Lauren Bergh, MA, LPC, NBCC

Hello! I’m Lauren (she/her) and I graduated from Michigan State University in 2013 with a Bachelor’s in Family Community Services and Adult Development. I continued on to Spring Arbor University in 2017 with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Michigan, as well as a National Board Certified Counselor. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I have worked closely with trauma and its effects on the body and brain in various work settings. I enjoy working with adults and have experience in populations like homelessness, substance abuse, and early trauma. I enjoy working most with individuals with anxiety and depression through a harm reduction lens, considering the structural harm that can take place in our society today. I am interested in helping people understand their own thinking in a strength-based way, and finding ways to reduce and understand historical, biological, and experienced traumas. I believe that each person has the capacity and strength to change their own realities within a buffered, and safe therapeutic relationship. I am passionate about collaborative approaches between mind and body and am always looking to further her education in similar areas. I love to spend my free time with my three dogs, cat, and horse and am an avid Hunter/Jumper rider and gardener. I, like any good Michigan Native, adore Lake Michigan and summers full of music and travel.

Curry

Curry is a six-year-old Standard Poodle and Lauren's Canine Co-Therapist. She was born and raised in Michigan, and joined my family when she was about 18 months old. Curry is certified with Therapy Dogs International and The American Kennel Club and has her Canine Good Citizen – Advanced Certification. This means that people who professionally understand dog behavior agreed with me that she would be excellent as a therapy dog. Curry’s many talents include teaching people about overcoming fears, building trust, emotional honesty, and adaptive responses. She is best at standing for pets, leaning on legs without shedding, and staring deep into your eyes with intensity. Her best friend is her "twin" brother, Dalton (who is also training to be a therapy dog!) and she is warming up to her younger brother, Eliot (who prefers to stay at home).

Kim Christensen, MA, LPC, CAADC

**Telehealth Appointments Only**

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor.  My licensure was granted through the State of Michigan (#6401013669).  I am certified through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

I am trained in providing counseling one-on-one with adults, adolescents, and children, as well as with couples, families, groups, and with persons experiencing addictive behaviors.  I am retired from General Motors skilled-trades, and have worked with the Lansing School District, Clinton-Eaton-Ingham Community Mental Health, Lutheran Social Services of Michigan, as well as several positions in various churches.  I currently provide substance abuse and mental health counseling for Recovery Pathways of Essexville and Corunna, A Healing Place of Jackson, as well as individual counseling for Compassion Counseling Services of Lansing.

• I have a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Counseling from Spring Arbor University, Spring Arbor, Michigan. I completed additional coursework in Play Therapy with adults, children, families, and groups.
• I gained additional training in inco
• I have completed courses at the Master’s level in Clinical Psychology at Michigan School for Professional Psychology, Farmington Hills, MI., and am awaiting licensure.
• I completed my internship at A Healing Place in Jackson, MI., working with clients having problems with substance abuse and eating disorders.  I also have experience with psychological assessments.
• I have a certification in substance abuse and am a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) registered with the Michigan Certification Board of Addiction Professionals (MCBAP #03344). I completed post-graduate coursework in a Specialty Program for Alcohol and Drug Abuse, through Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, Michigan, with a Field Practicum at Recovery Pathways, LLC. Bay City, Michigan.
• rporating play into therapy through Michigan Association of Play Therapy professional conferences.  However, I am not certified as a Play Therapist.  I completed an internship at Volunteers of America, Michigan in the Lansing and Detroit locations.  I worked with Veterans who are homeless, in need of employment and needing assistance with mental health issues.
• I have completed and passed the National Counselor’s Exam, and am a certified counselor (NBCC).
• I have completed the requirements for Certified Advanced Trauma Professionals, and for Adoptions Certification.
• I have a Bachelor of Religious Education in Theology and Youth Ministry, and a Bachelor of Science in Christian Counseling from Great Lakes Christian College, Lansing, MI.
• I am a member of various professional organizations, including the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Amanda Davarn, MA, LPC, NCC, CAADC DP-C

**Not Accepting New Clients** I believe that people are resilient by nature. However, trauma has the ability to effect how we think, feel, and behave. It can make us lose hope and question our abilities to manage our lives and emotions. I want to help you feel content and find balance in your life and relationships. Therapy can help you learn how to communicate more effectively, process difficult emotions, and live a life consistent with your personal values.

