Dr. Dan Zomerlei, PhD, MDIV, LMFT - Principal Partner

Dan Zomerlei is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and graduate of Hope College, Fuller Theological Seminary, and Michigan State University. Dan’s approach to therapy emphasizes relationships, both past and present, as a source of change and healing. This approach is effective for marriage and family issues as well as individual needs such as depression and anxiety. Dan has advanced training and/or specializations in: depression, anxiety, couples therapy, post-traumatic stress disorder, family and individual resilience, and issues related to managing health and illness.

David Burke, LPC - Principal Partner

David Burke is a licensed professional counselor and certified coach based in Grandville, Michigan. He works with couples and individuals to facilitate creative solutions to challenges they face. David earned his Bachelors of Communications at Cedarville University, and his Masters of Counseling at Cornerstone University. David is trained in mediation, Emotional Focused Therapy and is a certified coach from Human Potential Institute. David is married to Angela and has two daughters. He has 15 years of experience providing professional counseling in West Michigan. David’s specialities include: relationship counseling, counseling through infidelity and other marital distress. David’s approach is hope focused, with an aim to find solutions to difficult situations.

Julie Buttelwerth, LLMSW

If you are feeling like you are drowning in the stressors of everyday life, are struggling to cope with difficult moments of the past, feel defeated by challenging relationships and are looking for compassion, support, and solutions, then you have come to the right place. It is my life passion to support those who are facing dark and challenging moments in their life, and I am humbled to be present with you throughout this journey.

As your therapist, I provide evidence-based and targeted behavioral interventions such as EMDR, IFS, TF-CBT, and Motivational Interviewing. In addition, I enjoy integrating research-supported mindfulness strategies and positive psychology along with an understanding of how early childhood experiences impact us later in life. Majority of my professional experience entails working with those whose trauma has created challenging barriers in their day-to-day life. I believe my extensive training and knowledge on trauma has heavily contributed to my success as a clinician when working with those who have been diagnosed with PTSD, as well as others who are involved with domestic violence, sexual abuse, and more.

I am an avid believer that every individual is unique and an expert of their own life and I am committed to customizing a treatment plan with you that will best meet your unique life experiences and treatment goals.

Throughout this therapeutic relationship, I help clients become more aware of their own inner dialogue with a focus on getting to the root of maladaptive patterns and behaviors, healing past wounds, and developing strategies for relating to themselves and others in a more effective, kind, and adaptive way. With compassion for your struggles and a strong belief in collaboration between therapist and client, I help clients nurture own self-compassion, self-awareness, and ultimately lead more fulfilled and peaceful lives.

Prior to working in private practice, I worked as a school-based therapist and also worked in corporate mental health. I primarily worked directly with executives, CEOs and large workgroups, mitigating and consulting how employees can most effectively move forward in life following traumatic events such as mass shootings, workplace death and workplace violence. I also have clinical experience facilitating evidenced-based groups for child and adolescent students as well, addressing topics such as conflict resolution, grief and loss, anger management, social development skills, self-esteem, self-harm, and coping with depression. I decided to transition back into a direct practice role because I felt called to work closer within the Grand Rapids community and help bring peace to those who are struggling in our area. I am committed to creating a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship with each of my clients and would be privileged to embark on this journey with you.

Kim O'Hearn, LMSW

Kim is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about connecting with individuals who desire to live a well-balanced and authentic life. It takes a lot of courage to open up about issues you are facing and Kim creates a compassionate and safe environment to explore those vulnerable thoughts, feelings and experiences. She has expertise in working with individuals with anxiety, depression, communication, trauma, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMAD) and medical issues. Other areas of interest include life transitions, self-awareness and personal growth. In therapy, Kim draws skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Kim is fully trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Kim graduated from Grand Valley State University with her Bachelors in Behavioral Science and Western Michigan University with her Masters of Social Work. Kim also has experience in child welfare and healthcare.

