Shannon Aardema, LPC

Hi, I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Family Studies. After 12 years of teaching in public schools, I followed my passion for mental health in 2012 and began working as a private practice therapist. My education and experience allow me to view each client within the context of their family, school, and life experiences, supporting a holistic approach to care.

I work with clients across the life span, from young children to adults, tailoring therapy to meet each individual’s unique needs. I draw from a range of approaches—including Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Sandtray, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy—selecting what is most effective and meaningful for each client. My style is warm, creative, and deeply client-centered, and I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, supported, and understood as whole individuals. I enjoy working with individual children and adolescents, as well as adults across all stages of life. I support clients with school, work, and life adjustment; managing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders; helping with executive functioning challenges; emotional regulation; and embracing the neurodiverse experience. I am also committed to supporting LGBTQIA+ clients and their families. I enjoy partnering with parents as they navigate the many ups and downs of raising children.

I’m a lifelong learner and am always expanding my therapeutic toolbox. I also am a certified AutPlay® therapist and am close to completing my Registered Play Therapist™ (RPT) credential. Whether we’re exploring through play, creating through art, or building skills together, my goal is for therapy to feel like a place where you can grow, heal, and truly be yourself.

Call me or text me at 269-447-0979 to set up an appointment — I’d be honored to support you, your child, or your family on the journey ahead.