“My path to becoming a therapist wasn’t the usual straight-to-grad-school route—life took me in some interesting directions first, and I think that’s helped me really understand how messy and unpredictable things can be. What I’ve learned from it all is that life is about values. Knowledge, growth, justice, humor, and creativity are what drew me to this work, and they’re what keep me engaged every day. There’s not much better than that final high-five, hug or handshake when a client completes their goals, and you walk them out of the clinic for the last time.”
Justin’s clients are often pleasantly surprised to find that therapy can be enjoyable—even fun. Not only are laughing, crying, succeeding and struggling all welcome in his office, they are met with a sense of compassion, empathy, humor, and vast knowledge of therapeutic intervention. Justin uses an evidence-based, universal therapy model that incorporates interventions often associated with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Behavioral Activation (BA), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
Working with Justin, clients can expect to deepen their understanding of their life experiences, gain new insights into their challenges, and acquire skills and tools that stay with them long after therapy ends. He helps clients set and reach goals that may feel daunting—or even impossible—at the start of treatment. Sessions with Justin begin with a check-in for clients to share their progress or reflect on recent events. Each session includes a learning component to foster personal growth, and they always end with practical takeaways for clients to work on and discuss in the next session.
Justin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Olivet College and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Western Michigan University. Justin currently serves as the Manager of the Pine Rest Portage Clinic. He is also a presenter for the Employee Assistance Program, delivering a wide range of training for businesses across Michigan.
