Melissa Meengs, LMSW

I’ve never met a client who had anything “wrong” with them. 

My name is Melissa, and I am deeply passionate about working with people who have been profoundly affected by the things that have happened to them. Through my work, I have helped individuals who have experienced challenging relationships or painful events. When I meet with people, I try to guide them in understanding how these moments have shaped their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It can be helpful to put words to those visceral and confusing experiences and share them in a safe setting with someone who cares without judging. 

My education and training, beginning with my Bachelor's of Social work from Calvin University, Master's of Social work from the University of Michigan; work in child welfare, schools, in my clients’ homes, and in outpatient therapy; as well as my lived experience as a mother and grandparent provide me with not only knowledge, but compassion as well, as I work with individuals of all ages--from young children to senior adults. I understand that the journey is not always easy, but the process is worth the reward.

I want to equip my clients with information and resources to continue to learn and grow long after our work together is done. My approach to my clients is rooted in humility: my clients are the experts on their own lives and in charge of their health care. I can offer my training, my experience, and my guidance but my clients do the real work and their progress is their own. My practice is very much informed by the work of others including Bessel Vanderkolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score, and Dr. Ramani Durvasula, author of It’s Not You. I have specialized training in child traumatic stress, and I also refer clients and parents frequently to the wealth of information available on the National Child Traumatic Stress Network: www.nctsn.org . Additionally and importantly; mental health care is part of basic health care and I encourage all of my clients to create a robust system of health care providers and other sources of support in all areas of life. 

Getting help can be intimidating, and seeking help for your child can feel threatening. I’ve been there. When you are ready, reach out. 

I am offering in-person or online counseling through Open Chair Counseling to meet people where they're at in life and help them move towards the person and the future they desire.

Phone: 616-275-4340

Email: melissa@openchaircounseling.com