Emily VanderPlas, MSW, LMSW

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About Emily

Emily is a Licensed Master of Social Work with a passion for serving both children and families. Emily has over 6 years of experience working with children and families in the mental health and child welfare fields both in home-based and outpatient settings.

With her diverse experience, Emily is able to tailor the therapy experience to fit individual needs by using a variety of evidence-based therapy methods including play therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy.

Emily is fluent in Spanish and English and has experience working with families in both languages. Using a client-centered approach, Emily believes in meeting families where they are in terms of the therapeutic process and in drawing upon inherent strengths to empower families and individuals.

Additionally, Emily places a high priority on working together with her clients in order to establish a trusting and collaborative relationship focused on creating long-term healing.

Contact Emily: 616-773-2908 ext 110

EMAIL: emily.vanderplas@ihcwestmichigan.com

Education

  • Calvin College, Bachelor’s in Social Work

  • Grand Valley State University, Master’s in Social Work

Therapeutic Approaches

  • Solution Focused Brief therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral therapy

  • Play therapy

  • Person-Centered approaches

Treatment Interests

  • Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Families

  • Play therapy

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Self-harm

  • Behavior Concerns

  • Trauma

  • Stress management

  • Anger management

  • Healthy coping skills

  • Parenting

  • Attachment/bonding

  • Communication issues

Memberships: 

  • NASW (National Association of Social Workers)

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