Annika Smeenge, LLMSW

Phone: 616-426-9034, ext. 715
Email: Asmeenge@secondstorycounseling.com

MSW - Grand Valley State University

There is deep bravery in and healing found in vulnerability, and it takes immense strength to seek help. I am honored you are considering allowing me to walk in that with you! Through my own life story I have learned how beautiful and messy life is, and that going it alone makes the beauty less noticeable and the mess more difficult. Together we can work toward a greater sense of peace as you go through life's challenges and build skills to make those challenges less overwhelming.

When I'm not working, I find my own peace in nature walks with my golden retriever Eddie, camping, thrifting, crafting, and being with my family and friends. I also find my own benefit from therapy and have participated in it at various times in my life.

My Approach

As we establish a therapeutic relationship we will begin to dig deeper into the uniqueness of your story and find an approach that might fit best. I hope to offer you a safe space to share vulnerably and without judgement. I work from a strengths-based and person-centered approach, encouraging each individual to be the captain of their treatment with me aiding in navigation. I often find myself turning toward techniques like internal family systems, narrative therapy, attachment theory and cognitive behavioral therapy for a frame of reference.

What you Can Expect

Our time together will start with getting to know you and your needs, as well as beginning to discuss the goals you are setting out to accomplish with the help of therapy. I will also take the time to understand the culturally significant elements to your story so that the environment we build together is as safe and supportive as possible. My hope is that our time together can help you build up your abilities to emotionally regulate, grow in self confidence, and become more at peace in your story.