Child and Family Psychological Services

Hello, my name is Julie Waldron, and I am a therapist at Child & Family Psychological Services in Portage.   

I am pleased to again offer both face-to-face appointments and virtual (telehealth) sessions through a secure platform.Either way, your physical and emotional safety are important to me, so I will work with you to find the mode that best meets your needs and preferences. 

I practice primarily from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) perspective, as well as a client-centered perspective. That means I strive to listen, teach and guide you through evidence-based treatment that involves taking a closer look at how your thoughts, emotions and behaviors work together. I believe that healing and change can occur in the context of a safe, welcoming and trusting relationship.

Since 2000, I have worked extensively with people of all ages who have been impacted by the death of a loved one. Many years of working with bereaved children and teens made me want to learn even better ways to help youth heal after traumatic events, like abuse, neglect, accidents and losses. And so in 2018 I completed a certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This training guides my work with children and teens, and a trauma-informed perspective now guides my work with adults, as well.  

One of the things I love most about my career is the opportunity it gives me to meet the most amazing people! I work with individuals, including children ages 8 and up; teens; and adults. When working with children, I also work with the caregiver or parent as needed. Grief, anxiety, depression, loss, childhood trauma, life changes, relationships, identity and self-esteem are examples of concerns commonly addressed in my office.   

It is a brave step to begin or resume therapy, and if you are ready to work, I am ready to work alongside of you as you progress toward your goals.

Hi. I am Tami Parke. I know it can be a difficult decision to seek help, and I congratulate you on this first step. I have been practicing psychology for over 20 years and love this special work. I consider working as a therapist an honor. Accompanying people on their life’s journey through sometimes difficult and painful experiences is certainly a privilege and a process. I enjoy working with people of all ages, stages and issues. My experience as a Red Cross Disaster Mental Health volunteer after major disasters in our country has given me extensive insight into grief, loss and the tremendous task of rebuilding lives.

My professional areas of interest are grief, trauma, anxiety, depression and life transitions. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities based on the assessment of an individual’s needs.

On a personal level, I love traveling, spending leisure time with my family and pets, tending to my flowers and exercising often.

I often get the question, “How do I know if therapy is right for me?” My answer is simple: Therapy can be helpful for anyone who has something weighing heavy on their heart or their mind (in my opinion that includes all of us). I am a big believer that one of the keys to a successful therapy experience is having the right therapeutic match between client and therapist. Don’t be afraid to “shop around” to make sure that the person you are seeing feels like the best fit for you!

Life is all about relationships. Our interpersonal relationships can be the source of so much joy and also considerable pain. Learning to process and navigate our feelings, even complex ones, can be integral to our ability to cope with our emotions. As humans, we tend to put a great deal of emphasis on achieving happiness. While happiness is a wonderful feeling, it is also important for us to accept a range of emotions which may include excitement, fear, sorrow and contentment. Our most powerful resource lies in our ability to change our lives by changing our attitude and perception. As a therapist, I assist people in learning to transform their lives in a more positive direction.

I tend to utilize an eclectic approach in my work with clients. Cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing and psychodynamic therapy are some of the evidenced based therapy modalities that I use. In addition to my years of experience providing outpatient therapy at Child and Family Psychological Services, I also have 8 years of experience working in a hospital setting on an inpatient psychiatric unit and doing emergency department crisis psychiatric screening.

I currently provide individual therapy for adolescents, young adults and adults presenting with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, behavioral issues, grief, interpersonal relationship difficulties, self-harm, divorce, LGBTQ concerns, holistic health, substance misuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, sexual issues, stress, women’s issues. I have extensive experience with family therapy and group therapy as well, which is offered at times based on need and availability.

I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist who provides treatment to adults, children, adolescents and families. For more than 20 years I have had the pleasure of assisting clients in addressing change and overcoming challenges to create a path to wellness and sustainable growth in their lives. 

I treat a variety of psychological and wellness issues, specializing in the treatment of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, ADHD and behavioral disorders. I utilize evidenced-based practices that include cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based practices. 

I obtained my master’s degree in Counseling Education and Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University. Undergraduate studies were completed with Ferris State University and Western Michigan University. My internship experience was completed with the Psychiatry Department at Ascension Borgess Hospital/Behavioral Medicine Services.

My clinical experiences have included treating children in a child autism program at Western Michigan University, adjunct instructor with Michigan State University/Kalamazoo Center for Medical Studies Psychiatry Department, various outpatient settings, residential treatment settings, St. Joseph County Community Mental Health and emergency services at Ascension Borgess Hospital.

I have retained membership with the following organizations:

• American Psychological Association
• Michigan Psychological Association
• Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies
• Alzheimer’s Association of Southwest Michigan
• Michigan Association for Children with Emotional Disorders

Greetings! I am Pamela Mairs. I have been a Limited Licensed Psychologist since 1991, working with children and adults in both the private and public sectors. While I have experience with both severe and persistent mental illness, developmental disabilities and severe emotional disturbance in children, these days I tend to focus more on adults who are struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma and chronic illness management. One of my specialty interest areas is working with the LGBTQA population with both youth and adults. I am a member of a statewide group that meets monthly regarding LGBTQA concerns that is hosted by NASW Michigan. 

