his way to Grand Rapids after completing his Masters in Counseling from the North Park University in Chicago. Having developed a passion for helping young adults and adolescents heal and find the best parts of themselves, Brendan uses many techniques including EMDR (Eye Movement, Desensitization, and Reprocessing), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients find clarity and lead healthier lifestyles. Additionally, Brendan has a specialty in working with athletes and their mental game along with performance. In his spare time, Brendan can be found outside playing various sports, working out, drinking coffee, and playing board games with friends. Call Brendan directly at 616-379-9129.

Brittani Decess, MA, LPC

Brittani Decess is a therapist in Grand Rapids, MI. Brittani identifies as a queer cis-gendered white female; uses she/her pronouns. Brittani has worked with a variety of individuals and families across the life span using talk and creative therapies to aid clients in healing and processing. Brittani holds a Bachelor’s degree in Art Therapy and a Master’s Degree in Counseling with a focus on Marriage, Couples, and Families.  Brittani has several years of trauma-informed work including facilitating a Cognitive-Behavoral-Therapy curriculum to youth in the court system, being a public speaker and educator on topics related to sexual assault and domestic violence, and counseling children, teens, and caregivers moving through the adoption and foster care system before coming to Health for Life Grand Rapids. Brittani specializes in topics and issues related to lifespan changes/transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics (couples, families, and other relationship groupings), attachment, communication, self-esteem, LGBTQ+ , sexuality and intimacy, and impacts of unhelpful social narratives. Brittani approaches therapy by working towards processing the meaning of experiences by exploring the intersectionality of cultural identities and how connections to people, places, and events have impacted the client(s) mental health and other areas most important to them. Learn more about Brittani here, or contact her directly at 616-287-5807.

Caitlin Quantock, LMSW, CAADC

Caitlin Quantock (she/her) is a licensed social worker serving adults in person at our Grand Rapids office and across Michigan via telehealth. She studied psychology at Michigan State University and obtained her Master of Social Work degree from Grand Valley State University. Caitlin gained her clinical experience at non-profit agencies where she served individuals struggling with substance use disorders, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. She also has the privilege of teaching social work college courses and volunteering on crisis intervention teams. Caitlin specializes in using mindfulness-based cognitive therapies and somatic practices along with EMDR for trauma processing. She has also experienced the benefits of Internal Family Systems first-hand and is pleased to offer services using this theory to engage clients in deep healing of their emotional wounds. Caitlin enjoys working with individuals identifying as LGBTQIA+, those curious about or practicing non-monogamy, and does not believe in “TMI” when it comes to therapy. Learn more about Caitlin here.

Caley Weisgerber, LMSW

Caley Weisgerber, LMSW, identifies as a white cisgender, progressive Catholic woman who currently is in a closed monogamous relationship.  Her practice is sex-positive and gender-affirming. Caley loves to utilize mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy skills to help people who are struggling through negative patterns and move from surviving to thriving. Caley is an advocate for all people and works to empower them through education. Caley is also trained in Internal Family Systems and works with people to get to the emotional roots that may be difficult for them, so that they can fully express themselves and get their needs met.  Learn more about Caley here, or contact her directly at 616-425-9497.

Dana Kennedy, LLMSW

Dana Kennedy, LLMSW, is a relational therapist serving the Grand Rapids area and all of Michigan through online telehealth therapy. She has a Masters degree in Social Work from Grand Valley State University, and has been practicing social work for over 6 years. Dana provides individual and family therapy from a trauma-focused, strengths based approach, and her background is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Ecological counseling. Her practice is rooted in the power of relationships, authenticity, and compassion.  Learn more about Dana here, or contact her directly at 616-425-9497.

Elif Piromari, LLMSW

Elif Piromari, LLMSW, is a therapist serving all of Michigan through online telehealth therapy, as well as a presence in Grand Rapids and the West Michigan area. Elif is a recent graduate from Auburn University with her degree in Master of Social Work. Elif provides individual counseling and therapy from a trauma-informed lens for children, adolescents, and adults. Her therapeutic experience has mostly focused on Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy working with child victims of abuse and neglect. Elif’s counseling approach is rooted in evidence-based interventions including holistic approach, implementing mindfulness, and behavioral strategies. Elif welcomes all individuals regardless of their age, background, and struggles.  Learn more about Elif here, or contact her directly at 616-258-6869.

