Oak Park is a suburb of Detroit in the state of Michigan and it is nicknamed the “Family City.” The city is dedicated to community, culture, and commerce, with a farmer’s market, community center, putt putt golf course, 10 city parks, and many other amenities to bring the community together. 

Having a close community is great for family living and as they say, “it takes a village to raise a child.” This means that having a close-knit community with people who care about everyone else is an excellent way to raise your children. Sometimes, you may have difficulty raising your child due to emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorders. In Oak Park, there are many trained therapists with experience in this and other mental health issues. 

This is Jacquelyn Buffo's avatar and link to their profile

Jacquelyn Buffo

Offering therapy in MI
License: MS,LPC,CAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

My name is Jacquelyn Buffo, but you can feel free to call me Jackie. I am born and raised in Michigan. My husband and I have 3 boys and we enjoy anything outdoors. In fact, we decided to leave the hustle and bustle of our large city and move to the countryside at the end of 2017. It was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made! I graduated from Michigan State University (go green!) with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education and Language Arts. I went on to pursue my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling in 2009. I have been a licensed therapist for nearly 9 years. Prior to practicing as a professional counselor, I worked as a career counselor in Detroit for 3 years. After earning my graduate degree, I worked as an in-home therapist in the metro Detroit area. There, I counseled adults and children who were survivors of abuse, experiencing PTSD, and addiction issues. After I obtained my certification as an advanced drug and alcohol counselor in 2016, I became the primary counselor at an inpatient women’s specialty program. I provided therapeutic services to pregnant women and mothers suffering from substance abuse and mental health disorders. I was able to obtain my dream job as an adolescent and adult outpatient therapist with Henry Ford Health System (HFHS) in 2016. HFHS provided me with an amazing opportunity to receive intensive training in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). I am currently in the process of obtaining my DBT certification and I co-lead an adolescent DBT skills group. My area of focus includes borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, addiction issues, interpersonal conflict, self-esteem and trauma. It is my personal and professional belief that creating a life worth living requires intention and skill; it doesn’t just happen. Life can be difficult at times and some of the difficulties we experience are out of our control. However, sometimes we cause the pain we experience due to lack of skill, intention or self-awareness. Through acceptance and change we can learn to maximize our happiness and create a life we love. Mindfulness is a cornerstone of my therapeutic approach, which is something I learned in my DBT training and practice daily. I am blessed to be able to provide services with BetterHelp because it makes therapy accessible to everyone. It can feel intimidating and scary to reach out for professional help and it can also be one of the best decisions you ever make. BetterHelp is a revolutionary platform that helps make therapy more approachable by reducing the fear that can accompany traditional face-to-face counseling. Thank you for taking the time to learn a little bit more about me, I look forward to hearing more about you.

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Dr. James Geidner

Offering therapy in MI
License: PhD,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

Dr. Jim Geidner has over 20 years of clinical experience working in a wide variety of settings, including psychiatric rehabilitation, child treatment centers and universities. He is currently a Professor of Health and Counseling and also works in private practice. With vast experience as a Clinical Supervisor at a wide variety of institutions, including Rush Memorial Hospital, University of Chicago, University of Wisconsin, among others, Dr. Geidner is well versed in numerous modes of therapy. His approach to therapy emphasizes finding the right treatment modality to meet each client's unique needs.

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Michele Koenes

Offering therapy in MI
License: MSW,JD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
9 years of experience

Hello ~ I am a licensed Masters level Social Worker in Michigan and California with over 10 years of experience. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings with young adults, adults, and older adults with a wide array of mental health concerns. I have also worked as a litigation attorney and as a teacher. These experiences have strengthened my abilities to relate, connect, and provide support to my clients. My counseling style is one of collaboration and responsiveness. I am attuned to my clients unique and individual personalities, situations and needs. I believe that empathy and letting the client set the pace of therapy is imperative to an effective process and the realization of desired outcomes. Therapy is a supportive, safe place where every aspect of you is welcome – even the parts that may be uncomfortable to share. As your therapist, I will strive to build and maintain a space for healing and growth. I am ready to begin the process with you! MI License #6801065517 - CA License#LCSW118004

