NE Grand Rapids: 5020 E Beltline Ave NE, Suite 202, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Muskegon: 700 Terrace Point Dr, Muskegon, MI 49440 | Alpena: 115 N 1st Ave, Alpena, MI 49707

Welcome! Meet Allison Smith, LPC

Location: Grand Rapids

Specialties: Anxiety, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Depression, Issues, Identity, Trauma, and Adjustment-Related Concerns

Ages: 11+

I understand that seeking therapy can bring up a range of feelings – from excitement and hopefulness to uncertainty and anxiety. Whether you’ve been in therapy before or it’s your first time, I will tailor my approach to fit your specific needs, and provide a space where you can feel safe, heard and accepted. You are the expert in your life and I am here to guide, support and walk with you through your healing and growth. In efforts to make each client as comfortable as possible, I offer both in person and telehealth therapy.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned my Bachelor’s in Psychology from University of Wisconsin Oshkosh and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Michigan University. My passion is in working with adolescents, adults and couples struggling with a variety of challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity, trauma and adjustment- related concerns. To enhance the counseling experience, I take a person-centered approach utilizing various techniques such as strength based therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems and LGBTQ+ affirming therapy.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time reading, watching movies, cooking new foods and spending time with friends and family.

Client Focus

Anxiety

Allison  helps clients manage anxiety with practical tools and a calming approach, focusing on reducing overwhelm and building resilience. 

Peer Relationships

Friendships and social dynamics can be tough. Allison helps you build confidence and healthier connections. 

Relationship Issues

Relationships can feel complicated. Allison helps you navigate conflict, communicate better, and reconnect. 

Accepted Insurances

Commercial: Aetna, ASR, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Molina Marketplace, Optum, Priority Health, UMR, United Healthcare, Tricare, and Blue Care Network. 

Medicare: Aetna Medicare, Priority Health Medicare, Medicare Plus Blue, Traditional Medicare, United Healthcare Medicare

Medicaid: Priority Health Medicaid (no Medicaid as a secondary insurance)

Other: Out of Network, Private Pay (available on a sliding scale if needed)

This is my first time in therapy. What can I expect?

In therapy, you can expect a welcoming and supportive space where we’ll work together to explore your feelings, set personal goals, and develop coping strategies for challenges like anxiety, stress, grief, and more. I’ll tailor our approach using techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness to meet your unique needs, empowering you to make positive changes at your own pace.

How do I get started with therapy?

The first step is to fill out the contact form with your information to the best of your ability. One of our intake specialists will then reach out to answer any questions you may have and schedule a brief phone consultation. During this call, we’ll ask you to share a little about yourself and discuss what you’d like to focus on in therapy!

Do you accept Insurance?

Unity Counseling offers a wide range of accepted insurances such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Optum, Priority Health, UMR, and United Healthcare. Along with accepting some Medicaid and Medicare! Unity Counseling also offers out of network, private pay avalbile on a sliding scale. If you don't see your insurance or have questions, please give us a call (616-439-1866) to learn more!

How often would we meet?

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to therapy. In the beginning, we typically recommend meeting on a weekly basis. This gives us a chance to get to know one another, and as our work together develops, we encourage personal assessments so we can create a schedule that suits your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions!

Whether you’ve worked with a therapist before or this is your first time reaching out, you may have questions about Unity Counseling, Amy, and what our work together might look like. Below are answers to some of the most common questions to help you feel more informed and comfortable as you take this next step.