Gabby Cook, LMSW, MA

Gabby Cook, LMSW, is a therapist serving all of Michigan through online telehealth therapy. Gabby is a white, cis-gendered woman that uses she/her pronouns. Gabby is a graduate of Michigan State University and has a Master of Social Work degree with a certificate program in Evidence-Based Trauma Treatment. Gabby provides individual counseling and therapy from a trauma-informed lens for adults. Her therapeutic experience has mostly focused on Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Gabby’s counseling approach is rooted in evidence-based interventions utilizing a strengths-based approach in addition to behavioral interventions and mindfulness practices.  Learn more about Gabby here, or contact her directly at 616-287-0887.

James Love, LLMSW

James Love, LLMSW, graduated from Fordham University in The Bronx, New York, and also holds a Masters from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA. With multiple years of experience in spiritual direction, James shifted to focus on individual and family therapy. He specializes in men’s mental health, family-oriented treatment, spirituality and grief. James has experiences working with clients from a variety of backgrounds with quite different needs. Learn more about James here, or contact her directly at 616-426-2189.

Jennifer McKinstry, MA, LPC

Jennifer McKinstry, LPC, is a therapist in Grand Rapids, MI offering personalized therapy to individuals. Jennifer provides a safe and non-judgmental environment, including experience in working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. Jennifer has extensive experience in the area of sexuality, sexual violence, and spiritual issues, including spiritual abuse and faith reconstruction. Jennifer believes in helping others become the best version of themselves, and that the journey towards wholeness is always worth it. Learn more about Jennifer here, or contact her directly at 616-287-4057.

Jonathan Swiftney, LLMSW

Jonathan Swiftney, LLMSW, is a Master’s level Social Worker and licensed therapist. He earned his degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University in 2016, and has experience working with adults, teenagers, and families in non-profit and private practice settings. His approach to therapy is person-centered, collaborative, and strengths based to meet the unique needs of each individual. Jonathan draws from a variety of evidence-based interventions to address anxiety, depression, spiritual issues, refugees, trauma, self-harm, and relationship difficulties.  He is LGBTQIA+ affirming, and emphasizes building a strong therapeutic relationship by creating a safe, non-judgemental space for people to explore, heal, and grow. Learn more about Jonathan here, or contact him directly at 616-929-0066.

K’Quiana Griffin-Knowling, MA LPC

K’Quiana Griffin-Knowling MA LPC is a therapist in Grand Rapids, MI who specializes in recovery from trauma, abuse, neglect, substance issues, and helps anyone who is going through a difficult time. K’Quiana has experience helping people who have been marginalized by society and have experienced chronic illnesses. K’Quiana believes in people and she can help you believe in yourself. K’Quiana also has extensive experience counseling people on practical solutions for mental health, as well as parenting and career issues. Learn more about K’Quiana here, or contact her directly at 616-466-4404.

Kathryn Barcelona, MS LMSW

Kathryn Barcelona, LMSW, is a therapist in Grand Rapids, MI that offers therapy for adults and families struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use recovery, or terminal illness. Kathryn identifies as a white, cisgender female who is currently in a closed, monogamous relationship. As a recent graduate from Western Michigan University, Kathryn graduated with a specialty certificate in alcohol and drug abuse as well as a holistic health emphasis. Kathryn spent time during her studies with elementary-aged children as well as women in early recovery from alcohol and drug abuse. Kathryn has almost a decade of experience working with elderly and disabled individuals including hospice patients in a home healthcare setting. Kathryn enjoys motivating clients and giving them the tools to make changes in their own lives. Kathryn is available and welcomes all clients regardless of age, race, gender, background, or struggle. Learn more about Kathryn here, or contact her directly at 616-259-0234.

Katy Jaramillo, MEd, LPC, ATR-P

Katy Jaramillo MEd, LPC, ATR-P is a counselor and provisional art therapist serving the Grand Rapids and West Michigan area. Katy’s counseling approach is creative, person-centered, strength-based, trauma-informed, and existential. Katy Jaramillo is a White-Hispanic cisgender woman with the lived experience of her own neurological recovery. She is a passionate ally to underrepresented communities and is interested in helping people of all races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, genders, and abilities. Learn more about Katy here, or contact her directly at 616-320-4089.

Katy Sandison, LLP

Katy Sandison, LLP, is a Master’s level psychologist and licensed therapist. She earned her degree in Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University in 2020 and has experience working with adults, teenagers, and families in community mental health and private practice settings. Her approach to therapy is person-centered, collaborative, and strengths-based to meet the unique needs of each individual. Katy draws from a variety of evidence-based interventions to address anxiety, depression, spiritual issues, self-esteem and body image concerns, trauma, self-harm, and relationship difficulties.  She is LGBTQIA+ affirming, and emphasizes building a strong therapeutic relationship by creating a safe, non-judgemental space for people to explore, heal, and grow.
Learn more about Katy here, or contact her directly at 616-710-1861.

