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Finding a Teen Counselor in Grand Rapids: What West Michigan Parents Should Know
If you're searching for teen counseling in Grand Rapids, you're probably already worried about your kid. Maybe they've been pulling away, sleeping too much, or saying things that scared you. The good news: West Michigan has solid options for adolescent mental health support, and finding the right fit is more doable than it might feel right now. But "more doable" doesn't mean simple. Picking a therapist for your teenager is different from finding one for yourself. Teens push b

Alaina Smith
4 days ago7 min read


The Benefits of Adolescent Therapy: What Every Parent Should Know
Adolescent mental health therapy gives teenagers a structured, safe relationship where they can work through what they're carrying without worrying about how it affects them. If your teen has been struggling and you're not sure whether therapy would actually help, the short answer is: for most teens dealing with anxiety, depression, social stress, trauma, or big life transitions, it does. This article breaks down what therapy for adolescents actually looks like, what it accom

Alaina Smith
Aug 97 min read


What Is Grief Counseling, and How Does It Actually Help?
Grief counseling is a form of therapy specifically designed to help people move through loss in a healthy way, whether that loss is a death, a divorce, a job, or anything that has fundamentally changed your world. It gives you a dedicated space to feel what you feel without a clock ticking or someone reminding you to "look on the bright side." Most people who come to grief counseling aren't falling apart. They're just stuck, and they need help finding their footing again. Los

Alaina Smith
Aug 28 min read


How to Find the Right Therapist for Your Teenager in Grand Rapids
--- Finding a teen therapist in Grand Rapids doesn't have to feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The short answer: look for someone who specializes in adolescent development, has experience with your teen's specific struggles, and creates an environment where your teenager actually wants to show up. That last part matters more than most parents realize. If you've already started the search, you know how confusing it can get. Insurance limitations, waitlists, and t

Alaina Smith
Jul 226 min read


Does Insurance Cover Couples Therapy? What Grand Rapids Couples Need to Know
Most health insurance plans do not cover couples therapy. That's the short, honest answer. But there are exceptions, workarounds, and practical options that make couples counseling more accessible than many people assume. If you're a Grand Rapids couple weighing whether therapy is financially realistic, this article will walk you through exactly what to expect. Why Insurance Usually Doesn't Cover Couples Therapy Health insurance is built around diagnosing and treating individ

Alaina Smith
Jul 197 min read


Slowing Down for Summer
It is easy for a Michigan summer to feel like a whirlwind. Oftentimes, I find myself saying "yes" to plans even when I want to say "no," simply because I know those warm, sunny days won’t last forever. Instead of honoring my need for rest, I catch myself overcommitting anyway. Here are a few reminders to help you stay focused on slowing down during the busy summer months.

Emily Chivis
Jun 122 min read


Grand Rapids Free Outdoor Fitness Class Series
This summer, the Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its 11th annual Free Outdoor Fitness Class series, running from May through August. It is an incredible opportunity to take care of your body and mind at the same time without spending a dime.
Crystal Rusticus
Jun 53 min read


Opinion: My thoughts on the new Acrisure Amphitheater
I was able to attend the opening performance - legendary Lionel Richie - at the new Acrisure Amphitheater in downtown Grand Rapids, MI. My overall impression is that of awe and excitement, but also feeling there are a couple of kinks to untangle.

Emily Chivis
May 225 min read


Navigating the Storm
In a crisis, it is normal to lose your balance. Your emotions, thoughts, and physical body are reacting to an overload. Life doesn't always give us a warning before things get difficult. Whether it’s a sudden loss, a traumatic event, or a personal breakthrough that feels overwhelming, a crisis arises when our usual ways of coping aren't enough to handle the stress we’re facing. This is a guide to help navigate the storm.
Crystal Rusticus
May 153 min read


Is It Normal to Feel This Way?
At some point, almost everyone has had a moment when they pause and think: “Is it normal to feel this way?”, "Why am I feeling like this?", or "Is there something wrong with me?" If you have ever asked yourself, “Is this normal?” I want you to know this: You are not alone.
Crystal Rusticus
May 83 min read


Why Wellness is More Than a Buzzword
I’ve come to realize that wellness is more than a buzzword. It goes so much deeper than a temporary "treat yourself" moment, and is the very heart of how we heal, grow, and show up for ourselves every day.
Crystal Rusticus
Apr 172 min read


Self-Care in the Springtime
Self-care in the springtime is a beautiful reminder of fresh beginnings. Many use January 1st as a reset, but personally I find that spring has a lot more to offer for setting new goals as a form of self-care.

Emily Chivis
Apr 103 min read


Spring Break in West Michigan
West Michigan Spring Break starts today! A list of activities both indoors and out. Spring break is a great time to bring the family together for connection and fun!

Emily Chivis
Apr 34 min read


The Gift of Authenticity
This blog has been the most personal one I have written yet, and I believe it to be important. Authenticity is an exceptional value to hold, but it is also a gift that can be given to others.

Emily Chivis
Mar 274 min read


Struggling With Motivation
I feel confident saying that struggling with motivation affects all of us from time to time. Sometimes it feels like life is moving at the speed of light, or that there are more to-do's on our lists than time to do them. Whatever is causing the lack of motivation can feel burdensome and overwhelming. I’m here to offer a few tips to help alleviate some stress you feel around motivation. Sometimes taking one small step is all it takes to get out of a rut.

Emily Chivis
Mar 203 min read


Quiet Places in Grand Rapids
Whether you have social anxiety or just need a relaxing place to recharge, it is important to honor your needs and find opportunities to slow down. We all benefit from quiet opportunities to be with oneself from time to time.

Emily Chivis
Mar 133 min read


Pros and Cons of Therapy
Being part of a therapy office you may expect me to only have pros about attending therapy. Don’t get me wrong, there are many pros, but I would be lying if I said that we didn’t know of any cons, because there are some. I want to spend a little time discussing both the pros and the cons of therapy so that you will have a better understanding of the benefits and the barriers of getting the help you deserve.

Emily Chivis
Mar 64 min read


Isn’t individual therapy just talking about it? How could that help me?
Isn’t therapy just talking about it? How could that help me? Your therapist should give you the tools to continue healing outside of their office. The goal is for you to live your life authentically with the ability to handle the trials and tribulations life will throw at you.

Emily Chivis
Feb 273 min read


Have the effects of trauma made you feel you have lost your mind?
A blog to provide you with reassurance and hope that you are not crazy or losing your mind. The changes you may be experiencing are not “all in your head." This is very real, and it's happening for a reason. You have suffered a trauma.

Alaina Smith
Feb 206 min read


Benefits of Seeing Our Therapy Intern
This Blog Post offers insight into the benefits of choosing a therapy intern.

Emily Chivis
Feb 63 min read
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