Counselors
Tracey L. Wicks, M.A., LPC
Educated at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, I hold a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, focusing extensively on Women's Ministry. As one of the dedicated mental health counselors in Kalamazoo, I am a licensed professional counselor with experience in working with individuals, couples, and groups suffering from anger, addiction, anxiety, and depression. My experience has aided me in identifying the unique needs of men and women who seek conflict resolution and desire a voice to express themselves with confidence in the world we live in today. I bring with me over 3,000 hours of counseling experience to the field and welcome any clients who are suffering from PTSD, trauma, PPD, anxiety, depression, and addictions.
I graduated from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in trauma counseling. As a licensed mental health counselor in Kalamazoo, I have experience working with various clients as we explore their mental, emotional, and spiritual concerns. I am committed to providing a safe and empathic space for you to share your stories. My goal is to help equip you with the skills and resources you may need, whether addressing depression, anxiety, family/relational conflict, grief, trauma, or other life concerns. We can work together toward your desired outcome and overcome challenges along the way.
Kendra Jackson, PH.D., LSC, LPC, CFLE, NCC
She is currently an Assistant Professor of Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling and serves as a faculty representative for the Professional Practice Committee at Grand Canyon University. Having completed her graduate studies at Ohio University, she earned a Master of Education in Counseling with two specializations: clinical mental health and school counseling. In 2017, she further achieved a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Ohio University. As a leading figure among mental health therapists in Kalamazoo, she is deeply committed to teaching and training the next generation of counselors to provide effective mental health services to individuals and families. Her passion is evident in her care for the mental, spiritual, and emotional well-being of clients. In her clinical work, she fosters an environment conducive to client exploration, growth, and positive transformation. She is determined to empower her clients, providing them with resources to tackle challenges like depression, anxiety, spiritual concerns, academic issues, and more, enabling them to walk in their purpose, achieve wellness, and actualize their best selves.
Staff
My name is Kelly Harris and I am originally from the Chicagoland area. I graduated from Hope College with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and Psychology and I am currently pursuing my Master of Social Work degree through Grand Valley State University. Currently, I work at Bethany Christian Services as a program supervisor for the Transitional Living Center, a residential program for refugee teen boys. I am passionate about my work in the refugee community and have a vast knowledge of trauma-informed interventions and community living. I am eager to learn more about the mental health field and use the trauma-informed approach in a new setting. Outside of work, I love to be active and have fallen into a second job working at an indoor cycle studio called Lunar Cycle in Grand Rapids. I look forward to working with clients on their desired goals and learning from them as experts in their own life.
I am a Graduate student at Grand Valley State University, working towards my Master of Social Work degree. I have experience working with individuals with a substance use disorder as I was previously an Addiction Counselor support staff. While working in counseling my goal is to provide a welcoming environment and a safe place for my clients, and to advocate for their mental health needs, as well as helping them to address barriers that have arised in their life.
Catherine Baeza, LPC Intern
My name is Cat Baeza; I am currently a Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate student at Western Michigan University. I am working towards a clinical addictions specialization certificate through WMU’S Specialty Program in Alcohol and Drug Abuse, as addictions and trauma care are some of my therapeutic interests. I am incredibly passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and adults. My goal throughout the counseling process is to embolden my clients to live authentically and pursue what brings them joy. I currently work with local schools in the Kalamazoo area to assist students with tutoring opportunities, as well as choral conduct at a church in the Portage area. When I am not working I love taking my dog Tofu for walks, taking care of my houseplants, and working on my various needlepoint projects. I am so blessed to have the opportunity to hear client’s stories and support them as they find their voice and footing in the world.
I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Spring Arbor University. I earned an Associate of Arts degree from Kalamazoo Valley Communication College and Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies, with a minor in Technical Writing, from Western Michigan University (WMU).
I am a graduate student pursuing my degree in the Master of Social Work program at Grand Valley State University. I have previous experience as an intern on the adult case management team at a community mental health center called HealthWest. Working on the case management team, I supported adults who struggle with mental illness and assisted clients to reach their addressed goals and needs. I evaluated assessments and collaborated with clients to create a treatment plan focused on improving their mental health and overall well-being.
My name is Morgan Peterson, and I am a graduate student at Western Michigan University. I am in the Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling program and am pursuing licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist. While I currently reside in Kalamazoo, I’m originally from Indiana. I spent my summers working at a summer camp with students from all around the world, and I graduated from Butler University with a degree in Strategic Communication and Psychology. After graduating, I moved to Michigan and began working at Family & Children Services in the foster care department. My passion for helping couples and families has only grown as I increasingly recognize the importance of relationships in our lives and the impact they can have on our mental wellbeing. In my free time, I enjoy exploring Michigan’s nature with my dog, Olive. I also love to read, knit, and take the occasional road trip!
My name is Luke Leppanen and I am excited to join the team at Wicks Therapy PLLC. I am currently attending my second semester at Western Michigan University, and I am enrolled in the Counseling Education and Counseling Psychology master’s program. Once I receive my master’s degree, my aim is to pursue my doctorate in either Clinical or Counseling Psychology. I am originally from the Upper Peninsula and received my bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University and lived in Green Bay for a year before moving to Kalamazoo. I love helping people and have worked with children with behavioral issues and adults with an array of mental health diagnoses to develop practical skills so that they are able to live independently in their communities. A fun fact about me is that I am currently learning the Finnish language and am semi-fluent in it. I look forward to meeting everyone and working at Wicks Therapy
My name is Ja’Nae Jones, and I am a clinical mental health counseling student at Western Michigan University. I am also working towards a holistic and contemplative health care certificate through Western’s Holistic Health program. I am passionate about working with minorities to change the stigma surrounding mental health. Additionally, I hope to help people incorporate self-care into their lives while effectively managing their mental health
Hello all! My name is Navia Walker, and I am currently in my third and final year of the Marriage, Couple, and Family counseling program at Western Michigan University. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Family Studies with a minor in Psychology. I seek to create a warm and welcoming environment that allows my clients to be vulnerable and authentic.
My name is Loretta Johnson and I am a graduate student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of the Cumberlands. An elementary and special education teacher for the last twenty-five years, I am excited to pursue a new calling working with individuals, both young and mature in the community. I am passionate about a life of authenticity, integrity, and service while guiding, healing, teaching, and learning in all areas of life. I enjoy reading, nature, traveling and most of all time with my husband and adult daughter (when she visits). I look forward to connecting with you on this sometimes difficult but beautifully rewarding journey!
Empowering Healing With Trusted Mental Health Counselors in Kalamazoo
- At Wicks Therapy, we pride ourselves in offering unparalleled mental health services in the heart of Kalamazoo. Our team comprises some of the finest mental health counselors Kalamazoo has to offer. With their collective expertise, we provide a nurturing environment where clients can confidently embark on their healing journey.
- Beyond individual therapy sessions, we understand the significance of community involvement. Our commitment extends to collaborating with other healthcare professionals and institutions, making us a recognized name among licensed mental health counselor Kalamazoo networks.
Diverse Therapeutic Approaches
We pride ourselves on our diverse range of specialties, and this has earned us a reputation as expert mental health therapists in Kalamazoo. Our holistic approach ensures that every client receives care tailored to their unique needs and circumstances.
Each therapist at Wicks Therapy brings a unique perspective and skill set to the table. Whether you're seeking trauma therapy, conflict resolution, addiction counseling, or general mental health guidance, our team is equipped to assist.
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