Photo of Emma Smith, MA, LPC, Counselor
Emma Smith
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686  (Online Only)
Please note: I am private pay only at this time, no insurances accepted. Sliding scale fee and reasonable rates. At Blue Thistle Therapy, I value holistic healing and authenticity. My practice is rooted in relationship-based counseling, and I dig deep in order to connect with the real you. I am not a “smile and nod” therapist. I believe that therapy should be challenging, and I’m here to partner with you in your journey toward positive growth.
Please note: I am private pay only at this time, no insurances accepted. Sliding scale fee and reasonable rates. At Blue Thistle Therapy, I value holistic healing and authenticity. My practice is rooted in relationship-based counseling, and I dig deep in order to connect with the real you. I am not a “smile and nod” therapist. I believe that therapy should be challenging, and I’m here to partner with you in your journey toward positive growth.
(231) 310-1766 View (231) 310-1766
Photo of Jenn Strange, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenn Strange
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
Providing a safe and supportive environment for a client to work on their issues is of the utmost importance for me. I truly try to meet clients where they are at in terms of their issues while providing encouraging and non-judgmental feedback. An individual looking to explore issues, enhance coping skills, and create positive change in their life is the ideal client for my practice. I'm honored anytime a client chooses to allow me to be part of their journey.
Providing a safe and supportive environment for a client to work on their issues is of the utmost importance for me. I truly try to meet clients where they are at in terms of their issues while providing encouraging and non-judgmental feedback. An individual looking to explore issues, enhance coping skills, and create positive change in their life is the ideal client for my practice. I'm honored anytime a client chooses to allow me to be part of their journey.
(231) 598-6035 View (231) 598-6035
Photo of Jules Shellby - Clinical Stress Relief and Counseling Center, MA, LPC, CAADC-D, ADS, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clinical Stress Relief and Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC-D, ADS, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686
Freedom! Ready to get unstuck? You're this far already, reading this. Seeking support proves you haven't given up. It shows you're strong. Heal with talking or spec.-acupuncture. Calm insomnia, ease your body, relieve fatigue or life dissatisfaction. Select TCM methods, or step-by-step techniques to quiet distress, process trauma, soothe anxiety/depression. Suffering alone isn't bravery; you DON'T have to live this way. Break free from diet-culture with intuitive, unconditional eating. Find your natural body size. Change your mood patterns/communication skill. Use a Professional Career Counselor for the job you deserve. Make a plan!
Freedom! Ready to get unstuck? You're this far already, reading this. Seeking support proves you haven't given up. It shows you're strong. Heal with talking or spec.-acupuncture. Calm insomnia, ease your body, relieve fatigue or life dissatisfaction. Select TCM methods, or step-by-step techniques to quiet distress, process trauma, soothe anxiety/depression. Suffering alone isn't bravery; you DON'T have to live this way. Break free from diet-culture with intuitive, unconditional eating. Find your natural body size. Change your mood patterns/communication skill. Use a Professional Career Counselor for the job you deserve. Make a plan!
(231) 259-5649 View (231) 259-5649
Photo of Anton Babushkin, PhD, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anton Babushkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
Waitlist for new clients
Psychotherapy is about improving your life. I am a highly trained, motivated and experienced therapist. I am passionate about helping you. Many people feel stuck and unsure of what is causing their symptoms. If you would like to understand yourself better, find relief and learn new skills, call me. We will work together to help you get more of what you want out of life. I have 15 years of professional experience and I'm a Board Certified Psychoanalyst. We will work together to help you feel more empowered to deal with challenges, reduce symptoms and improve your relationships.
Psychotherapy is about improving your life. I am a highly trained, motivated and experienced therapist. I am passionate about helping you. Many people feel stuck and unsure of what is causing their symptoms. If you would like to understand yourself better, find relief and learn new skills, call me. We will work together to help you get more of what you want out of life. I have 15 years of professional experience and I'm a Board Certified Psychoanalyst. We will work together to help you feel more empowered to deal with challenges, reduce symptoms and improve your relationships.
(248) 419-0623 View (248) 419-0623
Photo of Alicia Hinojosa, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alicia Hinojosa
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m a virtual therapist with openings this week! I grew up in a multicultural household where being the firstborn Mexican female held a lot of expectations and responsibilities, oftentimes, with little emotional support. While I identify as Mexican, I’m not fluent in Spanish. I know it can be difficult to seek services, but if you’re looking for guidance or a place to vent, you’ve found the right person. I create a safe and comforting space for all of my clients that allows them to talk about various topics without judgement. When I'm not working, I enjoy gaming with friends and reading. While we work together, my cat may visit!
Hi! I’m a virtual therapist with openings this week! I grew up in a multicultural household where being the firstborn Mexican female held a lot of expectations and responsibilities, oftentimes, with little emotional support. While I identify as Mexican, I’m not fluent in Spanish. I know it can be difficult to seek services, but if you’re looking for guidance or a place to vent, you’ve found the right person. I create a safe and comforting space for all of my clients that allows them to talk about various topics without judgement. When I'm not working, I enjoy gaming with friends and reading. While we work together, my cat may visit!
(616) 298-3341 View (616) 298-3341
Photo of Heather Dermyer, PhD, Psychologist
Heather Dermyer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
Welcome to Strive Health Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Health Psychologist who specializes in the mind-body connection through talk therapy. We will explore the way stress affects the physical body and vice versa. Treatment can include traditional psychological concerns, medical issues, pain management, and sport psychology. My mantra is “Faith, Fortitude, and Flexibility.” FAITH in the ability to overcome adversity, FORTITUDE to keep moving forward, and FLEXIBILITY to engage in creative problem solving. I believe that it takes conscious effort to self-improve and that the capacity for growth is infinite.
Welcome to Strive Health Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Health Psychologist who specializes in the mind-body connection through talk therapy. We will explore the way stress affects the physical body and vice versa. Treatment can include traditional psychological concerns, medical issues, pain management, and sport psychology. My mantra is “Faith, Fortitude, and Flexibility.” FAITH in the ability to overcome adversity, FORTITUDE to keep moving forward, and FLEXIBILITY to engage in creative problem solving. I believe that it takes conscious effort to self-improve and that the capacity for growth is infinite.
(231) 714-6334 View (231) 714-6334
