Therapists for college students near Michigan State University

Welcome to my profile, I am an MSU alum that has experience with MSU as a student and as a therapist for students. My practice has been providing care to MSU students for several years and I have the knowledge to help students best understand the resources at MSU. I have worked with clients on issues such as; depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, stress and interpersonal dilemmas. Hope to talk to you soon!

Welcome to Therapy Services of East Lansing! The therapeutic relationship is one of the most significant factors in fostering meaningful change and personal growth. For this reason, finding the “right” therapist is an essential part of the process. We invite you to take some time to explore our website to find the provider that will be the best fit for you. Please note that all evening and weekend availability is by appointment only. Thank you, in advance, for exploring our site. If you have any questions, our clinicians are here to help. https://www.therapyservicesofeastlansing.org/ ​

At Brighter Health, we believe in the transformative power of counseling, providing compassionate support tailored to your unique journey. Join us in creating a brighter, healthier future where your well-being is our top priority. We are a local private practice in Okemos, that offers virtual and in person appointments, based on your specific needs. Our therapists work with stress, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, autism, OCD, interpersonal and relationship conflicts, ADHD and we are LGBTQ+ ally's. "You're in Good Hands with Us!"

Bilingual Support for Students & Adults Serving East Lansing, Lansing, MI & communities across Florida Available in English & Español Thank you for stopping by. Reaching out takes courage—I’m here to help you navigate stress, life changes, identity questions, relationship challenges, or simply feeling stuck. What Students Often Seek: Relief from academic pressure and exam anxiety Motivation boosts and self-confidence tools Guidance on cultural/family expectations and belonging Support through relationship or life transitions Practical coping strategies in a safe, validating space What Sessions Are Like: A calm, nonjudgmental space to share your story Collaborative goal-setting and strength-spotting Evidence-based techniques (ACT, EFT, Solution-Focused) tailored to you Small, actionable steps that build confidence Flexible pace and focus based on what you need You don’t have to face tough seasons alone—therapy can bring clarity, connection, and practical skills to help you move forward. Ready to Begin? If you’re curious or ready to schedule, reach out to learn more or book your first session.

You look like you’re holding it together on the outside, but inside your mind never really slows down. Maybe you overthink everything after the fact, put pressure on yourself to get things “right,” or feel emotionally exhausted from constantly trying to keep up. Even when you finally have time to relax, your brain keeps going. The worry, self-doubt, and pressure can become overwhelming. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I work with people who struggle with anxiety, overthinking, perfectionism, burnout, and feeling stuck in patterns that leave them mentally drained. Many of my clients are high-achieving, caring, and incredibly hard on themselves. They’re used to pushing through, but deep down they want to feel calmer, more grounded, and more like themselves again. Therapy with me is warm, supportive, and real. I want you to feel like you can show up exactly as you are here—without having to explain everything perfectly or pretend you’re doing okay when you’re not. Together, we’ll make sense of what’s been weighing on you and help you find ways to quiet the constant mental noise. I won’t just sit back and nod. I’ll gently guide you, help you notice patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and offer practical tools that actually fit your life. At the same time, we’ll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. My hope is that therapy becomes a place where you can finally exhale a little. A place where you feel understood, supported, and less alone in what you’re carrying. You don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out. If this resonates with you, I’d love to connect.

I graduated from Michigan State University with a Master of Social Work degree in 2021. I am fluent in Spanish and have specialized training in working with trauma and psychosis related distress as well as experience working with anxiety, depression, and managing overall life stress. In addition, my training offered experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse using the evidence-based trauma treatment model cognitive processing therapy. I believe that every individual is the expert of their experience and is deserving of a safe space where they can express themselves and feel heard. My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and empowerment-focused. I aim to highlight the individual resilience and strengths of each person as they work towards their goals, empowering and supporting individuals through their unique wellness journeys.

I graduated from Michigan State University with a Master of Social Work degree in 2007. Since this time, I have spent my career working with adults and young adults experiencing a variety of mental health concerns with special attention to distress related to depression, anxiety, life transition, psychosis, mania, self-esteem, and loss. Although I have specialized training in CBTp (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for psychosis), IRT (Individual Resiliency Trainer), and CFT (Compassion Focused Therapy), I also recognize that each individual arrives in therapy for different reasons. As a practitioner who values self-determination and the individual wisdom of each of my clients, I aim to find what is most helpful to each person based on their unique needs. Therefore, I see my role as offering space to support the personal growth process for those in distress or in search for greater meaning in their life. This may be through cognitive restructuring, behavioral experimentation, compassion-focused techniques, acceptance and commitment strategies or through the interpersonal process.