Kristen Barry, LMSW

Kristen believes in the power of connection and relationships to promote positive changes in one’s life and situation, regardless of past experience. Kristen earned her Master’s in Social Work from The Ohio State University and Bachelor’s in Social Work from The University of Toledo. Kristen has worked with youth in a variety of settings: private group practice, community mental health, educational treatment programs, residential treatment, and with educational institutions. Kristen aspires to join with youth and family members, and to work collaboratively to build on and reinforce current strengths and successes in order to make positive changes across all aspects of life. Kristen’s therapeutic approach has a foundation in building a healthy relationship that is grounded in the values of safety and respect while mindfully applying principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and using play in order to promote positive, empowering change.
Over the last decade, Kristen has developed specialized clinical skills through her experiences working with individuals and families with early childhood to adolescent difficulties. Kristen has helped families obtain better balance while struggling with distressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, social/peer issues, difficulty at school, behavior problems, ADHD, and developmental delays. Kristen has developed competency in understanding youth and their families’ individualistic relational challenges with separation, divorce, and co-parenting. Kristen helps youth, and their families, in developing skills and tools to increase the likelihood of success in all settings and environments. Kristen believes that regardless of "why" a youth or family is in distress, the family should be met where they are today, then to work collaboratively to leverage the individual and familial strengths to establish or regain integration, balance, and wellness through the process of change.

Ryan Meyers, LMSW

Ryan has more than twelve years of experience in clinical therapy working with children, teens, and adults. Ryan is knowledgeable and skilled in helping clients address delicate topics. Her dedication to providing a healthy, conducive, and comfortable atmosphere helps clients speak freely and engage openly. Ryan is a mother to four children, so she understands the day to day challenges facing families, parents, and children. Ryan employs a joyful, enthusiastic, positive approach to help you achieve the results you are seeking. She has expertise and experience in treating: ADHD, anxiety, body image, bullying, communication issues, depression, emotional eating, medical trauma, relationship issues, parenting, PTSD, school-related issues, self-esteem, and trauma.

Sarah Tuinstra, LPC, NCC

Graduate of Western Michigan University, earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology
at Trinity Graduate School located in Deerfield, IL. Also, a member of the National Board of
Certified Counselors, Inc. 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults.
Have experience working in the child welfare system as well as a medical setting.

I utilize trauma-informed care, understanding that our past experiences can play a significant
role in our lives but also believing that our past does not define who we are as a person, and/or
what we can accomplish in life. Take a non-judgmental, empathetic approach to therapy with a
desire to provide a safe place for individuals to share and find support in their journey.
Experienced in treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, emotional eating,
trauma, domestic violence, family conflict and parenting support.

Reside in West Michigan with spouse and 2 very active sons. Enjoy spending time with family,
traveling, kayaking, hiking and reading.

Dr. Jenna Wierenga, PsyD, LP

Dr. Jenna Wierenga earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and Masters in Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Jenna enjoys working with adults in individual therapy. She is passionate about working with individuals to develop healthy ways of coping with stressors by exploring one’s past experiences and current actions in order to build and maintain a healthy and full life. Jenna is intentional about creating a safe and supportive space by offering a non-judgmental listening ear. She pursued a Masters in Theology as a way to better understand and integrate the spiritual concerns, questions, and doubts that inevitably arise in the face of struggles. She views therapy as a place where you can express your emotions (fear, anger, hurt, pain, doubt, longing, gratitude, etc.). Jenna has interest and expertise in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, stress management, relationship and interpersonal issues, women’s issues, health and medical illness issues, and spiritual or religious issues.

Kimberly Culp, LPC, LLMFT

Kimberly is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who received her Master’s degree in Marriage, Family, and Couples Counseling from Western Michigan University. Kimberly believes that the counseling space should be relaxed, trusting, and authentic. She brings these qualities to the therapy process and uses a variety of therapies and techniques to make each person’s experience unique to his/her needs. Kimberly enjoys helping couples to start their relationship with the best possible foundation (pre-marital counseling), keep a strong marriage on the right track (“counseling tune-up”), or bring a struggling marriage to a more healthy and understanding place (marriage counseling). Kimberly also has experience working with children and adolescents aged 6+ through play and creative activities to deal with issues such as anxiety, depression, social struggles, and life transitions. Kimberly uses Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to aid clients in working through past experiences that are limiting present and future opportunities. Each person has a unique story and Kimberly is eager to help you utilize your learning experiences and start living the joyful story you were meant to live.

