Find a Therapist in East Lansing, MI

Kathryn Wachowski, LMSW, is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and Therapist committed to enhancing the emotional, physical, and mental well-being of her clients. Recognizing that life's challenges, such as past traumas, transitions, and stress, can significantly impact individuals, Kathryn provides a nurturing environment where her clients can explore and identify their emotions. She specializes in therapy approaches including Positive Psychology, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), among others, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. With over 15 years of experience in strengths-based counseling, she has successfully assisted children, teens, adults, and families in overcoming issues related to depression, anxiety, and behavioral concerns. Her extensive background includes community-based family counseling and collaboration with various agencies to deliver Evidence Based Treatments. Kathryn views it as a privilege to connect with individuals and families as they navigate the complexities of life, helping them develop effective strategies for growth and resilience.

Peggy Barnes is a compassionate and experienced Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, holding an LMSW and MSW, who graduated in 1988 from Michigan State University. With a deep commitment to supporting adults and elders, she excels in addressing challenges related to Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship Issues. Peggy specializes in both individual and couples counseling, creating a safe and welcoming space for her clients, regardless of their sexual orientation. Her dedication to fostering genuine connections and guiding her clients through life's complexities is at the heart of her practice. Peggy believes in the transformative power of therapy and is passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate their unique journeys toward emotional well-being.

Beth McWhorter is a dedicated counselor known for her compassionate and culturally sensitive approach to therapy. With a Master's degree in Counseling from Michigan State University, which she completed in 1992, she has cultivated an extensive skill set that helps her connect meaningfully with her clients. Beth specializes in working with adults and elders, particularly those grappling with stress, mood disorders, and women's issues. Her therapeutic offerings range from Compassion Focused and Client-Centered therapy to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology. Whether addressing individual challenges, nurturing relationships, or fostering family dynamics, Beth's eclectic and humanistic approach empowers her clients to pursue personal growth and find balance in their lives. Her commitment to creating a supportive environment resonates deeply with those seeking meaningful change and understanding.

Michael Bunker is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and therapist, holding an LMSW credential, known for his strong commitment to supporting children (ages 5 and older), teens, young adults, and parents. With a strength-based and trauma-informed approach, he has been collaborating with diverse individuals in the community since 2011. Michael is passionate about helping clients navigate life's obstacles, empowering them on their journey toward healing and personal growth. He possesses extensive experience in working with children and parents, specializing in childhood trauma and PTSD. State certified in TF-CBT, Michael is well-versed in addressing a variety of conditions, including childhood traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, family changes, family conflict, and behavioral health issues, as well as fostering and adoption challenges. Recognizing that seeking support can be daunting, Michael is committed to walking alongside his clients as they navigate the therapeutic process. He eagerly anticipates the opportunity to work together with clients and their families on their path to resilience and wellbeing.

Michelle Adams, MA, LPC, is a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor who understands that seeking help with life's stressors can be a daunting task. With numerous years of multi-discipline counseling experience, Michelle is committed to facilitating her clients' healing through the development of a collaborative therapeutic relationship. In her warm and supportive environment, individuals find comfort in sharing their stories and moving forward to achieve their personal goals and unlock their individual potential. Michelle possesses a broad combination of knowledge and skills, enabling her to assist clients with a wide array of emotional and behavioral issues. She approaches each client's needs individually and utilizes various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, strength-based practices, and mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques. Specializing in working with adults facing anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, life transitions, and dual diagnosis, Michelle strives to provide the compassionate support and guidance that her clients deserve.

Deena Agree is a seasoned Clinical Social Worker and therapist whose extensive experience enriches her practice. Known for her empathic and respectful listening skills, Deena actively collaborates with her clients in the therapeutic journey, bringing valuable insights to the table when beneficial. She utilizes an eclectic approach to therapy that is both trauma-informed and experiential, incorporating various modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR). Deena works with individuals, couples, and families, addressing a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem, identity, attachment, grief and loss, women’s issues, LGBTQ+ challenges, and relationship dynamics. Her commitment to culturally sensitive and inclusive therapy ensures that every client feels heard and understood.

