“I became a therapist because I believe in the resilience of people and the power of being truly heard. I am passionate about walking alongside individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and begin to make meaningful changes. I believe that healing happens through connection, and I feel privileged to support clients as they uncover their strengths, regain hope and move toward a more fulfilling life.”
Anna believes that each person is the expert on their own life. She takes a collaborative and empowering approach to therapy, working together with clients to identify meaningful goals and pathways forward. Clients can expect a supportive and affirming space where their identities, experiences and values are honored. Anna strives to create a safe environment, particularly for those who have experienced trauma or come from marginalized communities, and she works to ensure each client feels respected and understood.
Anna is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Her therapeutic work often focuses on helping clients develop coping skills, process trauma, and challenge unhelpful thought patterns. Anna is comfortable supporting clients through a variety of concerns including PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, religious trauma, domestic/sexual violence, and other anxiety-related disorders.
In treatment with Anna, clients can expect a balance of compassion, validation, and challenge. Sessions are client-led and adapted to meet individual needs, often including discussion, skill-building, and practical strategies to support progress outside of sessions. Anna encourages open communication and feedback to ensure therapy stays relevant and impactful. Together, she and her clients work toward greater self-understanding, emotional regulation, and empowered decision-making.
Anna received her Bachelor of Social Work from Grand Valley State University in 2014, and her Master of Social Work from Michigan State University. Before becoming an outpatient therapist at Pine Rest, she worked as a case manager with a variety of populations including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, mental health needs, and those involved in foster care. She also gained valuable experience working in the field of domestic violence at Safe Haven Ministries and completed her MSW internship at a methadone clinic in Muskegon County. At Pine Rest, Anna primarily works with adults and is a member of both the LGBTQIA+ and DBT-I treatment groups.