Couples Counseling, Individual Counseling, Family Counseling
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we can all use a guide to help us navigate these tough times. I have been guiding people through difficult passages since 1986 as one of a handful of therapists in West Michigan that is licensed both as a Psychologist and as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of problems, including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and adjustment to major life transitions. I have considerable experience working with divorce and blended family issues.
I have consulted with family-owned businesses and family foundations since 1988 and have taught an undergraduate course on family-owned business at Grand Valley State University.
Being involved in my professional associations has been very important to me. I am a Clinical Member and Approved Supervisor with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and a Member of the American Psychological Association. I also am a past President of the Michigan Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and was twice appointed by the Governor to the Licensing Board for Marriage and Family Therapy, where I served as Chair. In 2003, I received the Professional Practice Award - the highest honor a practitioner can receive from the AAMFT and one that only two other marriage and family therapists have ever been granted.
While my heart is in my clinical work, I also have spent some time in academia, previously directing the Grand Rapids Satellite of a Post-MSW Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy for Wayne State University and teaching graduate level courses at Western Michigan University and the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Psychology in Moscow.
I have a B.A. from the University of St. Thomas, a M.S.W. from Wayne State University and a M.T.S.from St. John’s Provincial Seminary. My Ph.D. is from the Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology Department at Western Michigan University.
My dissertation explored how to increase the effectiveness of marital therapy. I have authored publications and book chapters in many areas in both scholarly and popular publications.
My clients tell me I quickly create a context where they feel safe to explore issues they need to address. While focusing on the problems presented, I explore what needs to change in order to find solutions. I am optimistic and like to find hope and possibilities for change.
Joe: joe@drhorak.com
Stephanie: stephanie@drhorak.com
801 Broadway Ave. NW • Suite 443
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
616.942.2327
Keywords: marriage counseling, depression, anxiety, couples counseling, infidelity, relationship, parenting,