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Offered in-person & online

Our therapists offer blended family therapy in Grand Rapids, MI

Get in-person or online care, and cover the majority of the costs with your insurance.

All Grand Rapids Charter Township services

Connect with a therapist, psychiatrist or counselor near you
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686,000 people sought help with Thriveworks in the last year

Discover how starting blended family counseling can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a provider as soon as this week

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +24 more
Narcissism, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, +10 more

As a professional who has had to ask for help before, I know this process can be intimidating and difficult, but let me reassure you that seeking assi... As a professional who has had to ask for help before, I know this process can be intimidating and difficult, but let me reassure you that seeking assistance is a courageous step towards personal growth and emotional well-being. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +20 more
Military / Veteran, Chronic Illness, Medical / Health Issues, Self Harm, Domestic Abuse, +22 more

I am a white woman with nearly four years of experience working with many different populations and in various fields within social work.

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +18 more
Domestic Abuse, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, Stress, +10 more

As an older woman who has been affected by much of what life has to offer, I can empathize with many areas of trauma and joy and learning how to heal ... As an older woman who has been affected by much of what life has to offer, I can empathize with many areas of trauma and joy and learning how to heal from and celebrate those events. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +16 more
Military / Veteran, Chronic Illness, Medical / Health Issues, Self Harm, Domestic Abuse, +23 more

I have a wide range of experience to help me understand the individual needs a person may have.

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +23 more
Medical / Health Issues, Self Harm, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, +14 more

I am dedicated to supporting you in beginning your journey no matter where we start.

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +23 more
Military / Veteran, Chronic Illness, Medical / Health Issues, Self Harm, Behavioral Issues, +18 more

I understand what overcoming is...I had to overcome childhood trauma. I've been there. Healing from trauma is not easy, but you're worth the time and ... I understand what overcoming is...I had to overcome childhood trauma. I've been there. Healing from trauma is not easy, but you're worth the time and the effort. You have this one life, and it's important that you are able to show up for it in a way that you can feel good about, be at peace about, and be proud of. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +21 more
Self Harm, Domestic Abuse, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, +18 more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +19 more
Domestic Abuse, Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Self Esteem, +11 more

As a woman who is married, has kids, and has been working in mental health for a few years, I understand the impact of stress, depression, and trauma ... As a woman who is married, has kids, and has been working in mental health for a few years, I understand the impact of stress, depression, and trauma and the affect they have on everyday life. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, ASR, Blue Care Network of Michigan, +22 more
Coping Skills, Stress, Sleep / Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression, +1 more

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my role is multifaceted. I am a mental health advocate, educator, and clinician.

Starting Blended family counseling

What is Blended family counseling?

Blended family counseling from our therapists at Thriveworks in Grand Rapids Charter Township, MI helps families who have come together through marriage work through changes, accept differences, ease tension, and form bonds. It enables parents to set boundaries and expectations around finances, parenting, and other areas. In addition, it offers all family members a safe space to voice their thoughts and feelings.

How does Blended family counseling work?

Blended family counseling will likely involve attending sessions as a group, but it might also involve individual sessions with each family member. It works by encouraging the group to share any emotions or concerns or challenges they might be experiencing, as relates to the family, and then offering tailored solutions.

Is Blended family counseling conducted in person or online?

Blended family counseling at Thriveworks in Grand Rapids Charter Township, MI is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does Blended family counseling last?

Blended family counseling from one of our providers at Thriveworks in Grand Rapids Charter Township, MI be short- or long-term, lasting for weeks, months, or years. The length is dependent on the family's areas of concerns, whether they're more immediate or they're more complex. Together with your therapist, you can determine how long you should plan on attending therapy for best results.

Need more help deciding?

Mike and Carol were meant to be. He had three boys. She had three girls. Theirs was a marriage that aligned perfectly. The Brady bunch was America’s first and iconic blended family… “they knew that it was much more than a hunch; That this group must somehow form a family. That’s the way we all became the Brady bunch.” The Bradys had their fair-share of challenges. The show tackled many common problems that can occur in step families: Greg and Marcia’s rivalry to be the boss, and the children’s acceptance of a new parent. At one point, Mrs. Brady reminds her children that the only steps in the home led to the second floor. Mike and Carol did their best to offer consistently, love, and acceptance to their children. While it was not always easy, the Bradys found their way, as many families do. Other blended families do not have the luxury of having their problems wrapped up in a 30-minute TV episode, but there are many resources available to blended families, to help them live in one, big, happy home. Many go to counseling for blended families as they bring two homes together.

