Jessica Strayer, Intern

Phone: 616-426-9034, ext. 690
Email: jstrayer@secondstorycounseling.com

BA  Public and Nonprofit Admin - Grand Valley State University.
MA in Counseling Student - Cornerstone University (In Progress)

I am passionate about sitting with others and uncovering their unique stories, strengths, and life concerns. Partnering with others to navigate being human. Helping them navigate through life's challenges, offering compassion and collaboration along the way to implementing positive and lasting change. I think Fred Rogers put it best in summarizing my passion for counseling better than I ever could when he said, "Anything human is mentionable, and anything mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. The people we trust with that important talk can help us know that we are not alone."

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our families, friends, and our cat, Mister. I also enjoy traveling, playing games card games, cooking, reading, and staying active through camping, hiking, riding bikes, and swimming!

My Approach

I like to utilize a variety of approaches, techniques, and developmentally appropriate interventions to best fit the unique qualities, strengths, and needs of each client. I often gravitate towards CBT, person-centered approach, MI, and Narrative Therapy. As a Christian I also appreciate utilizing a faith-based approach if and when it is requested as well.

What you can expect

During our first few sessions, I look forward to getting to know one another and hearing about your story, your life concerns, your hopes, dreams, and what you want to get out of counseling. From here, we will work in collaboration to create some specific goals that you are hoping to achieve in our time together. Throughout the counseling process, we will navigate these goals together, as I offer support, resources, and tools along the way to successfully navigate life's difficulties and changes.