Kay Foster, MA LPC

Kay Foster, MA LPC is a therapist serving the Grand Rapids and West Michigan area. Kay provides inclusive counseling and therapy from a trauma-informed lens. She has work expertise and training in sex-related concerns. Kay’s counseling approach is rooted in existential-humanistic philosophies, and she takes a collaborative approach to treatment. She has experience with Anxiety and Anxiety-Related Disorders, Mood Disorders, Trauma and Trauma-Related Disorders, and Sex-Related Concerns. She takes a holistic approach to counseling, implementing mindfulness, behavioral strategies, and eclectic techniques. Learn more about Kay here, or contact her directly at 616-259-0120.

Kori Crask, LMSW

Kori Crask, LMSW is a therapist serving the Ada and Grand Rapids, MI communities and serving all of Michigan through online telehealth therapy. Kori is a graduate of Michigan State University and has a Master of Social Work degree. Kori provides individual counseling and therapy from a trauma-informed lens for adults. Her therapeutic experience has mostly focused on serving those with PTSD utilizing Cognitive processing therapy and EMDR. Kori’s counseling approach is rooted in evidence-based interventions utilizing CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). Kori also works from a systems and narrative therapy framework. Learn more about Kori here, or contact her directly at 616-929-0099.

Lauren Huisman-Woy

Lauren Huisman-Woy, is a therapist in Ada, MI that offers therapy for adults, teens, children and families dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, and behavioral concerns. Lauren has over 7 years of experience as a therapist. Lauren is trained in EMDR Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, the CE-CERT model among other advanced modalities. Lauren graduated from GVSU with a Master’s of Social Work and has served as an in-home therapist, outpatient clinic therapist, supervisor, and trauma therapist.  Lauren enjoys empowering children and adult clients alike to use their strengths and to overcome the trauma. She welcomes all clients regardless of age, race, gender, or background. Learn more about Lauren here, or contact her directly at 616-320-1344.

Lindsey “hails” from Ann Arbor, Michigan where she spent most of her life. It was in her beloved Tree Town she learned not to spend too much energy “searching amongst the branches for what only appears in the roots” - Rumi. Lindsey is passionate about utilizing EMDR therapy, inner child work and mindfulness techniques such as are found in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy to empower others to discover the strengths inside them that they didn’t see and to write a better story for their futures. She is also passionate about preventative health by providing new tools to children and young people before trauma occurs or is repeated. When Lindsey is not seeing clients or at work she is either investigating deeper into her clinical and psychological interests, spending time in nature, especially around water, having long thoughtful conversations with close friends, or engaging in her many creative outlets. Lindsey relentlessly believes in her clients and believes that each of them has the capacity to heal, grow and live a fulfilling and meaningful life. Learn more about Lindsey here, or contact her directly at 734-210-0775.

Megan Drizin, LLPC

Megan Drizin, LLPC is a counselor in Grand Rapids, MI that offers Telehealth therapy services to West Michigan Families. Megan is a married mother of one who is dedicated to helping any individual, regardless of race, religion, background, or experience, overcome their struggles and create their ultimate life worth living. Learn more about Megan here, or contact her directly at 616-730-2052.

Melissa Wade, LMSW, MA

Melissa Wade LMSW is a Licensed Master’s Level Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the field.  She most recently held a position as a school social worker, where she facilitated individual, small group, and whole classroom social/emotional/behavioral skills lessons. Melissa specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. Her approach is rooted in psychoeducation, goal setting, CBT, and skills building, and is strength-based!  Melissa uses a variety of evidence-based interventions and strategies that start with building a safe, trusting relationship.  Melissa is LGBTQIA+ affirming. Learn more about Melissa here, or contact her directly at 616-426-9018.

Michael Egan, LMSW

Michael Egan, LMSW, is a therapist serving the West Michigan and Grand Rapids and Ada, MI communities. Michael is bi-lingual and is able to provide counseling sessions in both English and Spanish. In addition, Michael serves all of Michigan through online telehealth therapy. Michael provides individual counseling and therapy from a trauma-informed lens for teenagers and adults. Michael focuses on utilizing a holistic approach to therapy through a trauma-informed lens to help all people in deep ways. Michael has experience working with those suffering from issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationship and family issues, anger, as well as substance use disorders. Learn more about Michael here, or contact him directly at 616-929-0502.

