Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Sterling Heights, MI

Maria Tovar-Ruiz is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LPC, LAADC) who has over 24 years of experience specializing in helping clients who are suffering from symptoms related to depression, anxiety, life transitions, women’s issues, trauma, relationship concerns, self-esteem, anger management and substance use.

She earned her Master’s degree from Michigan State University and strives to create a relationship where you will feel fully acknowledged, valued, and seen for the unique person that you are. Maria has an eclectic, down to earth and humorous approach to therapy. She values partnering with people from diverse backgrounds who are seeking to increase their life satisfaction and quality of life. 

She believes in helping people identify their own strengths as they learn to trust in their power to have the most fulfilling life that they envision. Maria believes that you are the expert of your own life, while she is a partner that will provide tools, feedback and encouragement as you reach for your goals. 

Marya (Maria) Drygalski is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Addictions Specialist, and Employee Assistance Professional in the state of Michigan who has over 33 years of experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adults, couples, and families seeking help with anxiety/depression, trauma, and life transitions. She is a STARS Provider for Veterans and Military Families and received training through the Ann Arbor Center for the Family. 

Marya completed her Master's Degree at the University of Michigan and can provide biblical, faith-based counseling for those clients desiring to incorporate their Christian faith in the therapeutic process. Marya utilizes evidence-based practices including collaborative, cognitive-behavioral, insight-oriented, mindfulness, solution-focused, systems and supportive therapy approaches in treating the whole person and endeavors to maintain a positive, nurturing environment that is safe and consistent where you are valued, heard, and accepted.

Marya seeks to establish a warm caring relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths in working with you towards meeting your goals for a life worth living.

Jennifer Plesz is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor (CRC, LPC) with over 9 years of professional experience helping clients tp overcome anxiety, family conflict, relationship difficulties, pregnancy and post-partum-related issues, stress, anger issues, ADHD, women's issues, and much more. 

Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Wayne State University, and has several years of experience working with people from all backgrounds. Today Jennifer offers individual, couples, and families who experiencing hard times, or new obstacles. 

Tackle your roadblocks with help from Jennifer; with her professional support and guidance, you can start feeling better, while rebuilding trust, confidence, and contentment. With each session, she'll work to establish a professional, caring relationship between you and herself. 

Darlita Paulding is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 15 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Darlita has assisted Individuals working through anger, depressive symptoms, anxiety, unhealthy relationships, low self-esteem, and stress.

Darlita completed her Bachelor of Arts ( BA) in Psychology at Michigan State University and her Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling at Oakland University. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). Darlita utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and solutions focused therapy to provide the most comprehensive services in a concise, yet warm, empathetic, and supportive environment. 

Darlita seeks to enhance your personal strengths while assisting you in overcoming your challenges. Her goal is that everyone should be able to live their life to their greatest potential. While working with Darlita, you have the potential to transform your life, reconcile relationships, build hope, and enhance your self-esteem through exceptional treatment and services.

Making the decision to seek therapy is incredibly courageous. I have over 19 years experience working as a Social Worker and I am a licensed Master’s Social Worker. I have worked with a diverse population with a variety of diagnoses and situations. However, I believe that each person’s experience is unique and while they may be similar to someone else’s, no two people or situations are the same, therefore neither are the solutions. I provide a non-judgmental , compassionate, therapeutic environment. Working together is essential to creating a good therapeutic relationship and one that is most beneficial. I find that creating meaningful goals with clients based on specific needs really helps this process. Life is not meant to be figured out alone. I feel both honored and privileged to work with my clients helping them to overcome their obstacles and empowering them to do so.

"Taking that first step to reach out for help can be difficult and scary, but I'm glad you did."

Rachel Wolf is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Michigan. She has over a decade of experience working with a widely diverse population of adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, substance abuse/addiction, sexuality, and life transitions. She also has experience working with those in alternative relationship structures (polyamory) and individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. Rachel received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master of Arts in Counseling from Oakland University.

Rachel uses client-centered, strength-based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness-based, and solution-focused approaches, using empathy, creativity, flexibility, and a safe, judgment-free environment. She provides tools for growth, emotional support, feedback, and guidance to help each unique individual develop a more rich, joyful, and meaningful life.

Rachel seeks to provide an environment where you can be your authentic self. You are the expert on your own life, and Rachel seeks to guide you to achieve your dreams and goals. She will meet you at your level, whether this your first time in therapy or you’ve seen a therapist before. If you are ready to start therapy, schedule an appointment with her today!

"I always give this friendly reminder: you cannot get anything from an empty cup. It’s important to invest in yourself and to participate in mental health and wellness."

Carmella is a Licensed Clinical Master Social Worker in the state of Michigan. She has five years of experience in the mental health field. She works with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Carmella specializes in anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, PTSD, trauma, grief, and relationship/family issues. She provides individualized/family therapy and assists clients in working toward achieving their ultimate goals and healing.

Carmella completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Wayne State University. She utilizes multiple treatment approaches, including strengths-based, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, culturally sensitive, and person-centered therapy.

Asking for help can be one of the hardest things a person can do. Carmella understands this and approaches therapy with an open, supportive, and empathetic attitude. Her treatment is tailored to her clients, and she is dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals. If you’re ready to start your healing journey, schedule an appointment with her today!

"Successful counseling is rooted in safety, trust, and a positive perspective. "

Crystal is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years in the mental health field working with clients to improve life satisfaction. She specializes in treating adults and children who are struggling with depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, trauma, abuse, neglect, relationship difficulties, adjustment issues, grief and loss, parenting support, and substance use disorders.

Crystal has a Master’s Degree in Counseling with an advanced specialization in treating children and adolescents from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. She is trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. Crystal has also completed the Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.

Crystal creates a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for her clients. She encourages personal empowerment through the use of strength-based strategies and motivational Interviewing techniques combined with psychoeducation, solution-focused techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness practices to improve adjustment and live a more fulfilling life.