I am a licensed professional counselor who brings a unique perspective as a first responder (EMT) with more than 10 years of health care experience (hospital and EMS).I currently serve as a volunteer on a rural fire department. I have experienced and witnessed first-hand the impacts that trauma can have on survivors, first responders, and families alike. I strive to provide a supportive and trauma-informed environment that promotes process and progress through trauma and associated avoidance patterns.

I received my Bachelor of Science in Health Studies from Michigan State University in 2010 (Go Green) and my Master of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University in 2019. I am certified through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and currently testing to gain my accreditation as a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC). I am a registered provider with STAR Behavioral Health as a civilian clinician trained to work with military and veteran populations as well as their families. I’m experienced and trained in Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, as well as a host of other helpful techniques to assist those I work with in overcoming a variety of symptoms and diagnoses including, but not limited to, PTSD, substance use disorders, anxiety, and depression.

Mary Dion, MA, LPC

Mary is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and has earned her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Siena Heights University. Mary has extensive experience working with children and young adults, whether they face anxiety, depression or adjustments/life transitions such as blended families, new schools, or behavioral concerns. Mary predominantly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy, and Mindfulness approaches while working with her clients, but adjusts the therapeutic approach based on the individual's needs. Mary is trauma-informed and believes that everyone can benefit from therapy. She is passionate about the helping relationship and looks forward to helping her clients achieve their best life.

Esther Dale, MA, LPC, RPT-S

I am a Lansing native, with a deep love and commitment to my hometown and the wonderful children and their families that I have the honor to serve. I am blessed to be a "talk" therapist as well as a play therapist by trade (fully licensed, fully credentialed). I am also honored to be a dedicated advocate to some of the most vulnerable in our society, children.

It might not always make sense to the grown-ups, healing through play, though I assure you I have seen kiddos heal time and time again with this simple, beautiful, approach. In therapy, kiddos do not heal like grown-ups do. Grown-ups like to “talk things out.” Though kiddos love to play, get loud, create, be messy and silly, in order to heal their "ouchies." My trusted assistant and sidekick, Band-aide Bear, knows all too well the ouchies that so many kiddos struggle with.

Please understand that my after-school hours are always booked solid months in advance. I do my best to accommodate, though there is likely to be a substantial waitlist if you want an after-school appointment. However, it is okay to pull your child out of school to get them the help that they need. I promise, you are not neglecting your child’s overall education if you decide to prioritize your child’s emotional and mental health as well. 

As a therapist and child advocate, I work extensively with the court system on many levels to help kiddos have the best chance of success of having a loving and supportive home(s). My work is known by many names, though therapeutic supervised parenting time as well as reunification therapy services are two common services requested frequently of me. Please be aware, if you expect court involvement during your child’s therapy, I have an extensive registration process to ensure your commitment to the process.

I also have a deep love and commitment to neurodiversity and have integrated it into everything I do. Thank you to my nephew, Georgie, for being the first one to welcome me into the wonderful world of Autism. I am forever blessed and changed for the better because of you.

Thank you to all the wonderful parents out there, that value the importance of emotional, mental health and vitality for their children. I am so grateful to you all.

Elsa Heenan, MA, LPC, NCC

**Telehealth Appointments Only**

I became a therapist to provide support that allows people to be true to their beliefs while also
burgeoning new changes toward their healthiest self. There are many times in our lives where we could use more support, a validating viewpoint, or someone to offer a hand in understanding why we behave or feel certain ways that are not beneficial. It is essential to who I am to be able offer my hand in this way, while also focusing on the strengths that you already have.

I am always seeking ways to help or support in the best ways with the endorsement of science-based research. In this pursuit, I have engaged in education beyond my basic skills that I believe have helped my clients and continue to educate myself as an impassioned learner. Within these specialized trainings, I have sought holistic wisdom and wellness. My specialties are focused on working with those experiencing complex trauma (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and disordered eating patterns using advanced techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). I am ready to join you at this point on your journey in life and hope that you will reach out for support.

