Robert Ritzema, PhD, MA

Phone: 616-426-9034, ext. 650
Email: rritzema@secondstorycounseling.com

PhD - Kent State University

MA - Kent State University

BA - Calvin University

Here’s a saying that resonates with me: “Be kind, for everyone is fighting a hard battle you know nothing about.” I’ve benefitted tremendously from others who’ve both taken the time to ask about the battles I face and have shown me the kindness that I so need. As a therapist, I try to do the same for my clients. I’ve been in the field of psychology for 40 years, and have worked as an administrator and college prof. I’ve found that helping individuals, couples, and families with their struggles to be the most meaningful and important work that I could possibly do, though, and I’ve returned to it again and again.

I left full-time work over 10 years ago, feeling called to move back to my hometown of Grand Rapids to care for my elderly parents. I was fortunate to be able to spend their last years with them. Now that they are both gone, I started 2023 by moving into an intentional Christian community that is a half-hour away from where my eldest son and his family live. My days are spent working part-time as a therapist, participating in community life, doting on my grandchildren, reading, writing, and biking.

My Approach

My approach to therapy is present-focused: What is going on right now? What struggles do you face, and what stands in the way of resolving them? What values guide you, and where are you heading? I look at life as a process of ongoing development, and seek to help clients resolve whatever issues and challenges they face at their current developmental stage. Therapy often involves looking at what occurred in the past to cause problems in the here and now—traumas, attachment wounds, and unhealthy learnings, for example. It also frequently involves identifying and changing unhealthy ways of thinking and revising the story the client tells him- or herself to be more accurate and healthy.

What you can expect

Psychotherapy is a professional service, and is at the same time an interpersonal relationship. I will work with you to both identify goals for counseling and to help you accomplish those goals. Sessions may include an exploration of thoughts, feelings, personal history, communication styles, habits, goals, values, attitudes, and beliefs. Beneficial effects commonly include improved mood, greater self-understanding, reduced discomfort, and more effective coping skills. I look forward to getting to know you.