Meeting You and Your Child
at a Place of Healing
Finding effective yet realistic solutions to mental health challenges can feel impossible at times, but you do not have to face it alone. I am here to listen, guide and help you and your loved ones heal. We will work together to not only find underlying causes but alleviate everyday struggles so that you can finally step out of survival mode and into yourself.
“Thanks to Kelly, my kids have a mom who shows them every single day that they are more than what they accomplish. They have a dad who is learning to validate and hold space for their feelings as well as his own. We are better parents because of you.”
— Rebecca
We’re Maple and Willow
These girls are a regular part of my practice and I absolutely love seeing the ways in which they bond with children and families. I couldn’t be prouder of them both and the healing effect they have on our community.
Both are Bunji (an Aboriginal term for companion) Australian Labradoodles from the phenomenal West Michigan breeder, Bunjidoodles. This family-owned breeder is known for their calm-tempered, well-socialized dogs, making these emotionally in-tuned companion dogs perfect for therapy work.
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In November 2021, Willow joined my practice. She is now a certified therapy dog and has earned her Canine and Urban Good Citizen and various trick certifications. We are both members of West Michigan Therapy Dogs and volunteer with Emmanuel Hospice to provide companionship and emotional relief to patients in life’s final stages.
Willow is a sweet and gentle dog, excellent at providing comfort to those around her. Her calm temperament and extensive training make her uniquely equipped to comfort and support individuals in therapy settings.
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Maple joined our family In March 2023, at 8 months old. She is one of the most loving, goofy dogs you’ll ever meet. Her affectionate nature allows her to be exceptionally highly attuned to humans.
Maple has her Canine Good Citizen certification and will begin therapy dog training in summer 2025 after she delivers her third litter of puppies. Once she earns her therapy dog certification, she will join myself and Willow at Emmanuel Hospice.
Not a dog person?
With or without my dogs, my goal is to provide a comfortable and supportive atmosphere where kids and families can heal, grow, and connect. One or both dogs are routinely in the office most days and are a part of the counseling environment. If you have any questions or concerns about how your child may react to our therapy dogs, please contact me before your initial meeting to discuss.
“Kelly has been a blessing to our family for a few reasons. Her approach is relational for not only us, but our children. We never feel as if our sessions are “clinical.” Instead, with each visit, it seems as if we’re talking to a mentor or friend. Instead of giving us unusable theory, she gives us real-life techniques that we are able to put into practice that day. The results have been amazing; a calmer home and a closer family. We’re so grateful.”
Wherever you are on your mental health journey, you don’t have to walk through it alone.
Let’s chat.
Whether scheduling an appointment or asking a question, I’m happy to connect with you through whichever method you feel most comfortable.
kelly@pediatric-psychologists.com
(616) 272-4183 | fax - (616) 608-0108
2090 Celebration Drive, Suite 212
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Regular Hours
Mon: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm (school year)
Tues: 8:30 am - 9:30 pm
Wed: 8:30 am - 9:30 pm
Thur: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
Fri & Sat by appointment only
Sunday Closed