Matt Thatcher, LPC CCS, is Bloom’s chief clinical facilitator and a full-time practicing therapist. He has been part of the Lakeshore and Grand Rapids communities for over 40 years. His academic journey led him to Western Michigan University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Psychology and Criminal Justice while minoring in Philosophy.

Taking a detour into the ski industry in Vail, Colorado, for a span of two years, Matt eventually returned to Chicago, pursuing graduate studies at the Chicago School of Forensic Psychology and completing a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology.

His practicum training unfolded at Advocate Illinois Masonic Behavioral Health, where he also held a clinical therapy position in their outpatient clinic. Throughout his career, Matt has gained experience in varied clinical settings and levels of mental health care, including adult and children’s psychiatric hospitals, outpatient therapy clinics, and now developing his private practice.

In 2013, Matt became a Michigander again and was licensed as a professional counselor in the state of Michigan. Matt’s therapeutic approach is developed from cognitive behavioral therapy, and integrates aspects of client-centered, internal family systems and PCIT. Notably, Matt has expertise and added training in treating Selective Mutism and other anxiety disorders. Matt recently achieved qualifications as a Certified Clinical Supervisor for Limited Licensed Professional Counselors (LLPCs), enabling him to offer clinical supervision to those striving for full licensure.

Matt finds deep meaning in his work as he sees his client’s progress and shift in mindset. “I greatly admire the difficult work my clients do and enjoy seeing personal growth of all kinds. I feel most fulfilled when people allow me to walk with them, and be part of their story as they heal and grow.”

Kayleigh earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Central Michigan University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Wayne State University. A licensed Master Social Worker who holds credentials as a Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor, Kayleigh is a Level II Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. She is licensed in both Michigan and Illinois and sees clients from both states. Her experience in the mental health field includes inpatient, rehabilitation, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient services.

Kayleigh specializes in women’s mental health, trauma, and substance use disorders. She employs a comprehensive approach to therapy, customizing care for each person by integrating education, emotional processing, and the practical application of coping strategies. 

“Supporting people in resolving their internal struggles, fostering a sense of self-worth, and managing stressors is what I enjoy most about my profession,” she says. “I always feel honored that people allow me into their lives in such a way that takes true vulnerability and strength.”

When she’s not working, you’ll find Kayleigh in the great outdoors, cherishing moments with family and friends, staying active through exercise, and indulging in the art of crocheting.

Currently, Kayleigh exclusively offers telehealth appointments to provide individuals with greater flexibility and the availability to participate from the comfort of their chosen environment.

Dr. Karvounides is a clinical psychologist who is passionate about her work in supporting youth, young adults, and their families to address life’s challenges. Over the past 17 years, she has worked with diverse patients who are coping with anxiety, depression, adjustment to chronic illness-particularly chronic pain conditions, as well as difficulties faced with peer and family relationships.

Her expertise comes through years of work at multiple academic medical centers in the country, including her recent role as pediatric psychologist for 8 years in the pediatric headache program at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. She has also worked with the humanitarian organization, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF)/Doctors Without Borders as she is passionate about supporting and improving the health of citizens globally, including expatriates, immigrants, and refugees.

Her engagement in sessions involves a joint understanding and agreement of the challenges you would like to see change in your life, combined with recommendations and a treatment approach that is evidence-based. She is committed to providing the best care possible through an empathic environment that is sensitive to all areas of difference and a trusted partnership that is foundational to improve coping and change. She is thrilled to be a part of Bloom Behavioral Health Partners and looks forward to working with you.

Dr. Karvounides is available for virtual/telehealth appointments.

Jeff, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, provides telehealth counseling for Bloom Behavioral Health Partners. He earned his MSW from the University of Michigan, which is also where his interest in therapy was born during his undergraduate years, majoring in Speech and Drama.

His early professional experiences included working with inmates in a prison for three years, where he first used what later became one of his favorite approaches to therapy: humor. “I joked around with the inmates and found it was the best approach for many of them,” he says, adding, “I even snuck in a copy of ‘Airplane!’ as contraband!” Humor therapy has proven effective for clients on the outside as well. “I use humor in my sessions to take the focus off the negative,” he says.

In practice for more than 50 years, Jeff specializes in helping people with substance abuse disorders and their families. He also provides couples counseling and general mental health therapy. 

In addition to humor therapy, Jeff also employs Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, which operates under the belief that our behavior is controlled by our thoughts, an approach he finds practical and relatable; and Positive Psychology. He believes strongly in continuing education and regularly reads up on the latest information about the ever-changing world of therapy. 

Kaitlyn began her higher education early, starting her Associate’s Degree through an early college program that began in high school. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sork from Grand Valley State University, followed by her Master’s Degree in Social Work a year later through GVSU’s Advanced Standing Master’s Program.

Working with individuals aged 15 and older, Kaitlyn brings extensive experience in treating substance-use disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions, and depressive disorders. This background allows her to effectively support clients facing a wide range of challenges, including interpersonal difficulties, substance use and abuse, trauma, life transitions, gender-related concerns, and issues related to self-esteem.
Considering herself to be an eclectic and collaborative therapist, Kaitlyn tailors the modalities and methods she uses for the individual. She most commonly pulls from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Committance Therapy, and Strengths-Based Practices in her work with clients.
“I tend to let the client guide the direction of therapy because I understand people come to therapy for a variety of reasons. I evaluate what is needed, and tailor my process to best meet the needs of the client.”
Outside practicing therapy, you’ll find Kaitlyn baking, playing video games, spending time with her three nephews and niece, and relaxing with her two beloved cats, Murphee and Moonee.

“Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions that you may have. I understand that beginning therapy is an intimidating process and want to alleviate that stress as much as possible. Taking this step is an amazing opportunity to learn more about yourself, heal areas that need healing, and learn how to thrive in your world again.”

Wendy’s career has been about helping people: as a school teacher, yoga, mindfulness, and
meditation instructor as well as an active community member. Now as a therapist, she continues
her guiding principle of “respecting the spirit in each individual.” Her work is holistic in nature,
supporting the mind, emotions, and body of her clients as a whole. Combining her GVSU
Master of Social Work degree with her years of other professional experiences, Wendy provides
a unique person-centered approach for her clients on their path and meets them where they are
at in their lives.

In her practice Wendy uses somatics, mindfulness, yoga, self-compassion practices and similar
modalities such as experiencing nature for overall wellness in individuals and relationship
concerns. She provides trauma-informed care, and specializes in women’s issues, anxiety and
depression, life transitions, and interpersonal relationships. She works with individuals of all
ages, including those who have family histories of addiction and substance use disorders. Additionally, she has a deep interest in end of life issues, grief and loss. Given her years as a teacher,
she still enjoys working with children, adolescents, along with providing parental and family
support.

Life can be challenging at times. Wendy feels honored to help provide a safe and healing
environment for individuals and families, collaborating with them to find more balance and
equanimity in their lives. Wendy’s personal passions include gardening, reading, being at the
lakeshore, wandering a farm market, and hiking in area parks.