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Dana Nagelkirk

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am a licensed social worker with 4 years experience working in the mental health field. I worked 3 years as a case manager in the field of community mental health working adults with severe mental illness. I also having experience working as a therapist serving adults with severe mental illness and assisting clients in developing skills to help them better manage their symptoms. I have experience working with client's diagnosed with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Post traumatic stress disorder, Schizoaffective disorder, and others. I have also have experience assisting clients process and cope with life stressors such as coping with loss, navigating stressors of homelessness, coping with long term disabilities, and more. I have also completed an educational certificate in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy and specialized in trauma across the life span in my graduate level studies. When I was completing my MSW internship, I worked with foster care children processing trauma. I utilized play therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to help them build skills for managing symptoms and processing events from their past. I enjoy working with children and adults in the counseling setting and have experience working with children and adults from a variety of backgrounds. My counseling style is warm, easy going, and I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I have a gentle spirit and strive to create a counseling environment where my clients feel safe, welcomed, and secure. I enjoy using cognitive behavioral approaches in counseling and also have experience with Motivational Interviewing and trauma-focused therapy. I strive to tailor the treatment plan and goals to meet your unique and specific needs. Everyone is different and finds different things beneficial. I also am a Christian and my faith in God is the center of my life. I think there is a lot of wisdom found in the Word of God that can be applied to the therapy setting and utilized as a strength and asset in the therapeutic process. I also enjoy reading nonfiction Christian books focusing on topics such as anxiety, depression, the power of our thoughts, forgiveness, and others. I enjoy utilizing these things along with scriptures and prayer as a tool when it is appropriate and desired by the client. If clients desire, I would love to find ways to incorporate this into the therapy setting. I understand everyone has a different view on faith so I am respectful if people do not want this incorporated into sessions. It takes courage to seek help and I understand it is not always easy. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Trinda Martin

Offering therapy in MI
License: MA, LPC,EMT-P
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Michigan. My choice of approach to counseling is dependent on what works best for you. Every person is unique and is ultimately the expert in their own life. I believe the body and mind are intricately connected and need to be examined together to accurately assess and reach a resolution for life's demands. Counseling is my second career, my first was as a paramedic. I'm also an animal lover and believe pet therapy can be very beneficial. I look forward to assisting you with navigating life's challenges.

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Jenifer James

Offering therapy in MI
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas and Michigan with 4 years of professional work experience working with children, teens, and adults. I formally provided counseling services in-home, in a middle school clinic, at a university college clinic, and within a community healthcare clinic. I have experience in helping clients coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Grace Mallett

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jassmyne Ali

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Jassmyne and I am a licensed therapist located in Michigan with 8 years of practice working as a psychotherapist and social worker. My experience ranges from empowering clients to learn how to cope with stress and anxiety, navigating relationship issues, unpacking trauma and abuse, as well as improving motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. When working together, my focus is on creating a comfortable environment for you to express your truth without fear while holding space for you to explore it. My approach combines various modes of therapy based on your individual needs, which could include cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, skills-based, Jungian, and transpersonal to ensure your concerns are treated as a whole and foster the strongest possible connection to self. It takes tremendous courage to recognize a need for support and take the step towards seeking it. If you find it's time for you to begin that journey, I would be honored to walk alongside you while exploring the possibilities of change.

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Kimberley Hewitt

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Janet Kwantes

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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How to find counseling in Oak Park

Finding the best therapist close by in Oak Park can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Oak Park. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Oak Park, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Oak Park or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Oak Park area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Oak Park, elsewhere in Oakland, or in the greater state of Michigan.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Oak Park area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Oak Park therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Oak Park due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Oak Park may not take health insurance, some in the state of Michigan may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Michigan you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Oak Park, Michigan working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Oak Park above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Oak Park helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Oak Park therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Oak Park therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Oak Park therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in MI, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 48237 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Oak Park counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Oak Park licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Oak Park, Michigan can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Oak Park has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Oak Park.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Oak Park:

48237

Popular cities near Oak Park, MI

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