Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Grand Rapids, MI covered by Aetna

I have my Master's degree in Social Work and have worked with clients for over 30 years. I provide a safe environment in order for you to feel comfortable and work toward your goals.

Welcome—I’m glad you’re here. Choosing to seek support is an act of courage, and your future self will thank you for showing yourself kindness today. My name is Renee. I graduated from University of Southern California School of Social Work in 2014. I specialize in working with individuals carrying the weight of significant trauma, addictions, unresolved grief, and painful life experiences that can feel isolating or overwhelming. I support those who struggle with trust after unhealthy relationships, major life transitions, or who have turned to alcohol or other substances to cope with emotional pain.

I also work with individuals healing from addiction, substance use, and mental health challenges, and I have experience supporting military families as they navigate the unique barriers of having a loved one in the military, as well as serving Veterans. My goal is to offer a supportive space for healing, connection, and meaningful change.

Before earning my Masters in Counseling, I earned a PhD in social and personality psychology. This background deeply informs how I show up as a therapist. I help clients address unresolved trauma and grief, anxiety and OCD, address relationship issues, as well as "problems of everyday living." My style is active, engaged, and practical.

My career began in 1997 as an AmeriCorps member working in harm reduction during the peak of new HIV infections. Since then, I've held many roles as a proud social worker. I have been a therapist for 18 years, with extensive training & experience in harm reduction therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD. I have lived experience with mental health challenges and treatment

I have worked and lived in:

• Charlotte, NC
• San Francisco
• Michigan
• Oahu, Hawaii

I began my professional career working with children and families in the judicial system, foster care and adoption. From there I transitioned to working with children and families with severe emotional challenges and adults with serious mental illness. Working in the community mental health system has provided me the opportunity to receive extensive training in mental health disorders and evidence based practices suited to treatment. It has also provided me the competency skills necessary to work with people from diverse backgrounds. Throughout my professional career, my commitment to helping others succeed lead me into leadership. While in leadership, I have helped to coach and develop other professionals to achieve their professional development goals.

I provide treatment for high functioning anxiety, stress, worry, overthinking, perfectionism, self-criticism, overwhelm, procrastination, imposter syndrome, low self-worth, burn-out, ADHD and relationship stress. I understand that life's challenges can sometimes become overwhelming, and seeking support is a courageous step toward achieving balance and well-being. I am here to support you with your personal growth and emotional healing. Julie looks forward to helping you discover your inner resilience and empower you for positive change.

I am a licensed mental health therapist with a background in social work. I have a master's in clinical social work from the University of Wisconsin, Green Bay. I have experience working in outpatient therapy and medical settings, which has shaped my grounded and integrative approach to care. I work with adults and children navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, professional stress, grief, and patterns that feel difficult to shift. I also support individuals experiencing self-doubt, boundary concerns, emotional overwhelm, and relational dynamics that leave them feeling unseen or unheard.