I believe that therapy is a partnership where you and I work together to achieve your chosen goals. While I can draw upon my skills, experience, education and training to offer coping skills, new perspectives, and options, I believe that you are the expert in your own lived experience. I understand that you may be new to therapy, or have had negative experiences with therapy in the past. I hope to offer a safe space through non-judgmental, compassionate responses to help you overcome the challenges you are facing. I have 26 years of experience providing advocacy for survivors of domestic violence from diverse backgrounds. I have supported numerous survivors who have experienced anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and/or systems-induced trauma (trauma induced from the criminal legal system, the family courts, and CPS). I have been a member of Reimagining Transformative Community Services since 2020, a group dedicated to building community capacity to address harms as an alternative to systems that create more harm. I have been licensed in Clinical and Macro Practice since 2014. I grew up in Lansing, MI. I still live in the area because there is a lot to do here, yet it only takes 15-20 minutes to get anywhere by car. I love to cook and spend time with my dog. My dream job is to be a stay-at-home dog mom. Until then, I work to normalize therapy, help people get to better places in their lives, and advocate for community care in addition to self-care.

People seek out a therapist for a variety of reasons-day-to-day life stressors, unhelpful thoughts, or significant life transitions. I want to provide people with a space where they can process any of these topics in a compassionate and empathetic manner. Therapy is a journey and I seek to walk this journey by your side while empowering you to explore, identify, and live the best versions of your life. Prior to working at Therapy Today, I worked at Community Mental health for nearly a decade in various roles and with various populations. I have also worked in a residential treatment facility for youth. In both roles, I provided individual and group therapy and I worked with youth and their families in navigating family dynamics and systems.

“Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.”–Carl Jung I have an integrated approach to therapy, using a variety of methods and theories to best serve each person’s needs. I use specific methods as needed, but the main focus is on understanding the client with their unique history and personality. I strive to create a safe space for honest conversation that encourages healing and growth to help navigate life’s complexities and difficulties. My field work during my MSW program was in community mental health where I worked with people dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, and grief, among other concerns. I have worked with people from devout religious backgrounds as well as those who have been hurt in that environment. I have worked with couples, and I have helped people experiencing significant periods of change in their lives.

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” -Lao Tzu My name is Taibriana Wilkins. I am an African-American BIPOC woman, using she/her/ella pronouns. My love of cultures, exploration and language encouraged me to travel and live abroad. Before studying to be a clinical social worker and therapist, I spent a few years in Buenos Aires, Argentina and Hyogo prefecture, Japan working as an English Foreign Language teacher. I was able to improve my language skills, eat delicious food, and explore. One of the major themes I gained from living abroad and living in Michigan is the ability to manage and adjust to transitions. Life is full of transitions, whether it be adjusting to an unfamiliar environment, readjusting to a familiar environment, a new position, changes in family dynamics and social life, it is important to practice skills related to connecting with yourself and others. I provide a non-judgmental space for YOU to play and explore life while in therapy. To reflect on the past and consider the future, it is valuable to be grounded in the present. When we play, we are in the present moment. I am warm, encouraging, direct and enjoy sharing a laugh. Attending and engaging in therapy can provoke a host of emotional responses. Developing a positive relationship between YOU the client and myself the therapist is important for exploration and when practicing vulnerability. In session, YOU may seek insight into everyday situations, examine patterns of behavior, and practice coping skills to navigate difficult moments. I specialize in serving teens/adolescents, college students, young adults, and clients of marginalized identities including Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), International students, immigrants, and LGBTQIAS2+ populations. I have practiced at a Lansing area community center and at Michigan State University. Topics of focus in session surround navigating anxiety, depression, self-esteem, time management skills, family dynamics, and identity formation.

‘Find out who you are and do it on purpose.’ — Dolly Parton My counseling approach is centered around collaborating with individuals to address the issues they bring to our sessions. I believe in helping clients identify their strengths and cultivate self-awareness. My therapeutic style is eclectic, drawing from various theoretical approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, family-based treatment, and motivational interviewing. In our sessions, I emphasize active client involvement and efforts to change thoughts, feelings, and behaviors both within and outside of counseling. I provide assignments, coping exercises, journaling, and other projects as necessary. Change is often a deliberate and gradual process, and while some transformations may be swift, many require sustained effort. I hold a Master of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. I am trained to provide psychotherapy treatment in individual, couple, and group contexts. I am knowledgeable in treating depression, anxiety, marriage and family, trauma, and spiritual issues. Additionally, I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Michigan State University and I have been a licensed teacher for the past four years. Currently, I am working as a licensed School Counselor at a local public school. I am also a professional member of the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the American School Counselor Association (ASCA).

“When we are no longer able to change a situation – we are challenged to change ourselves.” -Viktor E. Frankl My goal as a therapist is to create a non-judgmental environment where clients can feel safe and empowered. As a therapist, I am empathic, approachable, and genuine, which are qualities that help me effectively listen to each client with compassion. Deciding to enter therapy is not only about getting help, but also about going on a courageous journey to find a new level of awareness. Although it requires hard work, I believe every individual has the resilience within themselves to overcome difficult emotions and traumatic experiences through the discovery of meaning and the instillation of hope. During my internship at Siena Heights University, I gained valuable experience working with preteens in a socioeconomically disadvantaged school setting. I also spent time after college working with a special education teacher, assisting students with behavioral and emotional challenges. In addition to seeing clients in person, I have worked for a practice virtually serving younger to older adults with a variety of mental health issues and life stressors.