Phil Miller, LPC, LLMFT

Phil Miller is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a limited licensed marriage and family therapist (LLMFT). Phil received his bachelor’s degree in Psychology & Nonprofit Administration from Grand Valley State University and his master’s degree in Counselor Education: Marriage & Family Therapy from Western Michigan University. Phil specializes in individual, marital, and family therapy. Phil strongly believes in the importance of creating a counseling space that is both authentic and safe. This counseling environment allows clients to open up to be able to work through all that is going on in life, both currently and in the past. Phil enjoys working with a wide range of individuals from teens to older adulthood. Phil is also passionate about marriage counseling as a way to help couples work through past hurts and issues in order to reach the ultimate goal of a healthy and vibrant marriage. He additionally assists clients in the areas of: anxiety & depression, trauma, couple’s therapy, divorce/co-parenting, men’s issues, foster care/adoption, school issues, and parenting. Phil enjoys fully immersing into the community he works in by making connections with local schools and businesses. Phil and his wife Lorie both are from West Michigan and still currently live here.

Susan Hall, LPC

Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor, working out of our Grand Rapids location. Susan enjoys working with both individuals and couples who are seeking personal growth and emotional healing. She recognizes the importance of providing support and intentional space to explore experiences, clarify emotions and recognize personal strengths. Susan has journeyed beside people exploring issues including adoption, anxiety, divorce recovery, depression, grief, infertility, life transitions, marriage, remarriage and blended families. Susan earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Calvin College and her Master of Arts Degree from Western Michigan University. In addition to counseling, Susan has worked as a social worker interacting with infertile couples, women with unplanned pregnancies, children adopted domestically and internationally, and children recovering from trauma. She has also taught psychology courses at a local university and served on the care staff at a nondenominational church.

Lee Chassee, LPC

Lee is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, and works out of our Byron Center location. She holds a Master’s degree in Counselor Education from Western Michigan University and a Bachelor of Science degree from Ferris State University, in Social Services, specializing in children, youth and delinquency.

Lee cares for her clients from a holistic, client centered perspective, and recognizes and respects your individual needs and circumstances. She will support and empower you to take the lead in your treatment and will guide you in developing a personalized treatment plan to address what concerns you most for the healing process to begin. She will offer a fresh lens for which to view your circumstances and will provide tools for symptom reduction and lasting improvement. She is skilled in treating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and relationship difficulties. She uses evidence based, research proven methods within the therapeutic process.

Her career experience includes work in residential treatment, educational systems, geriatrics, clinical settings, and adoption. Lee has training in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness based stress reduction, and emotionally focused therapy.

Lee is especially interested in Nutritional Psychology. Research shows that nutrition plays a vital role in our mental and physical well-being. She is currently studying to be a Certified Holistic Nutritionist/Health Care Practitioner and plans to use her skills to improve her client’s overall mental and physical well-being.

Laura Swain, LPC, CAADC

Laura is a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC). Laura received her Master’s degree from Western Michigan University. Her focus is on teens and adults who are looking to improve their mental health and well being. Laura has a background working with numerous disorders including: School related issues, medical trauma, self-identity issues, complex trauma, anxiety, and substance use. She also helps those struggling with transitions and change. With a straightforward and honest approach, Laura assists her clients in understanding how their past and the present can create a positive future. Laura understands that taking the first step can be difficult. She places a high emphasis on maintaining a safe and judgement free setting where you are free to be yourself and come as you are.

Brian Sharda, LMSW

Brian Sharda is a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed social worker who enjoys working with individuals of all ages (children, adolescents, adults and older adults), as well as couples and families. He has extensive experience working in multiple systems (medical, legal, mental health, education, child welfare) with clients from a variety of backgrounds and with a wide range of challenges. Brian specializes in concerns related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, secondary trauma, grief and loss, and marriage and family dynamics. He utilizes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems theory, Motivational Interviewing, and narrative therapy. Brian‘s mindfulness-based approach in counseling helps clients increase their own awareness of how stressful circumstances lead to suffering, and how clients may manage their distress more effectively and move toward healing and peace. Additionally, as a foster parent himself, Brian is able to bring a unique counseling perspective to the challenges related to foster care and adoption.

