about Kelly

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I help children, teens, and adults experiencing grief and
loss, trauma, and anxiety. I support Moms who are struggling with mood and anxiety before and after the birth of their babies and ongoing.  Other areas of interest include supporting children and teens with anaphylactic food allergies and families navigating LGBTQIA issues.

My philosophy about therapy is that we are all human and could benefit from time carved out of the busyness of daily life to catch our breath and be truly seen and heard.  I see my role as a supportive partner in honoring where our struggles are and finding a way forward that is flexible and moves us closer to the kind of person we want to be.  I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches and have specialized training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children and teens who have experienced trauma. I have specialized training in working with Moms and Dads experiencing postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (that’s right, Dads can experience this too!).  Much of my career has been spent companioning children, teens, and adults experiencing grief and loss due to death and other life transitions, including life threatening and complex medical conditions.  Children and teens can benefit from my experienced and specialized training in play therapy and sand tray therapy.  I find it truly such a privilege to sit with people in their stories.  To make space for the joy and the pain.

I’m originally from Lansing, Michigan and moved to Grand Rapids in 2009.  I received my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2001, and my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Michigan State University in 2002.  I love living this messy life with my husband, two school-aged kids, and mini goldendoodle.  I can be found taking a walk, enjoying coffee with friends, attempting yoga, laughing with my kids and trying to stay awake to watch Netflix at night.  If I could have any super power it would be to put a new book under my pillow every night and meaningfully absorb the contents in my sleep. 


Contact

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