Kerri Chamberlain, MSW, LLMSW
Phone: 616-426-9034, Ext. 736
Email: kchamberlain@secondstorycounseling.com
MSW - Western Michigan University
Life can be really hard, and navigating its unexpected challenges is often more difficult than we ever imagined. Emotional suffering can often leave us feeling isolated, alone, and without hope. I've experienced firsthand the power of meaningful connection as a source of healing and hope while walking through the dark valleys of my own story. For me, being present to someone else's story is one of life's greatest gifts. It would be a privilege to walk alongside you as you navigate yours.
When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time outside, good coffee, baking anything sweet, and running. Most days, however, you'll find me trying to keep up with the wild and wonderful chaos of my four kids.
My Approach
I believe therapy is most effective when it is collaborative and tailored to who you are, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. My work is grounded in a person-centered perspective, while drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused, and body-based techniques. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based approach that can help the brain process distressing or traumatic experiences so they feel less overwhelming in the present. I often integrate Internal Family Systems (IFS) principles as well, which can help us understand different parts of ourselves with greater curiosity and compassion. I have experience working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, religious trauma, questions around sexual orientation and gender identity, struggles with addiction, self-harm, and other unwanted thoughts and behaviors.
I am also trained in Christian faith-based inner healing prayer, which integrates prayer and Christian faith into the therapeutic process. When desired, I incorporate this approach to help clients explore emotional wounds and life experiences while honoring their beliefs, values, and relationship with God.
What You Can Expect
You'll be welcomed into a safe, compassionate, and authentic space. Our initial sessions will be a time to get to know each other, explore what's bringing you to therapy, and begin identifying your goals. We'll talk through what's most important to you, what you're hoping to change or understand, and how we can best use our time together to support your growth. Later sessions will be shaped by your unique needs and pace. Some days may involve deeper emotional work, while others may focus on building practical tools, or simply creating space to breathe and reflect. This is your time, and there's no one "right" way to show up.
You can expect someone who genuinely cares about your whole person-mind, body, and spirit-and who is ready to meet you in the depths of whatever you're carrying. Whether you're coming with a clear focus or just a sense that something needs to change, you are welcome here, exactly as you are.