Brittany Stahl, LLPC

Brittany is passionate about walking along side adolescents and young adults as they navigate through their most difficult experiences and emotions. Brittany strives to provide a welcoming environment were individuals feel supported and encouraged to talk about and explore their thoughts, behaviors, and experiences. She enjoys working with clients who have faced trauma or those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief and loss, and natural transitions in life. Brittany graduated from Hope College with her bachelor’s in psychology and went onto Spring Arbor University where she graduated with her Master of Arts in counseling. Her approach to counseling derives from cognitive behavioral therapy which focuses on automatic negative thoughts and cognitive distortions. During this process, thoughts are challenged to ultimately improve emotional regulation and coping strategies.

Dr. Tamara DenBesten, PsyD, LP

Dr. Tamara DenBesten is a Licensed Psychologist who earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She enjoys working with adults in individual, couples, and group therapy. She has extensive experience working with clients with a broad range of problems, ranging but not limited to anxiety, depression, substance use, and adjustment disorders. She also assists clients who struggle with relationship challenges, difficulty with communication, grief and loss, identity/self-esteem issues, stress management, anger issues, difficulty stemming from legal trouble, and problems adjusting to life demands (i.e., work, school, finances).

Dr. DenBesten strives to help individuals feel comfortable with the therapeutic process by creating a supportive, trusting, and a nonjudgmental environment. She believes each person has their own unique story and life experiences. She collaboratively works with clients to understand their therapy needs and treatment goals. Dr. DenBesten is skilled at using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) as a means to help clients gain a fresh perspective on their current circumstances, develop healthier coping strategies, reduce symptoms, and make meaningful life changes.

Chad Boehm, LMSW

Chad is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is a Certified Trauma Focus Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. He is graduate of Hope College and received his Master’s degree from Western Michigan University. Chad’s focus is on developing a safe, trusting and strong therapeutic relationship in order for healing to occur and to have a sense of hope restored. Chad assists individuals and families in creating a personalized “toolbox” to aide in the healing process. He has extensive experience in working with families and adolescents who may be experiencing behavioral challenges, having difficulty in school, anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, anger and difficulties adjusting to changes in their lives. Additionally, he works with adults who may be experiencing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression and adjustment issues. He utilizes a number of therapeutic approaches including: superhero therapy, family therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy and trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy.

Justin Smyly, LLMFT

Justin received his Masters in Clinical Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University in Southern California. Soon after graduating Justin developed a passion for helping couples create deep, long lasting connection and restoring broken bonds. He is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and in continuous pursuit of becoming a leading expert in the field of couples therapy. In addition, Justin utilizes ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) when working with individuals as a way to help them break down barriers and move toward a life they find meaningful and fulfilling.

Justin has a warm and personable style. He prides himself on creating a safe atmosphere, and viewing people he works with as humans to be known rather than problems to be solved.

Erin DeSmet, LMSW

Erin Desmet, LMSW, is a clinical social worker specializing in trauma treatment. Erin takes the time to meet people where they are, build safety and understand them in the context of all their experiences and life story. She uses evidence-based tools to guide people through an exploration of their needs and concerns, supporting people in all life stages as they address the root causes of their troubles.
Erin studied Clinical Social Work with a concentration in Family Social Work at Michigan State University. Since graduate school, she has devoted time to formally studying trauma and its effects on the whole person. Erin is Fully Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as well as Nationally Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT). With these and other approaches, among others, Erin supports those experiencing PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, traumatic grief and loss, and more.
“The past affects the present even without our being aware of it.” - Francine Shapiro

Kristie Hamilton, LPC

Kristie is a Limited License Professional Counselor who has been trained as a Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior therapist along with a certification in Emotion Focused Therapy. She is a graduate of Michigan State University and earned her Master’s Degree in Counseling at Western Michigan University. Kristie’s work experience of 10 years in the child welfare field includes working with children and adults individually with needs including trauma, domestic violence, substance use, parenting support, relationship difficulties and mental health. During therapy, Kristie will focus on your strengths, helping you find solutions that work and are maintainable over time while guiding you in achieving your personal potential. Where you are headed is much more important that what you’ve left behind. Together with the client, Kristie will help you take those next steps to get you to the next level and reach your true potential.