Michele Alaine Pischea is a Limited Licensed Psychologist (MA, LLP, CAADC) who takes a collaborative, holistic, and growth-oriented approach in her therapy practice. She recognizes the importance of building on her clients' strengths, successes, and positive experiences, while also acknowledging and addressing the influences of their past. Michele is dedicated to fostering a supportive, caring, and honest therapeutic relationship based on mutual respect, which creates an environment conducive to achieving personally established goals. It is fulfilling for her to guide clients as they identify and strengthen their motivation for change, ensuring that such change aligns with their values and concerns, thereby laying a foundation for sustainable growth. Michele specializes in helping individuals navigate significant life changes, stress, low self-esteem, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and addiction recovery. With her expertise as a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) through the Michigan Certification Board of Addiction Professionals, she is well-equipped to support her clients' journeys. Michele looks forward to collaborating with individuals and couples to help them achieve their goals in a revitalizing, therapeutic environment.

Basak Amelia Khamush is a dedicated Psychologist with a PhD and a passion for facilitating healing. She believes that every therapy session serves as a golden opportunity to dismantle the barriers of judgment and shame that often hinder self-knowledge, self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-appreciation. With substantial experience and enthusiasm for working with adults facing challenges such as eating disorders, body image concerns, OCD, and anxiety, Basak applies a psychodynamic, interpersonal, and spiritual approach to her practice. She integrates her extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy into her sessions. Currently, she is in the process of becoming a certified clinical hypnotherapist through the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH). Basak has had the privilege of working with a diverse clientele, offering her expertise to individuals from various cultural backgrounds, including Eastern and Western European, Balkan, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Central Asian, South Asian, and East Asian regions.

Dr. Elizabeth Ann Waiess is a dedicated psychologist with over 30 years of experience in the field of therapy. She skillfully assists individuals facing challenges related to work, education, relationships, and overall enjoyment of life. Her therapeutic approach combines psychoanalytic and psychodynamic principles, allowing her to tailor her methods to meet the unique needs of each client. Dr. Waiess primarily works with adults, offering both short-term therapy options and ongoing treatment for those recovering from trauma and other complex situations. She is committed to providing a supportive and empathetic environment for her clients as they navigate their paths towards healing and fulfillment.

Barbara Atshaves is a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor who understands that reaching out for support during challenging times can be difficult. With extensive experience, she provides a person-centered approach to individuals from various backgrounds facing struggles with depression, anxiety, PTSD, addictions, and domestic violence. Barbara is certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), hypnotherapy, and ear acupuncture, techniques designed to alleviate trauma, stress, and anxiety, particularly beneficial for students grappling with exam stress. Her trainings in Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy equip her to deliver effective therapeutic solutions tailored to each client’s needs. Furthermore, she holds certifications to counsel individuals with substance use disorders and is dedicated to helping her clients achieve their personal goals. Barbara's holistic methods, which include mindfulness-based practices and culturally sensitive approaches, enable her to create a supportive environment for healing and growth.

Sara Dupuis is a compassionate Marriage & Family Therapist, possessing a PhD and licensure as a Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist, with specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART at Master Level), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). She understands that relationships significantly impact daily lives and that when relational dynamics become strained, it can be incredibly overwhelming. Sara adeptly works with individuals, couples, and families to facilitate healing from relational hurts and trauma. Her focus includes trauma recovery, sexual dysfunction, and infidelity, alongside assistance for those navigating the complexities of divorce and remarriage. With several publications in her field, Sara is also recognized as an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and is passionate about guiding clients through their journey of relationship restoration and trauma recovery.

Dr. Shelley Smithson is a compassionate psychologist with a PhD and MSW, specializing in therapeutic support for adults and elders aged 65 and above. With a keen understanding of complex emotional landscapes, she expertly navigates challenges such as depression, eating disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Dr. Smithson utilizes a diverse array of therapy types, including psychodynamic, emotionally focused, and attachment-based approaches, ensuring each client's unique needs are met. Her warm and humanistic methodology is reflected in her work with individuals, couples, and families, fostering deep connections and providing a safe space for healing and growth.

Courtney Bacigal is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist who believes in the power of individuals to shape their own futures. With a deep understanding that people often need guidance and support during their journeys, Courtney provides the encouragement necessary for her clients to identify their strengths and embrace their individuality. She works collaboratively with preteens, teens, and adults to navigate various struggles, helping them discover effective strategies to overcome life's challenges. By focusing on internal strengths and fostering a positive self-view, Courtney empowers her clients to cultivate resilience and confidence. Her journey into therapy began at Michigan State University, where she earned her undergraduate degree, followed by a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Chicago at Illinois.