Having an important person to you in life can help you through all of life’s troubles. If you're dealing with depression, stress, or anxiety, speaking to someone can be the cure. However, it can be difficult to find that someone, especially if you feel like you're alone. A counselor based in Ann Arbor can be the help you deserve. 

Ann Arbor was named after the founders’ wives. Both of them shared the name Ann. Both Anns helped the founders out quite a bit, but not everyone has that guide. That’s where a counselor comes in. Speak to a therapist and see how they can help.

This is Karlene Harrison's avatar and link to their profile

Karlene Harrison

Offering therapy in MI
License: MSW,LMSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a fully licensed clinical social worker with a Masters Degree in Social Work from Michigan State University. I have over 15 years clinical experience in a wide range of settings and with diverse clientele. I work with adults from all backgrounds. Common presenting problems include depression, anxiety, guilt, grief, relationship conflict, and communication barriers. I have extensive experience working with clients facing loss, grief, and life transitions (including clients who are dealing with family members with dementia and aging issues). Finding a therapist and forming a meaningful connection is the first step in your journey toward improving your situation. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where we can discuss any of life's problems - an environment in which we can work together to assist you in building insight, developing coping strategies, and expressing feelings. My counseling style is relaxed and collaborative. I use a variety of trusted, research based therapy techniques to help you identify problem areas, set expectations, and work toward positive change. Learning to re-frame or perceive problems in a different way can change distorted thoughts and build skills to help you learn how to process problems in healthier ways. I also believe that sometimes people just need to talk for a while - I am a patient listener and my approach allows you, the client, to start wherever you need to start. I am here to help you navigate through the challenges you are facing. I encourage you to be open to the various ways of connecting on this platform and learn which method is most beneficial for you. I look forward to working with you and helping guide you in a positive direction.

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This is Abigail Simmons's avatar and link to their profile

Abigail Simmons

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Life is so hard isn’t it? It can often bring unexpected pain and suffering. Sometimes just having one person to reach out to makes all the difference. It takes an extraordinarily strong person to even acknowledge that counseling may be helpful, so just know that you are already taking the right steps to a better, more fulfilled life. I hope that everyone here finds what they are looking for in a counselor, so you can live up to your full potential. It is normal to feel lost sometimes, especially in 2020. People in our lives both personally and professionally are all in different places and sometimes an outside positive perspective is all we need to move forward. I am so happy to be that person for you. My name is Abi Simmons, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated with both Bachelors and Masters degrees in Social Work from Michigan State University. I have been married for 10 years and we have 4 children. I was born and raised in West Michigan, after college I worked in Manhattan, New York and Philadelphia, PA before moving back to West Michigan to raise our children. During my 12 years of experience, I have specialized experience in several areas including depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma. I have experience working in the medical setting and with a people of all ages and in all walks of life. I specifically have experience working as a mediator between relationships, parenting issues, couples and depression/anxiety. I am here to provide a warm atmosphere, free of judgment and criticism. I want to come alongside you as you journey through life. A place to receive support and validation. Working on your own timeframe and schedule. It takes courage to be here and take the first steps to a better place. I look forward to meeting you wherever you find yourself and help you get to where you want to be in the future. Talk to you soon, Abi

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This is Michael Davis's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Davis

Offering therapy in MI
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker living in Florida with over 15 years of experience working as an individual, family and group therapist. I have worked with clients in a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, anger issues, parenting problems, relationship issues, OCD and ADHD. The majority of my work has been as an "in-home therapist" guiding children and parents as they overcome past abuse, neglect and grief/loss issues. My counseling style is personable and engaging. I am non-judgmental and hold unconditional positive regard for all. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectal behavioral, psychodynamic and trauma-focused therapies . I will collaborate to discover what type of counseling will benefit you the most. Staying on task by developing interventions to achieve your goal is central to overcoming any challenges. It is an honor and privilege to work with everyone as they start the tough, but rewarding journey to achieve a more joyful and happier life.

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This is Leah Little's avatar and link to their profile

Leah Little

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW,CAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Leah Little, LMSW, CAADC is a fully licensed clinical social worker in the states of Michigan and Illinois, and a certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor. She obtained her MSW from the University of Michigan, with a concentration in mental health and interpersonal practice. Her graduate training was conducted at Michigan Medicine, in the Psychiatric Emergency Services. During this internship, she obtained extensive training in various evidence-based treatments, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Later in her career, while in government service with the U.S. Veteran’s Health Administration, Leah was trained in Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET). Leah has over a decade of work experience providing individual, family, and group therapy to adolescents and adults in community non-profit, hospital, and private practice settings. Her areas of treatment focus include life transitions, grief/loss, relationship or family issues, general stress, depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, or coping with past trauma. Leah strives to create a safe, welcoming atmosphere where you can openly share thoughts and feelings, talk about your dreams and goals, be unashamed to cry, and maybe even laugh a little.

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This is Jennifer Cole's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Cole

Offering therapy in MI
License: Lmsw
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

"If you want a happy ending, that depends, of course, on where you stop your story" - Orson Welles. To me, this quote is a reminder that we all have our ups and downs in life, every single one of us. Even the people deemed "most successful" still have times that if life would have stopped in those moments, they would have been left feeling as though life were unhappy. No matter your past, no matter what you are experiencing right now, we all can still have a very different ending than what we are on the path to having. I'm here to help you find that new path and to help you feel safe taking the first steps down it. Taking the first steps down the road of change is often difficult for people. I encourage you to set up an initial appointment and we will walk down that road together. I am an LMSW who has been practicing for 5+ years. I specialize in helping individuals heal from their past, gain insight and manage the present, and thrive in the future. I am passionate about working with women who are in the transitional phase of life. Whether it's a break-up, divorce, infidelity, sexual assault, insecurities, low self-esteem, healing from past trauma, infertility or loss of child, anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, or learning to love yourself I will be walking alongside you to help you through the process to get to a better place. Learn to let go of sadness and anger towards others, and self, to find your inner peace. I hope to see you in my virtual office soon.

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This is Christina Vanchina's avatar and link to their profile

Christina Vanchina

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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This is Leigh Evans's avatar and link to their profile

Leigh Evans

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida and Michigan with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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This is Tracy Gogan's avatar and link to their profile

Tracy Gogan

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker, licensed in both Michigan and California with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, as well as experience helping those living with advanced illness. I have specialized training in working with prolonged/complicated grief, anticipatory grief and stress associated with caregiving. 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 be vulnerable, to face challenges and to adapt to changing circumstances. I am here to support, empower and accompany you in that journey.

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This is Pamela Francken's avatar and link to their profile

Pamela Francken

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship 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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This is Lillian Nunez's avatar and link to their profile

Lillian Nunez

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed by the State of Michigan and have over 30 years of professional experience.I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I have been a foster parent, as well as trained other foster parents, so I have a great deal of experience working with both children and adults who may be needing some assistance with this issue. I enjoy the challenge of helping parents who are experiencing the difficulties of raising children, especially teenagers. have experience in working with clients who are autistic, both children and adults. 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 Ann Arbor

Finding the best therapist close by in Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor. 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 Ann Arbor, 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor, elsewhere in Washtenaw, 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 Ann Arbor area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor, 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor 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 48105 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor, 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.

Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor.

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

48103, 48104, 48105, 48106, 48107, 48108, 48109, 48113

Popular cities near Ann Arbor, MI

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