About Chelsea
My Approach
Most of all, my style is to show up as my authentic self, because that’s what I hope to help you to do too.
My primary theoretical orientation is a blend between relational psychodynamic and a Buddhist-founded approach called contemplative psychotherapy. However, I may incorporate a variety of other styles and techniques depending on your individual needs. These include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, somatic interventions, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Internal Family Systems.
My approach is compassionate, evidenced-based, grounded, trauma-informed, and practiced with multicultural humility. My mission is to help each person uncover and embrace their basic human nature of clarity, compassion, courage, and ease.
Education and Experience
I hold a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Contemplative Psychotherapy and Buddhist Psychology. My bachelor’s degree—and first love—is in social work from West Virginia University. I’ve received intensive training in trauma-informed care and specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD.
For five years in Colorado, I worked at a nonprofit serving adults with cognitive and developmental disabilities, autistic folks, and those with traumatic brain injuries. I wore many hats across departments and came to deeply respect the richness of neurodivergence. As someone who’s neurodivergent myself, I value the full range of how minds work—and I reject the idea that “normal” is better (whatever “normal” even means).
Here in Grand Rapids, I’ve had the privilege of working at a group practice focused on queer and trans-competent care. It was a space of collaboration, growth, and connection—with both clients and a truly gifted team of therapists. Supporting the queer and trans community has become not only a strength, but a deeply rooted passion that continues to shape and energize my work every day.
Specializations
While I center and tailor most of my work with the queer and transgender community, I strive to create an open and affirmative space for all.
I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, grief, gender identity challenges, coping with oppressive systems, life transitions, and OCD. I also guide clients in enhancing mindfulness and presence in their lives.
What to Expect
During our sessions, you can expect me to take time to get to know you and learn all about your strengths and resilience alongside the struggles that may be bringing you to therapy. When appropriate, I love to teach about the brain and nervous systems in order empower you with the knowledge of what's happening in mind and body. We will also observe thoughts, feelings, and sensations that arise in therapy in order to work directly in the present moment.
During our sessions, I do not immediately jump to advice-giving, instead I use your questions as an opportunity for you to explore your own thoughts, feelings, and inner wisdom. Of course, I do not gate-keep my professional opinions or perspectives if I feel they will directly benefit you. You can expect me to ask for permission before sharing my thoughts and suggestions. If we are engaging in Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD or related conditions, then I typically take a more directive approach, due to my desire to provide the ample psycho-education and evidenced-based care that OCD treatment requires.
In our sessions, I may invite you to notice what is happening here-and-now with curiosity and compassion, as well as explore the old stories and painful moments preventing you from ease. With your permission and at your pace, I will guide you through these difficult experiences with mindfulness, compassion, and curiosity.
Lucy, AKA: Goose, Goose-Egg, Perfect Angel, Daughter, Stinky Girl, My Best Girl. Learn more about Lucy HERE.
I’m a Regular Human
Most of my time is spent at home with my spouse, our toddler, and our two fur babies. These days, getting out isn’t as easy, but I’ve learned to find joy in the little things at home—gardening, collecting plants, dancing, being silly together, or just enjoying a quiet moment. When I do venture out, you’ll probably find me wandering a thrift store, lingering in a garden center, or off on an adventure with our dog and Best Girl, Lucy.
I have a soft spot for old things, good food, and sending my siblings the most ridiculous memes I can find.