Rachael T Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of counseling experience. I have worked to help people cope with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, C-PTSD, trauma and abuse as well as attachment and intimacy related issues. I have had the privilege of working with a wide variety of people with various racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as those in the LGBTQ+ community. I believe in a strength-based and resilience-informed approach to therapy.
I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of counseling experience. I have worked to help people cope with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, C-PTSD, trauma and abuse as well as attachment and intimacy related issues. I have had the privilege of working with a wide variety of people with various racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as those in the LGBTQ+ community. I believe in a strength-based and resilience-informed approach to therapy.
(231) 399-8507 View (231) 399-8507
Photo of Karen McCarthy, MA, LPC, Counselor
Karen McCarthy
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
My clients are children from infancy through age 10 (and their parents and caregivers) who want to improve their relationships and the ways they function in this difficult world. I help them understand each other, communicate, process their emotions, deal with life’s problems, and heal from past wounds, especially from trauma. Trauma can affect children’s behaviors and emotions in ways that may be surprising. They may seem withdrawn or angry or highly emotional or defiant ... and sometimes all of these in one day! Children who have not been traumatized may also run this gamut, leaving parents confused.
My clients are children from infancy through age 10 (and their parents and caregivers) who want to improve their relationships and the ways they function in this difficult world. I help them understand each other, communicate, process their emotions, deal with life’s problems, and heal from past wounds, especially from trauma. Trauma can affect children’s behaviors and emotions in ways that may be surprising. They may seem withdrawn or angry or highly emotional or defiant ... and sometimes all of these in one day! Children who have not been traumatized may also run this gamut, leaving parents confused.
(231) 201-3798 View (231) 201-3798
Photo of Jeffrey D Goodwin, MDiv, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffrey D Goodwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
I love helping adolescents and their families! Sounds strange I know, but it's true. I provide a listening ear and create a non-judgmental space for youth ages 11-24 to talk about life, love, friendship, and the challenges associated with transitioning into adulthood. I also work with struggling adults, couples and stressed families, and help individuals deal with things like depression and anxiety. Life puts lots of pressure on individuals, marriages, parents, and families, and I'd love to help you find ways to cope with the pressure and go from surviving to thriving!
I love helping adolescents and their families! Sounds strange I know, but it's true. I provide a listening ear and create a non-judgmental space for youth ages 11-24 to talk about life, love, friendship, and the challenges associated with transitioning into adulthood. I also work with struggling adults, couples and stressed families, and help individuals deal with things like depression and anxiety. Life puts lots of pressure on individuals, marriages, parents, and families, and I'd love to help you find ways to cope with the pressure and go from surviving to thriving!
(231) 622-4339 View (231) 622-4339
Photo of Julie Olson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m glad you’re here. Life can be hard and confusing and scary. You may be feeling overwhelmed or you’re struggling with low self-worth and self-doubt. Maybe you’re having difficulty in your relationships with friends, family or partner(s). Perhaps you’re struggling to identify and express your emotions. Add to that, despite all of the positives associated with social media, many people are feeling more isolated and alone than ever. I specialize in treating people struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma as well as life transitions such as navigating college, careers and relationships.
Hi! I’m glad you’re here. Life can be hard and confusing and scary. You may be feeling overwhelmed or you’re struggling with low self-worth and self-doubt. Maybe you’re having difficulty in your relationships with friends, family or partner(s). Perhaps you’re struggling to identify and express your emotions. Add to that, despite all of the positives associated with social media, many people are feeling more isolated and alone than ever. I specialize in treating people struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma as well as life transitions such as navigating college, careers and relationships.
(231) 518-3566 View (231) 518-3566
Photo of Aven Purcell, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aven Purcell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
I find great value in working with individuals facing challenges from life transitions, identity, relationships, parenting, career/college, and family conflict. My specific areas of specialty include but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, stress, postpartum and maternal mental health, neurodivergence, ADHD, trauma, and grief. My approach to therapy focuses on honoring your strengths, recognizing family and social system influences, and assisting you in processing emotions.
I find great value in working with individuals facing challenges from life transitions, identity, relationships, parenting, career/college, and family conflict. My specific areas of specialty include but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, stress, postpartum and maternal mental health, neurodivergence, ADHD, trauma, and grief. My approach to therapy focuses on honoring your strengths, recognizing family and social system influences, and assisting you in processing emotions.
(231) 272-2106 View (231) 272-2106
Photo of Faye Youker, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Faye Youker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
My approach is unique to each individual. Each individual is shaped in their own life experiences. My role as a counselor is to assist you in identifying your personal goals, while empowering positive change. My goal as a counselor is to listen, advocate, and provide support. I practice an integrated approach based upon individual preferences and needs to meet your therapy goals to enhance your daily living. I work with diverse populations including adolescences, teens, young adults, adults, and geriatric populations. Please email me and we can set up an initial consultation.
My approach is unique to each individual. Each individual is shaped in their own life experiences. My role as a counselor is to assist you in identifying your personal goals, while empowering positive change. My goal as a counselor is to listen, advocate, and provide support. I practice an integrated approach based upon individual preferences and needs to meet your therapy goals to enhance your daily living. I work with diverse populations including adolescences, teens, young adults, adults, and geriatric populations. Please email me and we can set up an initial consultation.
(231) 760-8784 View (231) 760-8784
Photo of Nadine Stark - Connective Counseling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connective Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
Are you thinking about making positive changes in your life? I believe we all have strengths we can use to navigate life's inevitable challenges, whether it's overcoming anxious thoughts, navigating the ups and downs of adolescence and parenting, or improving the quality of your relationships.
