The nightlife in Ferndale is well-known as they have many different bars, restaurants, dance clubs, and shops along the famous 9 Mile Road. However, if you have social anxiety disorder, you are not comfortable going out in public or anywhere there is a crowd. Luckily, Ferndale also has some of the best therapists in Michigan. 

Dealing with social anxiety disorder is a struggle every single day as you fight the worry, panic attacks, and insomnia that plagues you. There is no way you can go out to a crowded restaurant or club with this disorder. You have to contact one of the Ferndale therapists to get treatment.

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Jessica Short-Slack

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW,LMT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hello and welcome! What a wonderful and courageous step you have made! My name is Jessica Slack, I am a clinical therapist and a licensed master of social work (LMSW) through the state of Michigan. I acquired both my bachelors and masters of social work through the University of Michigan, and have been practicing as a counselor for individuals, couples, and families for the past 8 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including personality disorders, mood disorders (including bipolar disorder and depression), anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, substance use and addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. I have worked with victims of trauma and loss, as well as those struggling with impulsive behaviors, eating disorders, and problems managing anger. My therapy style is empathetic, validating, and encouraging, with a healthy mixture of solution-oriented, motivational, and change-based approaches. Balancing both acceptance and change, I encourage others to identify their personal goals, and work together to build their most authentic life. I use a holistic and strengths-based approach and a variety of therapeutic techniques and interventions tailored toward your unique strengths and needs. I have practiced a variety of treatment modalities, with my expertise being in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. I also utilize solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques. I utilize a mixture of theoretical approaches, with a foundation being in the holistic biopsychosocial approach. Integrating biological, psychological, and socio-cultural perspectives, I work toward determining and understanding behavior and cognitive processes as a result of a combination of biological processes, past experiences, and social-cultural norms. I focus on a variation of a strengths-based approach, mindfulness approach, and problem solving approach to develop insight, build skills and enhance mastery, and empower you to be most effective in solving problems and managing emotions. I believe in treating every individual with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and empowering against stigmatizing labels. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and joyful life and to take the first steps towards a change. 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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Bri Harless

Offering therapy in MI
License: LPC,CAADC
AddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I have a master’s degree in Counseling with a focus on professional counseling and marriage and family therapy. Since 2009 I have worked providing individual, couples, and group counseling. I spent the first half of my career working with individuals and families affected by substance use and the last several years I have worked in a private practice setting helping people with a variety of mental health concerns. While there are very few issues I have not worked with, I have spent a significant amount of time with those working to overcome depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorders, PTSD, stage of life adjustments, and parenting stressors. My experience over the last 11 years has taught me to know my clients first. There are several theoretical approaches to providing counseling, but there is no one size fits all approach. My first goal is to know my clients and what might suit them best. I view my role as a guide, a helper, a teacher. I believe each individual and their autonomy is to be respected. Every tool used in therapy should be something you can use in a way that fits your life. I believe every person has what it takes to overcome the trials they face in life. I know reaching out for help can be uncomfortable for a variety of reasons, but I’m glad you took the step. I have hope we can work together to make it worth your investment. I look forward to getting started.

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Laverne Santangelo

Offering therapy in MI
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Laverne Santangelo and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan. I am also a certified Wholistic Life Coach and Yoga Teacher. My experience and knowledge in the mental health field and helping professions is vast. I have volunteered and worked in some capacity of helping others to be the best they can be for 25yrs. I am a veteran. I retired from the Army National Guard with 23 years of honorable service I have had my own personal experiences with mental health and I grew up in a family with close friends and loved ones who struggled with addiction. I understand what is like to seek treatment, face stigmas and overcome barriers to treatment. I have worked in a variety or treatment settings which has developed and enhanced my clinical knowledge throughout the years. I have worked with women who struggled with shame, guilt and forgiveness after an abortion. I spent several years working inpatient with individuals struggling with substance use and also helping their families understand addiction. I have created and facilitated groups to help women smoothly navigate the numerous seasons of life. I have worked several years in community mental health treating individuals who have severe mental illness and substance use. I have added life coaching to my practice to help individual achieve personal goals and desires. I am also a certified in Trauma-Informed Yoga. I am passionate about my clients reaching achieving balance and wellness in all areas of their life! Our minds, bodies and souls can become healthy from counseling, coaching and positive regard. I used person-centered planning to develop a treatment plans I will work closely with my clients to seek the answers and solutions to whatever stage of life or issue they are experiencing. “I will meet you where you'r at!” I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and holistic approaches to help you on your journey to stability and wellness.

