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Supporting Your Journey To Healing and Growth

Specializing in overcoming Generational Trauma, Relationship Challenges, and Parenting Support

About Me
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About Me

Hi, I'm Alicia.

I’m so glad you’re here. Choosing a therapist can be an incredibly overwhelming experience these days, and if you’re reading this you are taking the first, and arguably the hardest step in seeking support. Let’s find out if I’m a good fit for you. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker out of Grand Valley State University, and I have several years of experience working with adults in inpatient and outpatient settings struggling with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, trauma, and mood disorders.

I believe therapy is a collaborative relationship between therapist and client, and it is important to create a dynamic where we both show up authentically. To help support this relationship, I believe meeting face-to-face allows for the opportunity to prioritize you by minimizing distractions and stepping away from this busy world.

My mission is simple: to meet wherever you are in this mental wellness journey by encouraging the identification of your strengths and providing the skills and support required to live the life you want and rediscover the favorite parts of yourself.

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Counseling

My Approach

I utilize an eclectic therapeutic approach incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT-informed), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), trauma-informed, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques to help untangle the complex interplay between thoughts, emotions, past experiences, and overall well-being. Whether it’s carrying the weight of generational trauma, navigating complex relationships, or facing parenting challenges, my goal is to create a feeling of empowerment from gaining a greater understanding of yourself and the world around you.

6350 +
LGBTQ+ Allied
3200 +
Sex Worker Allied
20 +
Racial Justice Allied
15 +
Single Parent Allied

PTSD

PTSD can develop after trauma like accidents, abuse, or harmful relationships. It can leave you on edge, replaying memories, and feeling disconnected from others. Healing begins in a safe, supportive space where you can rebuild safety and connection.

Generational Trauma

Generational trauma is the emotional pain passed down through families after war, oppression, or abuse. Its effects can appear as anxiety, trust issues, or repeating patterns that feel hard to break. With awareness and support, these cycles can be understood and transformed.

Depression

Depression is more than sadness—it can drain your energy, motivation, and daily life. It may look like numbness, hopelessness, irritability, or exhaustion, and it shows up differently for everyone. With support, it’s possible to understand the roots, manage symptoms, and feel like yourself again.

Relationships

Relationships shape our emotional well-being, offering comfort and stability—or stress and self-doubt. Old patterns, unclear boundaries, or difficulty trusting can make connections feel hard. Exploring these dynamics can help you build healthier, more fulfilling relationships with others and yourself.

Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural stress response, but when it’s constant it can take over daily life. It may show up as racing thoughts, restlessness, tension, or a sense of dread. With support, you can learn to manage it, ease the stress, and feel more grounded.

Men's Issues

Many men feel therapy isn’t built for them, yet societal pressures around masculinity can make it hard to seek help. Stress, depression, relationship struggles, and the pressure to “be strong” often go unspoken. Therapy offers a safe space to break stereotypes, explore emotions, and build healthier ways of living.
The Process

The Process of Therapy

Taking the first step to begin therapy is often one of the most courageous and brave decisions you can make. It means facing vulnerability, uncertainty, and the difficulty of bopening up about personal struggles. Even scheduling that initial appointment can be scary while also highlighting your hope for change.

In our first session together, my priority is to create a safe and supportive space for you. I will explain confidentiality and what you can expect throughout the therapeutic process. You’ll have the opportunity to share your story, your current struggles, and what brought you here. I understand this can sometimes feel overwhelming or uncomfortable, as it requires us to face feelings and experiences you may have avoided or suppressed.

It’s important to know that many clients experience a natural increase in emotional discomfort at the start of therapy. As you begin to explore difficult thoughts and feelings, it can sometimes feel like therapy is making things harder before they get better. This is a normal part of healing — uncovering unresolved pain or inner conflict can bring strong emotions and uncertainty to the surface.

My role is to support you through these challenging moments, helping you build trust, resilience, and effective coping skills. Over time, the work we do together will create a foundation for growth, insight, and lasting healing.

If you ever feel uneasy or challenged during therapy, please remember that this often means important progress is happening beneath the surface. Choosing to embark on this journey is a powerful testament to your strength and dedication to your well-being.

I’m here to sit in the mess with you and walk alongside you every step of the way.

Mon - Fri: 9AM - 5PM

3501 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE Suite 220
Grand Rapids, MI 49546

(616) 205-9448
aj@aliciajcounseling.com

Do you have

Any Questions

I offer individual in-person therapy sessions to help meet the needs of the therapeutic relationship. While I feel individuals can get the most out of their personal growth by meeting without the barrier of technology, I do reserve the option for telehealth sessions on a case-by- case basis.
You can contact me by calling (616) 205-9448, or clicking the “Contact” button at the top of the webpage to send an email. I will respond within 24 business hours to answer any questions you may have and discuss scheduling availability. I offer a free 15-minute consultation phone call to explore your goals and assess if I may be the right provider for you.
Yes. I am in-network with the following insurance plans: Aetna, ASR Health Benefits, Blue Care Network, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Optum, Priority Health, and TRICARE. Contact me for more information on Out of Network benefit options.
Yes, I offer private pay rates at $165/session and have a set number of sliding scale sessions at any given time. Contact me to see if you are eligible for private pay or sliding scale fee options.
Yes, my therapy space provides several modes of accessibility. The office building provides accessible parking spaces at the front entrance and in the overflow parking lot, a wheelchair ramp into the building, and an elevator just a few feet from the entrance. There is also a public transit bus stop right at the edge of the parking lot.
Developing a therapeutic relationship is a personal process as every individual is unique in their treatment needs. An effective therapy match will create a space where you feel heard and understood, and their approach is aligned with your therapy goals. It is important to keep an open mind during the first few sessions before deciding if a therapist is the right fit. If you feel like something else might be a better match, discuss alternative options with your therapist to best meet your mental health needs.