Are you thinking about making positive changes in your life? I believe we all have strengths we can use to navigate life's inevitable challenges, whether it's overcoming anxious thoughts, navigating the ups and downs of adolescence and parenting, or improving the quality of your relationships.
(231) 787-1802 View (231) 787-1802
Photo of Claire Benton - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Traverse City, Counselor
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Traverse City
Counselor
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Traverse City understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Traverse City understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
(231) 201-5513 View (231) 201-5513
Photo of Duane F Ellis - Reliance Christian Counseling, PLLC, Duane F Ellis, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reliance Christian Counseling, PLLC, Duane F Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
Waitlist for new clients
My counseling practice provides services to individuals, couples, and groups. Those who seek counseling assistance often face difficult life situations that cause emotional wounds, pain, and loss of hope. As a counselor, my role is to come alongside clients to help them understand the source of the issues that they face, help them identify solutions to their problems, and to encourage them in their efforts. Reestablishing a sense of hope is a major factor in this healing process.
My counseling practice provides services to individuals, couples, and groups. Those who seek counseling assistance often face difficult life situations that cause emotional wounds, pain, and loss of hope. As a counselor, my role is to come alongside clients to help them understand the source of the issues that they face, help them identify solutions to their problems, and to encourage them in their efforts. Reestablishing a sense of hope is a major factor in this healing process.
(231) 598-7577 View (231) 598-7577
Photo of Jessica Warpup, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Warpup
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686
My name is Jessica, and I'm hoping you will let me help you work through “every day” challenges to improve your relationships and daily functioning. I will work to provide an environment in which together you and I can work through your past and present struggles, coping mechanisms, and experiences in order to better understand your needs and ultimately yourself. This will help you to improve communication of your needs and thus your relationship(s) with others. I offer a secure place to be your authentic self where you can explore your history, self- and family values, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
My name is Jessica, and I'm hoping you will let me help you work through “every day” challenges to improve your relationships and daily functioning. I will work to provide an environment in which together you and I can work through your past and present struggles, coping mechanisms, and experiences in order to better understand your needs and ultimately yourself. This will help you to improve communication of your needs and thus your relationship(s) with others. I offer a secure place to be your authentic self where you can explore your history, self- and family values, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
(231) 216-0291 View (231) 216-0291
Photo of Michelle Reed, MA, LLMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Michelle Reed
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LLMFT
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
Sometimes, life feels dark. You wonder when life will feel good again, if it ever will. Maybe it all feels out of control. Nothing has worked so far. Is there hope? Or maybe you feel lost in life. You don't know who you truly are. Others don't know the true you either. You are scared if others knew, they would judge you. You don't know how you got here, to this point. What's next? Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, a relationship that feels like it isn't working anymore, or discontent with life, it feels heavy. Maybe you have felt this has to be your life, that healing is not possible for you.
Sometimes, life feels dark. You wonder when life will feel good again, if it ever will. Maybe it all feels out of control. Nothing has worked so far. Is there hope? Or maybe you feel lost in life. You don't know who you truly are. Others don't know the true you either. You are scared if others knew, they would judge you. You don't know how you got here, to this point. What's next? Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, a relationship that feels like it isn't working anymore, or discontent with life, it feels heavy. Maybe you have felt this has to be your life, that healing is not possible for you.
(231) 266-9688 View (231) 266-9688
Photo of Lindsay Sea Wills, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Lindsay Sea Wills
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
Life is about feeling our feelings, processing our experiences, overcoming hurdles and truly LIVING our lives in abundance. These elements contribute to living in the present with our whole hearts. My practice is called LIVE TRUE. I am always being lured to living true. To myself. To others. And to an abundant life. The Live True motto: Summoning strength and beauty. Igniting courage and compassion. May we all pursue what it means to truly LIVE! I offer individual and group counseling. Specialties include single mothers, teenagers, divorce, grief, loss, trauma, relationships, life transitions and career-related issues.
Life is about feeling our feelings, processing our experiences, overcoming hurdles and truly LIVING our lives in abundance. These elements contribute to living in the present with our whole hearts. My practice is called LIVE TRUE. I am always being lured to living true. To myself. To others. And to an abundant life. The Live True motto: Summoning strength and beauty. Igniting courage and compassion. May we all pursue what it means to truly LIVE! I offer individual and group counseling. Specialties include single mothers, teenagers, divorce, grief, loss, trauma, relationships, life transitions and career-related issues.
(231) 613-3007 View (231) 613-3007
Photo of Kathryn Penfold - Kathryn Penfold, M.Sc, LLP, BSW, MSc, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Kathryn Penfold, M.Sc, LLP
Limited Licensed Psychologist, BSW, MSc, LLP
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
I employ a diverse approach to therapy based on my knowledge of psychological philosophies and techniques in conjunction with the personality and needs of each client.
I employ a diverse approach to therapy based on my knowledge of psychological philosophies and techniques in conjunction with the personality and needs of each client.
(231) 322-7099 View (231) 322-7099
Photo of Megan Kay Morrissey, LLPC, Counselor
Megan Kay Morrissey
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686
My personal motto is "No mud. No lotus." To me, this means, without suffering there cannot be beauty. My entire life I have been fascinated with resilience- the ability to overcome. What makes people stronger when they they have faced so much adversity? I started my career focused on how to help people become more resilient, and along the way I have learned so much, not just about overcoming obstacles, but also about building up strengths.
My personal motto is "No mud. No lotus." To me, this means, without suffering there cannot be beauty. My entire life I have been fascinated with resilience- the ability to overcome. What makes people stronger when they they have faced so much adversity? I started my career focused on how to help people become more resilient, and along the way I have learned so much, not just about overcoming obstacles, but also about building up strengths.
(231) 645-6410 View (231) 645-6410
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See more therapy options for Traverse City