One of my first jobs was working on an inpatient psychiatric unit, and over the course of time I have also worked in schools, courts and private outpatient settings. I am a qualified expert witness in circuit court in several counties and have also taught a handful of community college courses. 

My approach to therapy is relationship-oriented. I do not have a prescribed way that I expect people to be while in therapy nor do I believe in the one-size-fits-all approach. Some individuals want a few sessions to work on a specific problem while other individuals are hoping to have a steady person in their life over time that they can come to when they feel the need to reach out. While I love to hear the rich history that people tell about their lives, feeling better often involves changes in the way we think and feel about our here-and-now experience. This includes resolving trauma when it is present. Social context and culture are also factors that influence the way I see the world and the work I do. 

Like you, my life has had its ups and downs. I have a few interests and hobbies that help keep me on a solid path. These include gardening, golf, travel, reading, long walks, baking and taking college courses.  We just purchased a very old sailboat and I am excited to learn to sail. In the past I rode horses, water skied, backpacked and flew small aircraft. Back surgery changed some of my ability to engage in active sports, but I have found that even in adversity we can make our lives into almost anything we want them to be. At home you will probably find me spending time with Grady, my African Grey, or Phoebe, our standard poodle. They occasionally accompany me to the office as well. 

Hi, I’m Emily Lindsay. I view my work as a therapist to be an absolute privilege and honor. I strive to create a safe, comfortable, compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere in which clients can feel empowered to work towards achieving the positive changes they seek in their lives. In my work with a variety of clients, my focus is on getting to know my clients, helping them set achievable and realistic goals and walking side by side with them on their journey by creating a strong therapeutic alliance. I keep sessions fun and entertaining by utilizing creative interventions that allow us to continue making strides towards achieving the desired areas of interpersonal growth.

My therapeutic approach derives from a relational perspective, and I utilize cognitive behavioral, person-centered and holistic health interventions in our sessions. I use a strengths-based approach to give my clients insight into their self-talk, feelings and behaviors. This insight can shift self-perception, empower and strengthen an individual’s capacity to thrive as they learn more about themselves and engage in personal growth. I emphasize the importance of highlighting and building upon the skills that my clients already possess to bring about desired change in their lives and environment. My belief is that my clients walk through my door already possessing the necessary skills within themselves to effect change; I help the process by providing techniques, strategies and support to help them reach their fullest potential and achieve the goals they have set for themselves. I view our therapy sessions as a collective effort and our interactions as a partnership between equals.

My formal education includes a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Western Michigan University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology and anthropology/sociology from Kalamazoo College. My diverse work, education and training experiences have provided the opportunity to work with adults and adolescents in individual and group therapeutic settings. Issues in which I have special knowledge include, but are not limited to, adjusting to life changes and transitionary periods, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, sexual orientation and identity, women’s issues, conflict resolution, self-esteem issues, academic difficulties, social skill development, relationship dynamics and sports performance.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, playing or watching just about any sport, coaching basketball, traveling, swimming in my pool, and going to professional and collegiate sporting events. Come try out a session with me and let’s get to work!

There are parts of you that are natural… your authentic self. When you begin to move closer to those parts of yourself, you know it. Kind of like coming home to a warm cup of tea and a cozy fire that you’ve missed. It feels like the place you’ve always known, but had not realized how much you’ve missed it while you were gone. Each of us have become experts at managing what the world has to offer us with the tools we have, but often find that we are longing for more tools… a better compass perhaps? You have likely learned to be resourceful in amazing ways that maybe you didn’t know. These are the hidden tools that you did not even know you were carrying.

Well, you’re looking for new tools and might be curious about the tools you are overlooking as well. That is where our journey begins… together. Welcome.

Welcome to a space where we can begin to slow down and listen. I believe in this space. I believe that there are many paths that lead you back to those authentic parts of yourself. Those parts that may have had to take a backseat due to an unpredictable world. Know they are still there, just quietly in the background.

I hope that, together, we can begin to listen to that wisdom that is inside you. The wisdom of your body. It holds the narrative of all your lived experiences- your joys, your struggles, your pain, your dreams… fulfilled and yet to be. Come in, slow down, and learn to listen to your body’s narrative.

I have been honored to work with individuals through Child and Family Psychological services since 2013, as a part of my professional journey that began following graduation from Western Michigan University in Counseling Psychology in 2000. There is no actual fireplace, but there is plenty of tea and a cozy blanket ready.

When not in therapy, you will likely find me spending time with my family, cats and dog, hiking, walking, swimming, camping, traveling and reading. If it’s a really great day, there will be hammocking with a good book and a travel mug o’ tea.

