Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Lansing, MI covered by Aetna

Hello, and welcome. My name is Jessica Banford, and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker / Clinical Social Worker with experience providing support in both emergency and outpatient mental health settings. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, understanding, and practical tools for change. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana Wesleyan University and my professional background includes working in hospital emergency departments, where I have completed behavioral health assessments, crisis intervention, and care coordination for individuals experiencing acute mental health concerns. This experience has strengthened my ability to remain calm, supportive, and solution-focused during difficult moments. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, emotional dysregulation, and life stressors such as relationship difficulties, financial stress, and transitions. I also worked a outpatient community health center providing therapy to all populations including all ages. I also have experience supporting adolescents and young adults, as well as collaborating with families and support systems. My approach to therapy is client-centered and strengths-based. I often incorporate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), focusing on building coping skills, improving emotional regulation, and increasing overall resilience. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, respected, and supported. I look forward to working together to help you reach your goals and improve your overall well-being.

I specialize in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life transitions, substance use, and co-occurring mental health concerns. Whether you're feeling stuck, struggling in relationships, coping with overwhelming emotions, or navigating recovery, I will meet you where you are and tailor treatment to your individual needs and goals.

As a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS), and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC), I bring experience working with individuals facing complex mental health, substance use, and medical challenges across a variety of healthcare and behavioral health settings. I am passionate about helping people recognize their strengths, overcome obstacles, and create fulfilling, balanced lives.

Many people reach out for counseling when life feels heavier than usual—when relationships are strained, emotions feel harder to manage, or when they feel overwhelmed with grief. for more than a decade, I have been helping families and individuals of all ages to cope, process and navigate around these issues. My goal is to offer a space where you do not have to hold all of that alone.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor working in the field with adults and couples for the last 6 years. I have worked with clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual identity issues, and addiction. There is not a population of people I feel uncomfortable working with.

I began my career working with children and quickly expanded my expertise to include adults and couples. Throughout my 26 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have seen the incredible power of the human spirit to overcome trauma and unexpected life struggles. Watching my clients transition from "surviving" to "thriving" remains the most inspiring part of my work.

I specialize in the treatment of trauma. I also find gratitude to helping others navigate depression, anxiety, PTSD, communication, relationship issues, and family issues. I am EMDR trained.

If you are someone struggling with the above, or you are looking to manage stress in other areas of your life I am here to help!