Pamela Mairs

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.