Therapy should be a place to feel safe and be your true self. With this in mind, Ian works alongside clients to foster healing, growth and healthy relationships. Sleep problems, irritability and lack of motivation can be signs of anxiety, depression, PTSD or other mental health problems. These symptoms can lead to feeling distant from others and overwhelmed. Having focused support can go a long way to regaining a sense of stability.
Ian’s clinical interests include anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress, depression, grief, and working with couples to restore relationships. Ian is trained in cognitive behavioral therapies, offering practical skills for regaining a sense of peace. He also has experience with emotion-focused, existential and psychodynamic approaches which respect each client’s unique experience.
Ian completed a bachelor of science in both psychology and biblical studies at Columbia International University in Columbia, South Carolina. He then earned a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University. Before joining the Christian Counseling Center, Ian worked with adults with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and other chronic mental illness at Cherry Health’s rehabilitation program.
Originally from Rockford, Michigan, he and his wife now reside in Grand Rapids with their sons, Graydon and Henrik. Ian looks forward to teaching his sons how to play soccer. The Nelsons enjoy exploring the city, cooking good food, adventures outside and meeting new people.
