Nick Lenz, MA, LLC

Phone: 616-426-9034, ext. 699
Email nlenz@secondstorycounseling.com

MA Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Aquinas College

While each person’s life story is uniquely their own, shared experiences—grief, loss, heartbreak, shame, and hopelessness—connect us all. What shapes us isn’t just the pain we encounter, but how we make meaning of it and choose to tell our story. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I believe in creating a safe, open, and accepting space where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences, build resilience, and move forward with clarity and strength. My goal is to walk alongside individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and reclaim their sense of self. 

Outside of my work as a counselor, I enjoy staying active and connecting with the world around me. Whether it’s skateboarding, snowboarding, basketball, baseball, weightlifting, pickleball, or simply going for a walk or hike, I find movement to be a powerful way to recharge both mentally and physically. I value quality time with family and friends, and I’m also passionate about cars, tufting, and swimming. Traveling is another passion of mine as it pushes me beyond my comfort zone and invites new experiences and perspectives, which I deeply value in both life and in my work with clients.

My Approach

The first and most important step in this process is building a genuine connection. I prioritize creating a space where clients feel safe, accepted, and free to be themselves. Part of my approach is allowing time for us to get to know each other—just as clients need to feel seen and understood, I also believe it's important for them to feel comfortable getting to know me. Trust takes time, and I honor that by moving at a pace that feels right for each person, especially when working through difficult emotions and experiences.I believe that every person’s experience is unique, and therapy should reflect that. Because no single approach fits all, I draw from a variety of evidence-based frameworks, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. My goal is to tailor each session to meet the specific needs, goals, and preferences of the individual I’m working with. I value collaboration and flexibility, allowing the therapeutic process to evolve as we discover what’s most helpful for the client.

What You Can Expect

Counseling can feel intimidating. Sitting down with someone you’ve just met and opening up about your life isn’t something most people do every day. That’s why you can expect a space that is open, accepting, and nonjudgmental. From our first session, my priority is to get to know you, not just the challenges you’re facing, but who you are, what you believe, and how you make sense of the world around you.Our time together is centered around you. My role is to walk alongside you as you explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, helping you move toward the life you want to live.