Mark Dyke, LLPC, LLPC

Are you struggling with a relationship or feel your partner does not understand you? Is communication a problem and you don’t know what to do? Are you going through a difficult separation, or trying to put your life back together after a divorce? Are you struggling with children? If you said yes to any of these questions, Mark can help you. He is a professional counselor in the state of Michigan with a master’s degree in counseling from Cornerstone University. Married to Jennifer they raise their five kids in the West Michigan area where they grew up. His focus is on couples and adults struggling with a variety of issues including marriage struggles, anxiety, communication, divorce, careers, finances, parenting, forgiveness and many others. For more information, visit www.markdyke.com

Rachel Sweet, LMSW

Rachel received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Central Michigan University and her Master’s in Social Work from Michigan State University. Rachel specializes in maternal mental health, disordered eating concerns, and Adult Children of Alcoholics. She also enjoys working with client’s through difficult life transitions, grief and loss, and anxiety and depression. Rachel is passionate about the gift of expressing one’s true, authentic-self and learning that as humans we are all faced with challenges. Rachel provides a non-judgmental approach to helping clients learn and develop self-care, boundary setting, healthy thinking patterns and effective communication strategies to enhance their lives.

Brian Highstreet, LPC

Brian is a licensed professional counselor who has received extensive training and experience in adolescent and family therapy. Brian received his master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University. Brian works with kids (ages 10 - 18), families, young adults, and men who struggle with many of today's life stressors. Issues such as anxiety, anger, depression, school/community problems, loss/grief, divorce, etc. are things that he assists individuals and families to effectively deal with. Brian utilizes a strengths-based approach, where he identifies positive characteristics that will help lay the ground work to create positive change. Brian is not afraid "to go there"; in identifying and communicating reasons why certain behaviors are occurring. Finally, Brian uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to develop and practice positive skills to effectively respond to stress and stressors.

As the parent of a child with "big emotions" I know the difficulty that many parents face with raising children in today's high tech and fast-paced world. I invite you to give me a call or send me an email to discuss how I might be able to help you and your family.

Lindsay Pals, LMSW

Lindsay earned her Masters of Clinical Social Work from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan and her Bachelors of Art in Studio Art and Gender Studies at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She deeply values healthy relationships- with others, with ourselves, and with the world around us. She sees the need for deeper emotional and physiological understanding to identify where we can become stuck with ourselves and in our relationships. She seeks to create a space for introspection and self-compassion in the therapist-client relationship so that the client can explore their authentic narrative, their inherent worth, and areas where they may need healing. Lindsay enjoys working with adolescents, adults, and couples. She specializes in trauma healing, treating anxiety and depression, perfectionism, ministry and missionary burn-out, gender and sexuality issues, emotion dysregulation, adult ADHD, and adult attachment issues. She is trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mental wellness crisis protocol, and co-occurring addiction and mental illness. Lindsay is pursuing her EMDR certificate as well.

Emily Jankowski, LMSW

Emily attended The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, for both undergraduate and graduate studies where she earned a Masters of Clinical Social Work and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Emily believes healing begins with warmth, trust, and consistent encouragement. She is passionate about helping people develop and utilize healthy ways of coping with life's challenges. Emily seeks to create a safe and collaborative space where people can begin the brave journey towards acknowledging pain, triumph, and their true self. She uses a compassionate mindfully-based approach to help individuals gain insight and improve their feelings of self-worth. Emily enjoys working with adolescents and adults in individual therapy. She specializes in supporting those experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflicts, life stressors, trauma, difficult transitions, and many more. She utilizes various therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution focused, and narrative therapy. Emily is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Tom Grabill, LLMFT, MDiv

Tom Grabill is a limited licensed marriage and family therapist (LLMFT) and an ordained pastor (MDiv). Tom received his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Hope College, his MDiv from Western Theological Seminary and a master’s degree in Counselor Education: Marriage & Family Therapy from Western Michigan University. Tom specializes in individual, marital, and family therapy. He strongly believes in the importance of creating a counseling space that is both authentic and safe. This counseling environment allows clients to open up to be able to work through things that are keeping them stuck , both currently and in the past, and helping them experience more out of life. Tom is passionate about marriage counseling as a way to help couples work through past hurts and issues in order to reach the ultimate goal of a healthy and vibrant marriage. He uses Family Systems Theory to help couples find workable solutions for relational challenges. Tom is a facilitator and trainer for Prepare/Enrich, a premarital and marriage assessment tool that has been effective for over 35 years. Tom and his wife Michelle are from and currently reside in the West Michigan area.