Megan Heydlauff, LMSW

Depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, self-doubt, judgment, and change have kept many people from thriving and understanding themselves. I consider it a privilege to help people work towards positive changes in their life. We have all experienced times of feeling challenged by our life struggles. If you or your child would like help navigating something stressful in your life I am here to help.

I am a limited licensed master's social worker (LLMSW) practicing in Michigan. I received a Master of Social Work from Michigan State University and a Bachelor of Social Work from Michigan State University with a minor in Human Behavior and Social Services. I work with individuals (adults and adolescents), families, and groups. I received a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor Developmental Plan in 2020 (CAADC-DP-C). I have worked with individuals and families experiencing a range of life stressors including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, substance use, homelessness, and psychotic disorders. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, mindfulness, trauma, and harm reduction. With all this said, my treatment approach is individually tailored to meet the needs of the client and we can find which approach works best for you.

Becky Langham, MA, LPC

Sometimes you need someone on your team to help navigate life storms and point out life's wonders. I use a person-centered, mindfulness approach combined with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Additionally, I tap into solution-based thinking that offers concrete brain-based tools. I enjoy working with children and teens and recognize they are struggling to find their own unique path to becoming a person who is able to listen to their own unique voice and become their genuine and authentic selves. I am particularly interested in helping build self-esteem through self-acceptance and aiding in the struggle of anxiety and depression in order to identify life goals.

Teresa Patterson, LMSW

Hello I’m Teresa Patterson. I’m a licensed clinical social worker. I have 30 years of experience working with teenagers and young adults in various settings. I’m skilled in finding solutions to tough problems through the use of humor, empathy and building a solid “tool kit” while providing a safe and caring environment, Over the years, it’s been my passion to help teens and their families recover from a whole range of things that seemed insurmountable. Things like: problems with friends; anxiety and depression, attention problems; school; substance use; health challenges and trauma. I always follow the golden rule and never give up, and seek to find connection in the vulnerability we all share.

I have a passion for helping teens and young adults build steps to a bright future through job or college planning. I truly believe there’s a path for everyone to a rewarding life. I work within a solution-focused therapy modality, but am familiar and comfortable with many different approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and attachment theory systems. We’re always going to find our way and build from the things unique about you.

I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Western Michigan University, and a Bachelors from Michigan State University. I am a fully licensed LMSW through the State of Michigan with over 20 years of practice as a school social worker in a high school setting.

Kara Richards, MA, LPC, NCC

I am a board certified licensed professional counselor and a certified grief informed professional. I have a bachelor's in psychology from MSU and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Spring Arbor University. I love helping others and believe in a holistic approach to wellness. I primarily use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques. I believe that the mind and body connection is strong and that working on your mental health is as important as working on your physical health. I love to incorporate fitness and nutrition into my mental health work, so if you are looking for some lifestyle changes, perhaps I can help.  I am trained in couples counseling and individual counseling and have experience working with veterans, the homeless, trauma, substance-abuse, and relationship issues.  I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, body image, and self-acceptance.

Julie Shaltry, MA LPC, CAADC, NCC

I help adults who are struggling in their relationships. Navigating marriage, divorce, committed/casual relationships, sexuality or intimacy issues can be overwhelming. I feel counseling is a powerful alliance that can help move persons forward when feeling stuck or lost. I believe in holistic approaches to understanding people--meaning the circumstances affecting our lives do not happen in a vacuum. Our feelings, emotions, and lived experiences have an impact on our mental and physical health, as well as on our personal relationships, self-esteem, and perception of the world around us.

It's important to me that my clients feel respected and safe in counseling--only then can we explore their story and find meaning in their experiences. I employ many theoretical models in my work, including evidence based relationship protocols (Gottman, Emotionally Focused Therapy), Sex Therapy, Ego States/Parts Work, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Interpersonal Neurobiology, and Cognitive Behavioral approaches.