“Live one day at a time (or one moment if you have to).
Blend little by little and celebrate even the smallest breakthrough.”
—Dani Parker-Kimbrough, mom and stepmom

With any challenge, there is also opportunity, and blending a family is no different. With two families coming together, the struggles and drama may double, but that means the love and connection may double too. Often, blended homes are places where adults and children learn resiliency, deep love, and a strong sense of self. Building a loving and accepting home is something most blended families want, but they may not know how to navigate all the roadblocks in their way. Skilled counselors can often guide the process with blended family therapy.

If you and your partner are in the process of bringing two families together under one roof, know that it is normal to experience challenges. Help is available. The therapists at Thriveworks Grand Rapids have worked with a number of families who are learning how to blend well.

Blending Two Families

Whether they are called blended families or step families, the concept is the same: two families are learning how to become one. There is no mold for this process or limit to the shape blended families can take. Here is a small sample of different types of blended families:

  • A widowed parent who has remarried. The new spouse does not have children of their own but is working toward actively parenting the children.
  • A re-coupled parent with a new partner who lives with the family but is not actively parenting the children.
  • Divorced parents who have set up separate living situations but are actively involved parents. They may or may not be dating again.
  • Divorcees who have remarried and both bring children to the family.

When The Brady Bunch first aired, it was 1969 and the divorce rate for first marriage was 30 percent. The divorce rate for first time marriages is now 40 percent, and even higher for second and third marriages. More and more families are blended every day. It makes sense that approximately half of all of America’s children, ages 13 and under, live in a step family. Most blended families bump up against similar road blocks.

Children in a Blended Family
Any change in a child’s life can induce stress, even adjustments that will ultimately be positive for them. When kids transition into a blended family, they may have to make significant adjustments to their schedule and their relationships. They may have to go from being the oldest to a middle child. They may no longer be the baby of the family. They may have to adjust to a new parenting style. All the while, children are often processing difficult emotions. They may be grieving their parents’ divorce or break-up. They may be grieving a parent’s death. If both biological parents are involved in their lives, kids may be experiencing the frustration of living in two homes with two different expectations. These difficult emotions can lead to behavioral challenges before children learn how to process them in a healthy way.

Adults in a Blended Family
When a couple decides to blend their family together, they are often seeking to establish their own relationship as well as their family’s. Just one of these tasks is challenging in and of itself. The couple has a lot of decisions to make as they begin the process of blending. They will need to define their roles as parents: will both be parenting? If so, what will their unique style be? If not, what will the new partner’s role be? Along with establishing their own home, they may also have to navigate how their ex-spouse parents.

Therapy for Blended Families at Thriveworks Grand Rapids: Setting Up an Appointment

If you are bringing two families together as one, know that there is help available. The challenges you are experiencing may also be opportunities to bond as a family. The therapists at Thriveworks Grand Rapids have helped many families come together as one. When you call our office, one of our scheduling specialists will help you set up an appointment. New clients often meet with their therapist within 24 hours. Weekend and evening sessions are offered as well. Let’s work together.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our Grand Rapids Charter Township therapists and counselors accept 27 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • ASR

  • Blue Care Network of Michigan

  • Blue Care Network of Michigan Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan | BCBS PPO

  • Carelon

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

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Self-pay costs at Grand Rapids Charter Township
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