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Brian Shaffer

Offering therapy in MI
License: MA, MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTGriefDepression
10 years of experience

Brian is a Licensed Professional Counselor with education, training and clinical experience in the fields of Mental Health, Addiction, Trauma, Grief, Loss and Bereavement and Spiritual Care. He provides counseling, assessment and intervention services that help clients meet their goals for a life in recovery. Brian has a passion for providing quality care, support and services to his clients through a person-centered approach that incorporates interventions from various theories and methodologies. He believes in helping clients process through past traumatic experiences that have contributed to current struggles with substance abuse and mental health symptoms. Brian also incorporates client’s spiritual beliefs into the treatment protocol in order to holistically address their needs. His extensive experience and passion for this field has helped guide individuals through the process of recovery in order to experience freedom from their past and a hope for their future.

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Holly Wixon

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW,CAADC,CCS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

I am a substance use therapist licensed in the State of Michigan with over 8 years of experience. While substance use is my expertise, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, relationship and career challenges. I have also worked with a wide range of clientele from children to adults, individuals to families. My goal as your therapist is to create a safe space, empowering you with the tools to achieve your goals. I want my clients to feel supported, encouraged, and cared for. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, humanistic, and solution-focused - a combination that allows you to feel heard and allows me to truly understand you. I am a strong believer in person-centered treatment, a collaborative process where we create a plan that meets your specific needs and desires. I know taking this first step can be intimidating; I applaud your strength and I am here to walk alongside you as you work towards change.

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Tonya F LMSW,ACSW

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW,ACSW,Tonya Fleming-Fuller
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker with over 15 years of clinical experience working with individuals needing support for various life challenges. My therapy is focused on helping clients develop effective coping skills and exploring ways to utilize your inner strengths. My therapy style is welcoming and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, privacy and flexibility. I applaud you for seeking support - it takes courage to do that! I hope to have an opportunity to meet and work with you.

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Adrienne Tapson-Hart

Offering therapy in MI
Coping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with life changes. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Dr. Patricia Keller

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure about your next steps? I'm dedicated to helping women navigate life's challenges and transitions, offering counseling, life coaching, and therapeutic support. I'm deeply committed to empowering individuals, especially during midlife challenges. My focus areas encompass life coaching, stress management, anxiety, depression, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, both in personal growth and career development. In therapy and coaching, I create a dynamic and supportive environment, drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic modalities and coaching techniques. If you're looking for a dedicated partner to help you thrive during life's transitions, overcome obstacles, tap into your inner strength, and make a positive impact on the world, I welcome you to reach out. I am licensed professional counselor with a PhD and experienced life coach with 20 years of professional work experience. 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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Karla Schupp

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan and South Dakota with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I value the therapeutic relationship and focus on the resiliency of the client to create a firm foundation on which to achieve change. I find great worth in aiding the client to find their OWN voice to promote healing and wellness. I am a trained trauma therapist in EMDR. I have experience and knowledge in working with complex and repeated trauma as well as collective, and generational trauma as it impacts the individual. In my practice, I use a balanced approach of empirically validated treatment. The first step to reaching out can be scary, but if you are ready to work towards positive change, Together, we will identify issues and develop a plan to get you on the road to increased life satisfaction

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This is Dale Potter's avatar and link to their profile

Dale Potter

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 15 years of professional work experience. I see myself as a Wabi-Sabi, eclectic therapist who often works to see creative, outside the box though towards discovery. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, post Christian and Progressive spiritual exploration, ACE's, trauma and abuse, & depression, specialeducationand dyslexia, life transition. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Ferndale

Finding the best therapist close by in Ferndale 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 Ferndale. 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 Ferndale, 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 Ferndale 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 Ferndale 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 Ferndale, 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 Ferndale area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ferndale 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 Ferndale 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 Ferndale 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 Ferndale, 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 Ferndale 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 Ferndale 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 Ferndale 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 Ferndale 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 Ferndale 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 48220 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 Ferndale 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 Ferndale 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 Ferndale, 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.

Ferndale 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 Ferndale.

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

48220

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