• I have a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Spring Arbor University in Spring Arbor, Michigan.
• I have earned the Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC #C-03542) from the Michigan Certification Board of Addiction Professionals (MCBAP).
• I am a counseling supervisor, meaning I supervise master’s level student counselors and limited licensed therapists.
• I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC #695594).
• I am a Certified Sex Therapist.
• I am a trained EFT Therapist (Level E).
• I am a Level 2 Gottman Couples Counselor.
• I am an EMDRIA Certified EMDR Therapist.
• I am a professional member of the American Counseling Association (#6329462), the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association (MMHCA), the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT #1403930), The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA #100111463) and the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (ACES).

Shawn Shaltry, MA, LPC

I provide a space where you will feel safe and heard. It is hard to move forward in life when you feel frustrated and incomplete. I will work with you in a calm and supportive environment to help you figure out the issues that are holding you back from reaching your potential.

Having grown up in a huge family I understand what it is like to not have a voice. I now have five children of my own, and they teach me love and patience on a daily basis. I am very blessed, but that blessing comes with trials and tribulations, and I understand the difficulties of trying to survive as an independent adult in a world of diapers, common core math, and learner’s permits.

I spent over twenty years serving in the United States Air Force, with a combination of active duty, Reserve, and membership in the Michigan Air National Guard. I have worked with veterans exclusively for the past three years, and speak that language fluently. I am also well versed in local veteran resources.

My work in the community has involved teens in the court system, adolescents in residential and foster care settings, and college students through the Michigan State University Counseling Center. I have also volunteered in local community organizations throughout my career; to include being Squadron Commander of the local Civil Air Patrol, membership in the Abrams Municipal Airport Advisory Commission, and multiple military deployments.

I feel that everybody has a unique story to tell, and I look forward to hearing yours!

Kelly Skrzypchak, LMSW, CAADC

**Telehealth Appointments Only**

As a clinician and human being, I understand that walking this journey in life alone can be very scary and painful. I have learned through 12 years of clinical experience that relationships can heal physical, mental, relational and spiritual hurts. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and senior citizens helping them navigate a plethora of issues such as trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, as well as relationships issues. My heart is to create a safe, protected and professional relationship where we can work together to help you alleviate the things that are causing dysfunction in your life.

I am a trauma informed clinician that specializes in Interpersonal Neurobiology which utilizes brain science to inform human behavior.  Understanding these processes have been known to empower clients for movement toward healing.  A "healing," relationship has been known to change the chemicals and structures of the brain that contribute to mental illness.

I believe in the power of helping relationships and have witnessed peace to those who have journeyed through the process of counseling. I invite you to take the first step into counseling it is the greatest gift you can give yourself and as well as the people who love you.

I am a licensed clinical masters’ social worker (LMSW) practicing in Michigan (MI License #6801090418).  I received my Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University in April 2008 and a Bachelor of Social Work with a minor in Sociology from Grand Valley State University in April of 2006.  I am clinically trained to work with individuals, families and groups.  I completed the requirements for Social Work licensure in 2010.  I also am certified with The Michigan Certification Board for Addiction Professionals (MCBAP) as a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) completing the necessary requirements for this certification in 2012.

Patty Tarr, MA, LPC, NCC

I am a licensed therapist in the state of Michigan who specializes in depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. My education and life experiences give me a unique and effective approach to counseling. I work to provide clients with a lasting experience rather than a short term treatment that can be integrated into their daily lives.

I have a Master’s degree in mental health counseling. I am a member of the National Board of Certified Counselors, Chi Sigma Iota Academic and Professional Honor Society International, American Mental Health Counselors Association, and Michigan Mental Health Counselors
Association.

Prior to becoming a counselor, I worked as a registered dental hygienist in Michigan, Ohio and New York. I worked in the public school system at elementary, middle and high school levels. I also worked as a job coach with youth and young adults. I am a person-centered therapist who will empower you and help you move forward in life with a purpose.

Kathleen Potts

Kathleen lives in Grand Ledge, and enjoys spending time with her husband and two teens. She previously worked in the publishing industry for 15 years. She's the first person clients will speak to when calling Insight. She gathers the client's information in order to match them up with a counselor. Clients can contact her whenever they have questions or concerns. Kathleen's looking forward to matching you up with the right therapist for a great fit!