Diana Simpson, MA, LPC - Clinical Supervisor

Phone: 616-426-9034, ext. 646
Email: dsimpson@secondstorycounseling.com

MA Counseling - Western Michigan University

The details of each of our lives vary significantly, but none of us escape facing profound disappointments, the ache of loss, wrestling with moral guilt, and navigating feelings of shame or hopelessness. This is true of my story. I have been hurt by people I love. I have hurt people I love. I have wept with grief. I nearly died from a tumor I didn't know I had. Life has too frequently felt uncertain and unsafe.

But there is Hope.

We are hurt in relationship, and we are healed in relationship. This has also been true in my story. Vital friends and mentors have offered safe places where I can be vulnerable and broken without judgement. Experiencing forgiveness and learning how to offer forgiveness has been life changing. I have found great joy in knowing the mercy of God. I know my experiences are not unique, and it is my privilege to walk alongside others in the tension of pain and hope.

When I'm not working, I enjoy traveling, hiking, and spending time with my husband and 3 children. And when I'm not thoroughly exhausted from parenting, you might find me running, playing music, or grabbing hot chocolate with a friend.

My Approach

I believe your story is sacred, and that it is unique in its joys and disappointments. I hope to provide a safe space where we can build a strong therapeutic relationship, where you know you can share honestly and vulnerably without fear of judgement. As you share your concerns and needs, it is my privilege to offer encouragement, ask helpful questions, facilitate discussion and encourage insight and reflection. I believe you are the expert in the room about your own life. I pull from a variety of counseling theories in offering support, as I do not believe any one theory offers all answers. I tend to favor concepts found in CBT, TF CBT, MI, and Narrative Therapy. As a Christian, I also appreciate utilizing a faith-based approach when requested.

What you can expect

I recognize that it takes tremendous courage to reach out for help, and it is important to me that you feel safe and comfortable. I will work hard to listen well and to honor the joys and pains of your story. I hope we can build a collaborative relationship that fosters hope and healing.