Hi, I’m Jill Schmidt, LMSW
Therapist | Building Confidence + Coping Skills | Encouraging and Honest
Let’s take it one step at a time—together.
About Jill
I believe in the power of collaboration, affirmation, and building trust in the therapy process. It's completely normal to experience difficult emotions—and sometimes we just need permission to not be okay. When we start to explore the root causes of what’s weighing us down, we begin to take our power back.
As a West Michigan therapist, I work from a strengths-based perspective to help clients tap into their resilience. I walk alongside you through the ups and downs, encouraging you to take steps—big or small—toward growth, even when it feels uncomfortable. That discomfort is often where meaningful change begins.
I know therapy can feel vulnerable and uncertain, especially at first. That’s why I put a strong emphasis on building trust, creating a space where you feel safe to show up honestly, and honoring your pace while gently challenging you to lean into what’s possible. My hope is that through this process, you can eventually look back and say, “I did it.”
What It's Like to Work With Me
Clients often describe me as supportive, down-to-earth, and direct in a compassionate way. I create a space where you can be honest—especially when things feel messy or overwhelming—and I’ll meet you there with empathy and encouragement.
Our work will move at your pace, but I’ll also gently challenge you when needed, especially if it means building confidence or trying something new. Therapy with me is a collaborative process where your voice matters, and your growth is celebrated. Whether you're navigating trauma, anxiety, or just trying to feel more like yourself again, I’m here to walk alongside you as you take those steps.
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“Be patient with yourself. Therapy is a journey and includes some highs and lows during the process. Also, therapy is for you and you are the ultimate decision-maker. Don't be afraid to speak up about your needs or if something doesn't feel right.”
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I specialize in supporting teens and young adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life stressors. I have a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach that helps clients build emotional resilience, increase self-awareness, and develop healthy coping strategies. Whether you're working through family conflict, low self-esteem, or relationship struggles, I’ll support you in creating meaningful, lasting change.
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Aetna, BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, and United Healthcare.
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Self-esteem and confidence
Teen and young adult support
Stress and emotional regulation
LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy
Common Issues I Work With
Feeling overwhelmed or emotionally stuck
Self-harming behaviors
Family conflict and relationship strain
Behavioral challenges in teens
Low self-worth and negative self-talk
Difficulty coping with life transitions
Unresolved trauma and past experiences
Communication and boundary setting
Ready to take the next step?
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Ready to take the next step? 〰️
It’s okay to feel unsure—therapy can start with just one conversation.