Natalie Julien LMSW

Natalie grew up in Grand Rapids and attended Grand Valley State University. After moving to New Orleans post-undergrad, she found herself back home to pursue a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from Western Michigan University. She is inspired by the holistic and mental health community in Grand Rapids and is passionate about working with children and individuals with a history of trauma. Natalie is excited to work with those individuals to break the cycles of trauma and build a life where they can thrive. When she is not helping clients reach their full potential, she is going on adventures with her daughter, doing yoga, and making her own eco-friendly heath and cleaning products. Learn more about Natalie here, or contact her directly at 616-426-2157.

Nick Kondyles, LLPC MA

Nick Kondyles, LLPC MA is a therapist serving the Grand Rapids, MI area in person as well as the entire State of Michigan via teletherapy. Nick accepts most health insurance plans. Nick’s specialties are in anxiety, depression, relational issues and identity exploration. He enjoys working with adolescents, adults, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community. He is also interested in serving those experiencing grief and loss, substance use and career development employing interventions such as legacy life review and visiting issues like work/life balance. Nick endeavors to serve those parenting or dealing with relationship struggles, providing supportive services such as learning different communication skills and others in the interpersonal domain. Learn more about Nick here, or contact her directly at 616-259-4462.

Nicole Cass, LMSW

Nicole Cass, LMSW is a counselor in Grand Rapids, MI specializing in topics and issues related to trauma, anxiety, depression, attachment, communication, self-esteem, LGBTQA+, and sexuality. In addition to these specialties, Nicole also has a wide range of experience working with individuals with attention deficit disorders and Autism Spectrum disorder. Learn more about Nicole here, or contact her directly at 616-320-4502.

Sarah Denick, LMSW

Sarah Denick, LMSW, has practiced in West Michigan within the social work field since 2015. Her therapeutic work has mostly focused on children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, as well as their families and other community partners. Sarah is passionate about working with those who have experienced trauma, especially those who have experienced sexual trauma. Sarah is trained in several therapeutic approaches, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR Therapy, expressive arts therapy, and play therapy. When she isn’t spending time with her cat, Pooka, you may find Sarah playing the piano, or reading a mystery novel. Learn more about Sarah here, or contact her directly at 616-287-0883.

Shanna Beebe, MA, LPC

Shanna Beebe MA LPC is a therapist working in Grand Rapids, MI. Shanna has experience working with LGBTQIA+ people, non-binary people, individuals leaving abusive situations, pregnant individuals, and those seeking support after experiencing religious trauma/ spiritual abuse. She enjoys utilizing dance and movement modalities, nature-based interventions, and mindfulness-based approaches to wellness. Learn more about Shanna here, or contact her directly at 616-920-0246.

Taylor Freund, LMSW

Taylor Freund, LMSW, graduated from Northern Michigan University majoring in Psychology in 2014. She earned a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Western Michigan University with a Trauma Specialty certification in 2018. She has experience with individual therapy, family therapy, and couple’s work at Arbor Circle. At Pine Rest in the Partial Hospitalization Program, she was a group therapist for two years and also taught and created materials for mental health classes. She is fully licensed and believes learning is a lifelong endeavor. Learn more about Taylor here, or contact her directly at 616-259-5161.

Taylor Howell, LLMSW

Taylor Howell, LLMSW is a therapist serving the Grand Rapids, MI area and also all of Michigan through telehealth. Taylor graduated from Grand Valley State University for her Bachelor’s of psychology and Masters of Social Work. She is passionate about using a person centered, holistic, and integrative approach to counseling that acknowledges the inherent connection between the mind and body. She has experience working with adults who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, family issues, and life transitions. Learn more about Taylor here, or contact her directly at 616-466-4987.

Taylor Mize, LLPC, LLMFT

Taylor Mize, LLPC, LLMFT is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor who is also licensed as a Marriage and Family Counselor. She is particularly interested in helping relationships blossom and providing trauma-informed care for clients who struggle with the effects of  Intimate Partner Violence. Taylor also helps those who suffer from anxiety disorders, stress, emotional distress, trauma, and PTSD. Taylor has obtained her Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology and is dedicated to advocating for all she works with. Learn more about Taylor here, or contact her directly at 616-379-9353.

Thomcy Thomas, LLPC

Thomcy Mary Thomas, M.A. LLPC (she/her/hers), is an international doctoral student in the Counselor Education and Supervision program at Western Michigan University (WMU). After securing her Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from WMU in 2020, Thomcy now anticipates graduating from her Ph.D. program in the Fall of 2024. Thomcy’s research endeavors are imbued with a strong focus on multiculturalism, leadership development, mindfulness, and self-care. This distinctive blend of interests underpins her dedicated contributions to the field, particularly in shaping the educational journey of counselors-in-training. Learn more about Thomcy here, or contact her directly at 616-803-9788.