Devi Fongers, LCSW, ATR-L, CSSWS

Devi graduated from Calvin College and went on to complete a Master’s degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University and, more recently, a Master’s degree in Art Therapy from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Over the past 23 years of social work practice she has gained expertise in working with diverse individuals in a wide variety of settings.

As a holistic therapist she embraces current research based integrative methods to treat anxiety, PTSD, depression, attachment issues, trauma, gender dysphoria and adjustments to major life changes. She is trained in the Prepare and Enrich and Gottman Methods which help build healthy connections for couples. Her education as a Licensed Art Therapist enables her to develop strong therapeutic bonds with individuals of all ages who struggle to put their thoughts into words or are seeking new insights to break from the past. Having raised four children, she also enjoys meeting with parents looking for the best way to raise happy and confident kids, especially when those kids are challenged by ADHD, anxiety or social difficulties.

Devi has also developed expertise in trauma focused treatment and focuses on the needs of those who are hesitant to seek counseling, fear judgement, or have quit counseling in the past. Her professional and comfortable style puts clients at ease, honors their struggles, and joins with them to find solutions.

Jessica Cloutier, LPC, CMHIMP

Jessica is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She obtained a Master’s degree in Counseling at Western Michigan University in 2007, where she completed significant coursework in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her Bachelor’s Degree is in Human Resources from Michigan State University. Her work in Child Welfare, Community Mental Health and School Counseling roles provide an understanding of how one’s emotional well being affects how we “show up” in all the roles we hold in our lives. Her approach to counseling is therefore to partner with clients in exploring emotional experience, beliefs, and patterns in order to enhance interpersonal relationships. She provides a safe space for self-exploration, growth and practicing new ways of processing our experiences and new ways of relating to ourselves and others.

Her goal when working with children is to help them find their voice: whether it is working through relational trauma, expressing their emotions or needs, processing family changes or being more confident in social interactions. She uses play therapy, sandtray, art therapy, mindfulness and psychoeducation with children and parents in her work with children.

Jessica uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness to inform her work. She is trained in the use of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and the Imago Short-term couples therapy model. Her certification as a Certified Mental Health Integrated Health Provider informs her holistic view of what brings clients to counseling. She integrates education about the connection between both nutrition and mental health and mental health and physical health. She can make suggestions about when and how to incorporate complementary and alternative therapies such as yoga, bodywork, aromatherapy to enhance traditional counseling in the treatment of anxiety, depression, stress and trauma. Additionally, she is happy to partner with Medical doctors in supporting clients who choose to address mental health conditions through supplementation and nutrition.

Tessa Lewis, LMSW

Tessa Lewis, LMSW, is a fully licensed master’s social worker specializing in trauma treatment. She brings an enthusiastic, empowering, and hopeful approach to therapy to help clients reach their goals. Tessa has experience in child welfare working alongside children, adolescents, and their families. She is skilled in addressing delicate topics and has extensive knowledge on various traumas. She strives to provide a safe non-judgmental atmosphere for clients to feel comfortable being themselves and be open about their experiences. Tessa uses evidence-based models and tools to help clients better understand themselves and explore the root causes of their distresses and patterns. Tessa graduated from Calvin College with her Bachelors in Social Work and Michigan State University with her Masters of Social Work. At Michigan State University, Tessa studied Clinical Social Work with a concentration in Evidence-Based Trauma Treatments and Family Social Work. Tessa is fully trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). With these approaches, Tessa empowers those experiencing trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustments, self-esteem, and more.

Tara Poore, LMSW

As a licensed master clinical social worker, Tara offers a strengths- based, collaborative and non judgmental environment. She provides a space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their concerns to be able gain insight on life's struggles and stressors. She believes therapy can be a tool to help move clients towards a more balanced and peaceful life.

Tara received a Bachelor’s degree from Hope College and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Grand Valley State University. Her clinical background includes therapy with children, adolescents and adults. She has experience and training in areas of complex trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse, anxiety disorders, depression, attachment & foster care and adoption. She draws from a variety of frameworks with specialized training in trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy & trauma therapy.