4.9 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
I am loving Thriveworks not only for the convenience of virtual appointments, but this is the first place I’ve tried that has actually helped. My therapist is incredibly kind and helpful and is amazing at helping me with any issues I’m struggling with. They paired me with a therapist that is experienced in the specific areas I needed help with, and it has been wonderful. I would absolutely recommend Thriveworks!
Read more I am loving Thriveworks not only for the convenience of virtual appointments, but this is the first place I’ve tried that has actually helped. My therapist is incredibly kind and helpful and is amazing at helping me with any issues I’m struggling with. They paired me with a therapist that is experienced in the specific areas I needed help with, and it has been wonderful. I would absolutely recommend Thriveworks!
Kelly Jan 2024
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I have worked with Pamela Rybka LPC both personally and professionally. I have found her compassion and expertise invaluable. She has helped with me issues related to aging and grief and loss. If you need someone to help you on life's journey, contact her. Her kindness and gentle confrontation will help you be the best person you can be.
Read more I have worked with Pamela Rybka LPC both personally and professionally. I have found her compassion and expertise invaluable. She has helped with me issues related to aging and grief and loss. If you need someone to help you on life's journey, contact her. Her kindness and gentle confrontation will help you be the best person you can be.
Grand Rapids Jul 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Emily Warning is an amazing therapist. She is very professional and knows how to listen and respond to my concerns. She really makes me feel heard. Thank you Emily, you are great!
Read more Emily Warning is an amazing therapist. She is very professional and knows how to listen and respond to my concerns. She really makes me feel heard. Thank you Emily, you are great!
Grand Rapids May 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Cassie personally and professionally for over 10 years. She is an extremely kind and compassionate person. She is an excellent listener, she is very thoughtful, organized and you can tell she genuinely cares about her clients and wants to help. She’s an excellent communicator and I would highly recommend her as a counselor any day!
Read more I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Cassie personally and professionally for over 10 years. She is an extremely kind and compassionate person. She is an excellent listener, she is very thoughtful, organized and you can tell she genuinely cares about her clients and wants to help. She’s an excellent communicator and I would highly recommend her as a counselor any day!
Grand Rapids Mar 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Angel was the sweetest person! I’m so glad I chose this place for help! I felt like a crazy person at first but she made me feel like I was just normal and just going through a lot! I really appreciate angel!
Read more Angel was the sweetest person! I’m so glad I chose this place for help! I felt like a crazy person at first but she made me feel like I was just normal and just going through a lot! I really appreciate angel!
Grand Rapids Jan 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Thriveworks is a blessing. I got an appointment with a counselor within a week. Margaret Rose was wonderful. She was kind and insightful and I felt safe with her. I highly recommend Thriveworks Grand Rapids
Read more Thriveworks is a blessing. I got an appointment with a counselor within a week. Margaret Rose was wonderful. She was kind and insightful and I felt safe with her. I highly recommend Thriveworks Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids Sep 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
My son saw Denise for the first time recently and she was great. She seemed very well informed in every area and so willing to help my son with his anxiety. She actually spent time with us and seemed to care. I'm so glad we found her.
Read more My son saw Denise for the first time recently and she was great. She seemed very well informed in every area and so willing to help my son with his anxiety. She actually spent time with us and seemed to care. I'm so glad we found her.
Grand Rapids Jul 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I was in need of a psychiatrist for chronic depression and anxiety. I came across thrive having only a 4 month wait instead 9 to 12 month wait with any other psychiatrist. This was wonderful news. I met Denise as my clinician. She is very empathetic very knowledgeable. She has helped me alot sine my first vist. She is very dedicated to her patients which I truly appreciate. I would highly recommend her for any psychiatric needs. I think she goes above and beyond her role. She is a caring individual. There should be more people like Denise. She needs to be recognized for her work.
Read more I was in need of a psychiatrist for chronic depression and anxiety. I came across thrive having only a 4 month wait instead 9 to 12 month wait with any other psychiatrist. This was wonderful news. I met Denise as my clinician. She is very empathetic very knowledgeable. She has helped me alot sine my first vist. She is very dedicated to her patients which I truly appreciate. I would highly recommend her for any psychiatric needs. I think she goes above and beyond her role. She is a caring individual. There should be more people like Denise. She needs to be recognized for her work.
Grand Rapids Mar 2019
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Grand Rapids is located off of Kenmoor Ave SE. We share an office with Paper Plane Therapies, and are located near the ClearChoice Dental Implant Center.

Phone number

(616) 421-9387

Languages spoken by MI providers

  • English
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 7:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 7:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

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