I believe the most effective therapy comes from a relationship with the therapist that is grounded in trust, respect, and compassion. My approach to therapy is to create an environment that is safe, nonjudgmental, and validating. I was a volunteer facilitator with the Early Elementary age group at Ele’s Place in Grand Rapids, an agency serving grieving children who have lost a loved one, for two years while I completed my bachelor in social work. During that time I also worked as a social work intern with Cherry Health West Side Pediatric clinic working with kids and adolescents on meeting their health goals as well as serving kids with ADHD. After completing my degree I worked at Community Mental Health for Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham county as a Wraparound facilitator serving families and children. Most recently during my MSW program, I worked for nine months as a therapist intern with Cedar Creek Partial Hospitalization Program serving a broad population of adults suffering from severe acute/persistent mental illness.

You can take your “I’m okay” hat off now. It’s just me. Fall apart. I’m not going anywhere. -Erin Van Vuren I appreciate all those who take the step and seek out assistance during stressful and difficult times. I plan to provide a safe space and meet those where they are at to assist in growth and gaining skills to overcome life challenges. I believe in taking a strength based approach and will work to identify the best ways to reach your goals. I have worked as a Mental Health Therapist for the past 9 years in a variety of settings. I have worked with individuals and families of all ages.

“Mental Health is not a destination but a Process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.” Noam Spencer, PhD There are times when life’s challenges can feel harder to deal with than others, and when this happens, you may need additional help. I have a developmental, client-centered, strengths-based approach to the therapy process. So whether you are brand new to therapy or very experienced, I view my role as your therapist as someone who can support you along your unique healing journey by helping you to better understand and, when needed, make peace with your story while also working on practical coping skills to help daily life feel more manageable. Having worked in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, a nursing home with a neurorehabilitation department, and a college counseling center, I have experience supporting adults of all ages with many various mental health stressors. Additionally, it is imperative to me to be integrated and updated with the emergent practices of Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion as related to the mental health field. This includes providing, to the best of my ability, informed multicultural counseling that considers sensitivity to issues surrounding anti-racism, cultural identity development, body positivity, gender identity development, diversity of abilities, and neurodiversity. I also feel that therapy is an investment in overall wellness, so it is important to me that both my clients and I make it a priority, which includes scheduling appointments on the same day and time of the week as much as possible to maintain consistency.

I value having an authentic connection in therapy. I think a good fit in the relationship between client and therapist is an important foundation. My goal is to understand precisely what clients want to work on and help them reach their goals. I am actively involved in the dialogue of the session and like to provide validation, education, and options for responding to problems. I have worked as a home-based case manager helping people with psychosis, mood disorders and substance use disorders. I have specialized in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy treating clients with emotion dysregulation disorders. I have worked to help clients transition from an inpatient mental health admission to their outpatient treatment. I have experience working with older adults and adults with chronic illness and cognitive disorders. I am available to work with couples, parents and teens ages 16 and up.

“Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful parts of us.” – David Richo Everyone experiences unique challenges throughout life. My therapeutic approach is to create a relaxed, safe environment where you feel comfortable sharing your challenges and stressors. I value the importance of developing a strong therapeutic connection, as it is essential for growth. I utilize strengths-based and motivational interviewing approaches. Prior to working in private practice, I have over 7 years experience working with Veterans and their families. This has provided me with opportunities to work with individuals who struggle with PTSD, depression, and anxiety. I facilitated stress realization and single parent groups where I introduced individuals to stress relaxation techniques and discussed feelings surrounding shame, guilt, and vulnerability.

I believe that each person is an expert on their own unique experience. I view my role as being a guide in assisting people towards discovering and reaching their goals towards enhancing and enriching their lives. I use a strength-based, person-centered approach to build a strong foundation for the therapeutic relationship. I strive to provide a safe, open environment where I can meet my clients where they are at and help them on their journey. In addition to working in a private practice setting, I have provided case management and psychotherapy at two different Community Mental Health organizations, a domestic violence center, a youth shelter, a specialized facility, and a hospital. I have worked with teens with learning obstacles and behavior concerns, women who experienced sexual assault and domestic violence, young adults who experienced first episodes of psychosis, life transitions, eating disorders, and stress management, couples experiencing communication and trust issues, and adults with mental illness and co-occurring disorders.

“Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength.” I believe that everyone deserves a place to feel safe and seen. In my approach, I strive to create an environment of acceptance and warmth, while striking a balance of change and accountability to help you reach your goals. Doubtless, you have overcome so much on your journey, and my goal is to help you embrace and hone the strengths you already possess. I have previous experience working as an outpatient therapist at the DBT Institute of Michigan, where I practiced fully comprehensive DBT and taught DBT skills groups, with special focus on young adults and the LGBTQ+ community. Although I do not currently offer fully comprehensive DBT, the model continues to inform my practice.