Self Esteem Therapists

When should a person seek therapy for low self-esteem?

When self-esteem problems begin to disrupt the healthy daily functioning of an individual, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If a person finds that they are not engaging with friends for fear of being judged, not completing work assignments because they don’t think they’re capable, or not finding romantic love because they don’t feel they’re worthy of it, a therapist may be able to help.

What are the signs of low self-esteem?

Low self-esteem is a common issue that can affect a person's mental and emotional well-being. Some common signs of low self-esteem include negative self-talk, perfectionism, social anxiety, difficulty making decisions, an inability to set boundaries, people-pleasing, and others. A lack of belief in oneself or one’s abilities and a feeling of not being worthy or deserving underlie most of these characteristics.

What causes low self-esteem?

Feelings of low self-worth can begin in childhood or adulthood. Being raised by a highly critical parent or growing up feeling constant disapproval can stay with a person well into adulthood. Specific issues in adulthood may also be a cause of low self-esteem. An unhappy relationship, a dysfunctional work or school experience can impact a person’s feelings of self-worth.

How can therapy improve self-esteem?

Therapists can help identify negative thought patterns that keep the client stuck in a loop of destructive self-talk and develop coping skills to change the voice in their head. A therapist can help with goal-setting, so that clients are better able to stay on task and build confidence from successfully completing work they’re proud of. Coaching a client on how to better communicate can improve relationships. These skills can result in someone with low self-esteem feeling empowered and living with less fear.