Mason, MI Local Support & Community Resources

Mary Skene is a passionate clinical social worker and therapist who believes in the transformative power of animal-assisted therapy. As the founder of Rescuing Each Other Animal-Assisted Therapy (REO AAT), she fosters an environment where individuals—both young and old—can overcome mental health barriers with the support of certified professional therapy dogs. Mary works with children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a wide range of concerns including anger, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ support, and trauma, among others. Her holistic approach to treatment encompasses a variety of techniques tailored to meet each client's unique needs. With a deep understanding of the human-animal bond, Mary has been collaborating with animals since 2012, bringing joy and engagement to therapeutic interventions. At REO AAT, clients experience all the benefits of traditional outpatient therapy with the delightful addition of animal-assisted support. For those ready to embark on a journey of personal growth, Mary is eager to guide them with compassion and a wagging tail by their side.

Susan Cumings, a dedicated counselor with a M.A. in Counseling from Westminster Theological Seminary, offers a compassionate and authentic approach to mental health therapy. Known for her collaborative spirit, she provides a supportive space that allows clients to explore their concerns and find hope and meaning during times of difficulty and stress. Utilizing a strengths-based and solution-focused methodology, Susan empowers individuals to recognize their inner strengths and empowers them to select the most appropriate therapy plans tailored to their shared goals. With extensive experience, she assists clients facing challenges such as grief, anger management, crisis pregnancy, chronic pain and illness, childhood sexual abuse, separation and divorce, and Reactive Attachment Disorder. Her expertise extends to working with at-risk teens and survivors of rape, abuse, and trauma. In addition to her formal education, she has pursued advanced training in pre and post adoption support, play therapy, ADHD, and marriage counseling. For those who prioritize their faith in decision-making and life events, Susan provides Christian Counseling, helping clients live fulfilling lives according to their spiritual beliefs while navigating life's challenges.

Lauren Frey is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist who collaborates with children (ages 0-10), parents, and families to navigate emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. Her expertise encompasses vital areas such as self-esteem, social skills, relationships with peers and family, self-regulation, life transitions, and coping mechanisms. Lauren displays a deep commitment to supporting those dealing with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD. Utilizing an integrative, ecosystemic play therapy approach, her sessions often incorporate play and art-based interventions tailored to each child’s developmental stage and interests. When suitable, Lauren engages with teachers, healthcare providers, and various agencies to advocate for families and coordinate comprehensive treatment plans.