Alexis at Giesken Counseling Services knows that therapy isn’t just about "fixing problems", it’s a vital space for self-exploration and navigating the wild ride of being human. A Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW), Alexis brings a wealth of experience from her time in Boston, where she earned her Psychology degree from Suffolk University and her Master of Social Work from Simmons University.

While she’s an expert in helping people navigate the heavy lifting of anxiety and depression, her real passion is meeting you exactly where you are. Alexis’s approach is "strengths-based," which means she’s not just looking at what’s wrong; she’s helping you discover the tools and resilience you already have inside you. 

David, a pre-licensed professional counselor/therapist at Giesken Counseling Services, knows that life doesn’t come with a manual, especially when you're navigating big transitions, identity, or those "Who am I even?" existential moments. A graduate of Oakland University with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, David specializes in helping both teens and adults navigate the choppy waters of anxiety, depression, and LGBTQIA+ challenges.

While he is an expert in tools like CBT and DBT, David’s real passion is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Translation? He doesn’t just want to help you "fix" your feelings; he wants to help you accept the hard stuff so you can get back to doing what actually matters to you. Described as a collaborative and privileged listener, David believes your story is unique, and your growth should be, too. 

Delaney at Giesken Counseling Services knows that navigating the pressures of high school, from social scenes to the choices involving substances, can feel like walking a tightrope. A Master of Social Work graduate from Oakland University (and a Grand Valley Laker!), Delaney is here to help you set your own limits before life sets them for you.

On the podcast, she’s the go-to expert for the "Substances, Choices, and Limits" episodes. She doesn't do boring lectures; instead, she uses her certifications in Trauma-Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing to help you understand why we make the choices we do. Whether she’s using talk therapy, art, or even play-based techniques, Delaney’s goal is to empower you to understand your own story and build a lifestyle you’re actually proud of.

(Lizzie in our podcast) Elizabeth offers therapy for children ages 5- 12, and adults aged 65+ who may be struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, family conflict, or ADHD. *Additional Languages Spoken: French & Russian
Giesken Counseling Services Locations:
*Grand Blanc, MI: Online Only
*Clarkston, MI: Online Only
Rochester Hills, MI: In-person & Online

Since he was a kid, Jason, a limited licensed psychologist at Giesken Counseling Services, has always had a knack for helping others navigate their toughest moments. After earning his Master’s in Clinical Psychology and spending years working with everyone from kids to adults facing complex challenges, he’s seen it all, from the "invisible" struggles of anxiety and depression to the everyday stress of school and relationships.

Whether he was leading therapy groups in Flint or managing a clinical office, Jason’s goal has stayed the same: making mental health support feel human, not like a clinical experiment. Described as outgoing and incredibly easy to talk to, he doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all advice. Instead, he’s here to help you build a mental health toolkit that actually fits your unique life. 

Lauren Ruben was the Clinic Director at Ellie Mental Health in Clarkston at the time of recording and is now Clinic Director of Behavioral Health Services at Clarkston Medical Group. She has been a counselor for almost 10 years, specializing in Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma-and-Stressor-Related Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and grief and loss. Lauren enjoys working with teens and adults utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Person Centered, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Lauren received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Michigan State University and her Master of Science in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Illinois Institute of Technology. 

Max works with teens, young adults, and adults at Giesken Counseling Services in Clarkston, Rochester Hills, Flint, and Grand Blanc. Max specializes in anxiety, autism, coping skills, depression, self-esteem, & more. As a Counseling Intern and current graduate student at Oakland University, he is pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Adrian College.

Raeleen is a therapist at Ellie Mental Health in Clarkston. Authenticity is at the center of Raeleen’s approach to therapy with struggling kids, teens, emerging adults, and families. With an education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Synergetic Play Therapy, Raeleen integrates nervous system regulation, interpersonal neurobiology, attachment, mindfulness, along with the developmentally appropriate therapeutic powers of play into her sessions. This allows her clients to complete therapy feeling empowered, motivated, hopeful, and filled with specific tools to continue to succeed well after therapy is concluded.

Samantha is a Masters Limited Psychologist at Ellie Mental Health in Clarkston. She received her education at Southern New Hampshire University, specializing in child and adolescent development and at Michigan School of Psychology. She has been working with children, teens, and families for over 10 years focusing on trauma, anxiety, and family relationships. In therapy with Samantha, she provides a space for individuals to learn about who they are, how they connect to others, and where they fit into the world. Samantha’s approach to therapy is similar to gathering around a table with loved ones – we talk about our highs, our lows, and how life goes.

Trish Marie Brown is a therapist at Ellie Mental Health in Clarkston. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor who attended Michigan State University and Oakland University and has 15+ years of professional experience. Trish provides a safe, supportive, and individualized therapeutic experience, treating Clients ages 6-75. Trish works with Clients seeking support for Depression, Anxiety; ADHD; life change/transition; trauma; identity exploration; self-worth; or stressors related to work, school, family, and relationships. Trish provides client centered therapy for individuals, couples, and groups, drawing from therapeutic modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, Strength Based Counseling, Impact Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

https://elliementalhealth.com/locations/clarkston-mi/

  Produced by the Clarkston Area Youth Assistance Family Education Committee, this podcast connects local families with practical advice and resources. A team of dedicated volunteers curates topics and invites community experts, service providers, and leaders to share insights on family-focused issues. Each bi-monthly episode offers expert interviews, resource highlights, and actionable tips for parents, caregivers, educators, and community members. We encourage community input—suggest topics, share stories, or volunteer as a guest to help shape future episodes.