Business Details
Your Trusted Mental Health Therapists in Petoskey
At Real Life Counseling, we specialize in guiding families through challenges related to depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, self-esteem, and grief. Our team of licensed professionals is dedicated to providing confidential, affordable, and high-quality mental health services tailored to the unique needs of children, teens, couples, and adults. With a focus on Northern Michigan, we create personalized treatment plans through comprehensive intake sessions, addressing individual backgrounds, goals, and circumstances. Our approach combines empathy, practical strategies, and evidence-based techniques to foster healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives. We offer both in-person and online counseling, ensuring accessibility for all clients.Our clinicians bring diverse expertise, including trauma-informed care, neurodivergence support, and substance abuse counseling, while emphasizing authenticity and non-judgmental support. Since our founding, we have prioritized community well-being, integrating outdoor activities and holistic wellness into therapeutic practices. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our teams advanced certifications, extensive clinical experience, and ongoing professional development. We believe every individual deserves a compassionate guide on their journey to mental wellness, and we strive to be that trusted partner for lasting positive change.
Services
Child Counseling
Teen Therapy
Couples Counseling
Adult Mental Health
ADHD Support
Grief Counseling
Trauma Recovery
Substance Abuse
Family Therapy
Online Sessions
Highlights and features
- Licensed professionals with decades of combined clinical experience
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs
- Specialized care for trauma, neurodivergence, and substance abuse
- Flexible online and in-person session options
- Holistic approach integrating wellness and outdoor activities
Services
Child Counseling
Our child counseling services address behavioral challenges, anxiety, and emotional development through play-based and age-appropriate techniques. Certified therapists work closely with parents to create supportive environments. Sessions focus on building resilience, communication skills, and emotional regulation for lasting positive outcomes.
Couples Counseling
Couples counseling helps partners improve communication, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust through evidence-based modalities. Our clinicians address intimacy issues, life transitions, and pattern-breaking strategies. Tailored sessions foster mutual understanding and strengthen relational foundations for healthier partnerships.
Trauma Recovery
Specialized trauma recovery programs utilize EMDR and somatic approaches to process adverse experiences. Therapists address PTSD symptoms, complex trauma, and dissociation while prioritizing client safety. Treatment integrates grounding techniques and empowerment strategies for sustainable healing and emotional stability.
Substance Abuse
Comprehensive substance abuse treatment addresses dependency, withdrawal management, and relapse prevention. Certified counselors employ CBT and motivational interviewing techniques. Programs include dual diagnosis support for co-occurring mental health conditions and personalized recovery planning.
Online Sessions
Secure online counseling provides accessible mental health support through HIPAA-compliant platforms. Services include scheduling flexibility, remote check-ins, and digital resources. Virtual sessions maintain the same quality standards as in-person visits while accommodating diverse client needs.
People
Jake Tracy
Licensed Professional Counselor
With 20+ years in education and mental health, Jake specializes in family systems and adolescent development. He earned his master's in 2015 and has served Northern Michigan communities since 2011.
Dr. Brandon Mielke
Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Dr. Mielke holds a Ph.D. in General Psychology and specializes in substance abuse treatment. He has worked in residential rehab centers since 2017 and became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2020.
Melissa Freedman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa combines nursing expertise with mental health training as a PMHNP student. With ER and crisis intervention experience, she focuses on accessible care for Northern Michigan residents through clinical hours at Real Life Counseling.
Lauren Schlueter
Counselor in Training
Lauren specializes in trauma and LGBTQ+ mental health, offering compassion-focused therapy. They are completing their master's degree while providing crisis counseling through The Trevor Project.
Aleena Hellebuyck
Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Aleena brings expertise in juvenile justice and substance use counseling. With experience in nonprofit leadership and private practice, she emphasizes authenticity and wellness in her clinical work.
Questions
What mental health services do you offer?
We provide counseling for depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance abuse, couples therapy, and family counseling for children, teens, and adults.
Are your counselors licensed professionals?
Yes, our team includes licensed counselors, therapists, and certified specialists with advanced degrees and clinical experience in mental health treatment.
Do you offer online therapy sessions?
We provide secure virtual counseling through HIPAA-compliant platforms for clients preferring remote access to mental health services.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call 231.622.5800 to speak with our staff about availability and complete an initial intake process to begin therapy services.
What areas do you serve?
Our primary service area includes Northern Michigan communities, with in-person sessions available in Petoskey and virtual options statewide.
Do you accept insurance?
Payment options and insurance verification details can be discussed during your initial consultation call with our office staff.