I primarily work with individuals who are later adolescents (15 to 18), Emerging Adults (19 to 28), and Young to Middle Adults (29 to 61). Sometimes there are exceptions to this, so if you fall outside this range, please contact me and we can see if what I have to offer lines up with what you are seeking.

Hello! My name is Jordan Horan, and I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist specializing in psychological evaluations. In 2016, I earned my master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University and have since had the opportunity to work with a variety of people from children and families to older adults. Currently, I conduct psychological evaluations for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other mental health concerns with children and adults.

My previous experience includes autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnostic evaluations, as well as counseling related to ASD, substance abuse, sexual offending, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression. I have also worked with adolescent and adult males with substance abuse and criminal behavior problems in correctional, residential and outpatient settings.

 I believe on our journey throughout life, we experience many joys such as our relationships. With these joys of life also come difficulties and barriers that we may need assistance learning to manage and overcome so that we can live according to our values. In my work conducting psychological evaluations, I aim to foster a collaborative relationship between you and/or your child and myself. Throughout our work together, it is important to me that you feel heard and understood. We will work together to explore your current concerns and understand the factors influencing these concerns, and I will provide recommendations to help you overcome these difficulties.

As part of a high-quality psychological evaluation, we will meet for at least three sessions. The first session includes a diagnostic interview, where we will review important areas related to your development and life, in addition to your current concerns. In the second session, you will take various tests and fill out questionnaires. Finally, the third session is a feedback session where we will meet to review the results of the evaluation and discuss relevant recommendations. You will be provided with a written copy of your evaluation.

In addition to my clinical work, I served as an adjunct instructor at Ferris State University from 2017 until 2021 teaching a variety of courses from introduction to abnormal psychology. Additionally, I served as a co-faculty advisor for undergraduate research, Political Engagement Project (PEP) Advisory Board Member, and Shoah Genocide Education Faculty Committee Member. For my work in and outside of the classroom, I was honored with the 2020 Non-Tenure Track Teaching Excellence Award.

My professional affiliations include the Association of Contextual and Behavioral Sciences, the Michigan Psychological Association and the Midwestern Psychological Association.

Outside of the clinic, I love spending time with my friends and family, reading, listening to music, playing my guitar and singing.

My name is Shannon Hilton-Smith. I believe in creating, nurturing and maintaining an environment that facilitates personal growth and empowerment for all of my clients. I view my work as helping others along their journeys in hope, healing and opportunities.

I have two beautiful grown children and a darling bulldog named Olive. I have been married to my husband for 28 years, together for 35 years. I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends, as well as traveling. I also enjoy outdoor activities such as tennis, yoga, pilates, kayaking and meditation.

I have worked in a therapeutic setting since 1994. Early on in my career, I worked in child abuse and then with adolescent sexual offenders. I spent several years working at hospitals in both Medical Social Work on the floors and in the Emergency Room. I have been working in a private practice setting since 2007. Having a significant work history prior to being in a private practice has allowed me to view my clients and their various concerns with a strong working knowledge utilizing several diversified techniques.

Sometimes life becomes overwhelming and can seem difficult to manage. My role as a therapist is to help my clients through these difficult times with guidance and support. If you are curious about hypnosis, please call the office and I would enjoy telling you about it. It’s very easy, and it’s very powerful. The majority of people can be hypnotized. Call today to schedule a consultation. 

As a clinical psychologist, I have been supporting youth, adults and families in improving their mental health and daily functioning for over 8 years. My therapeutic approach incorporates evidence-based therapies along with my clients’ input to guide sessions and interventions. These therapy sessions are so valuable in exploring thought and behavioral patterns, identifying and communicating feelings and working toward developing healthy perspectives and coping strategies for improved emotional and social health and functioning.

My diverse experiences have provided me the opportunity to work with a wide variety of children, adults and families. Examples of issues of which I have knowledge in include, but are not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, family issues, anger management, parenting, attachment, substance use issues and school concerns.

As a therapist, I am honored to offer you a safe and nurturing space and to walk alongside you on your journey of transformation and healing. You will always be met with support, understanding and authentic honesty.

Thank you for reviewing my profile. I have been practicing as a psychologist and a professional counselor for more than 35 years. My clinical approach is collaborative and relational in style. It is modeled after my own experiences as a client that allowed me to feel so passionate about counseling as a life-changing process.

The video on this page will give you a better understanding of how I view counseling and my philosophy in developing Child & Family Psychological Services, which I founded in 1989.

Because my administrative responsibilities limit the amount of time I can devote to clinical work, I generally am unable to accommodate new clients. If you are a potential new client or a returning client, however, I would be happy to help you find another therapist who can be a good fit for you.

On a personal note, I enjoy traveling, participating in sports, following my New York sports teams, boating on Lake Michigan and spending time with my family. I feel very blessed to have had the chance to help people deal with their unique challenges over the years. I still find it a privilege to be invited into my clients’ lives and use all I have learned through my training and experience to help my clients with the issues that made them seek my services.