Mona Guyton, LLMSW

I earned my Masters in Social Work from Grand Valley State University, Masters in Public Administration from Grand Valley State University and Bachelors in Science Majoring in Criminal Justice from Grand Valley State University. I am deeply passionate about working with youth who have involvement with the Juvenile Justice system as well as youth with a foster care history. I previously served as the Michigan Youth Opportunities Initiative Coordinator for the Department of Health and Human Services in which the majority of the population I served were foster youth and juvenile justice youth. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults and couples.

I specialize in trauma healing, treating anxiety and depression, burn-out, domestic violence, substance use, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), mental illness, as well as generational trauma. I have knowledge and experience in using the Safe and Together Model for Domestic Violence. I am deeply passionate and motivated to help guide individuals towards recognizing and addressing the underlying root cause of their concerns. I recognize and have great understanding that oftentimes it is difficult to break that generational cycle. Thus, I am motivated to gain a deeper psychological understanding of how one can break the generational cycle and rectify past familial concerns, while continuing to have a successful outcome.

Addie Zemcik, LLPC

Addie is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor working at the Byron Center office. Addie holds a Master’s in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling from Antioch University New England and is a Registered Dance/Movement Therapist (R-DMT, Board Eligible). Addie’s therapeutic approach is person-centered and trauma informed. You will always be met with warmth and empathy, as you are. Addie is non-judgmental and strives to build a therapeutic relationship rooted in feelings of safety and trust so that you can share, process, and heal.

Addie’s training gives her a body-based lens for counseling. By utilizing strengths-based therapy and body-based mindfulness, Addie strives to help you to connect to your emotions on a deeper level. She will help you to learn to listen to what your body is telling you and work towards expressing feelings and needs to promote wellness.

Addie’s experience includes community mental health, crisis services, and school based counseling (Preschool -12th). Additionally, she has worked with adults with Intellectual/ Developmental Disabilities and older adults with dementia. She enjoys working with youth and young adults that are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, day-to-day challenges, and those trying to implement self-care.

Kelly Powers, LLMSW

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”― Maya Angelou. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I will work with you to explore your story so you may gain insight, healing, and growth towards authentic wholeness.

I am a Limited Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with over twenty years of experience in higher education, nonprofits and church ministry. I earned a Master of Arts in Counseling from The Seattle School of Psychology and Theology and a Master of Social Work from Western Michigan University. I have completed additional training in grief therapy, spiritual direction, and the Enneagram. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing grief due to the death of a loved one, divorce, illness, severed relationship, job loss, or a traumatic event. I will help you engage with your grief and meaningfully integrate this change into your life. My other areas of focus include anxiety, stress management/burnout, spiritual issues, interpersonal development and women’s issues.

I utilize an integrated approach that melds narrative, relational, mindfulness, and trauma-informed therapy. I am dedicated to offering you a compassionate space, where you feel safe to engage with your story and pursue a life of wholeness. I look forward to connecting with you soon!

Colleen Dempsey, Administrative Assistant

Colleen Dempsey is our Administrative Assistant. She is here to support our team of office staff and therapists by taking care of the administrative tasks that need to be done in order to keep our practice running efficiently.

Amy Flesher, Billing Specialist

Amy Flesher is our Billing Manager. Her role on our team is to ensure all clients and insurances are properly billed. Amy is the one to talk to if you have questions about your bill. She diligently works with each therapist to take some of the confusion out of the complicated process of billing insurances.

Wendy Schuurman, Connections Specialist

Wendy Schuurman is our Connections Specialist. With confidentiality and compassion, she helps get you connected with a therapist and seeks to ease the initial steps in getting the counseling care you need for yourself and your family. She will be glad you called in. Wendy also plays a vital part in assisting therapists as they connect with Primary Care Providers and other clinicians to collaborate care.

BreAnna Fiala, Connections Specialist

BreAnna is one of our Connections Specialists. Together with Wendy (our other Connections Specialist), BreAnna seeks to welcome new clients looking for services at Alliance. She will help make the initial steps of getting set up with your therapist as easy and friendly as possible. She will be glad you reached out and will be excited to get you connected with the best fitting therapist for your needs. BreAnna is also currently working toward her Masters in Counseling.