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.

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 Work from Grand Valley State University, followed by her Master’s Degree in Social Work a year later through GVSU’s Advanced Standing Masters Program.

Kaitlyn works with individuals ages 15 and up with a wide array of diagnoses. She is highly experienced working with: substance use disorders, domestic violence, gender issues, trauma, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem, and interpersonal/relationships issues. Kaitlyn has additional training that helps her work with those who struggle with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder, as well as the neurodivergent population.

Although she has trained in a number of therapeutic approaches, she most commonly uses cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, and dialectical behavioral therapy informed approaches. “I am very individualized in the way that I approach therapy. I tailor my approach to best help the client based on their current stage of change and their issues. I am guided by the client in the way that I conduct my sessions, and tailor that process to meet their needs the best.”

Outside of practicing therapy, you’ll find Kaitlyn crafting, doing puzzles, playing video games, and relaxing with her two beloved cats, Moonee and Murphee. “I am very independent and as part of my healing journey have been immersing myself in new interests such as learning new cooking techniques and practicing yoga.”

“My favorite part of this work is the honor of being trusted to help someone during some of their darkest parts, as well as some of their lightest parts. I love that I am able to help people, as I have received help in my own process. It is such a privilege to be able to show up for someone who might not have anyone else.”

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.