November 30, 2023


Finding the right therapist

Finding the right fit in a therapist is one of the most important aspects of therapy. We encourage new clients to look around before settling on a therapist. Reading a therapist’s bio before you meet them for the first time can be a good start, but that may not be enough to tell if they’re the right one for you. This uncertainty is what keeps a lot of people from beginning therapy in the first place. “How do I know for sure that I’ll like them?” You won’t know until you meet them. It might feel awkward to meet with someone once and then tell them you’re not coming back, but I promise we will not take it personally. We want you to have the right therapist, because you deserve to be completely comfortable with your therapist in your sessions.

Looking at websites like psychologytoday.com is a great place to start. There, you can find therapist’s bio and videos to get an idea of how they work. You can also apply filters (e.g. insurance, location, types of therapy, etc.) to narrow down your search. Some people find it important to have a therapist they can relate to; someone who has a similar background or is close in age to them. This can help you feel more comfortable in their office, but unfortunately there may not always be someone available who meets your criteria. We encourage you to keep an open mind, as you may be surprised at who you can make a connection with. Looking for qualities and characteristics that help you feel safe, comfortable, and confident in your therapist can come in a variety of forms.

It's important to remember that your therapist is there to work with you and your needs. You have every right to ask for what need. Having an idea of what you are looking for, in terms of their approach, can be helpful. Do you want to vent? Are you looking for guidance and advice? Do you need help processing a trauma? Or help with learning additional coping skills? Tell your therapist and they will be willing to navigate that with you. It’s also common to not know what you are looking for. Our therapist will help you navigate this as well by asking questions, exploring options and discussing goals.

Therapy is a collaborative process. It can be like finding a good study partner or good co-worker. It takes time but once you do, the benefits are numerous. If you’re interested in getting the process started, please reach out to us at Oak Tree Counseling and Wellness.

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Accepted Insurances

Oak Tree Counseling and Wellness (OTCW) is credentialed with multiple insurance companies. We also offer rates on a sliding scale for those who will be paying privately.

Accepted insurances include:

  • BCBS of Michigan
  • BCN
  • BCC
  • Meridian
  • Magellan
  • McLaren Health Plan
  • Medicare
  • Paramount
  • Priority Health
  • UBH Optum
  • Value Options
  • Private pay clients can range for $80-$140 per session

Job Opportunities

We’re Hiring for LLMSW’s!

Oak Tree Counseling and Wellness (OTCW) in Ann Arbor is hiring Limited License Master Social Workers (LLMSW). OTCW helps adults, adolescents, and families with various needs. We specialize in a behavioral therapy called CBIT (Comprehensive Behavioral Interventions for Tics) and need additional professionals to meet the growing need. This is an opportunity to learn a specialty that can take your career further. We also have the expertise to address other mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, PTSD and stressful life transitions. We are a growing practice that is flexible to meet your needs and wants to help you grow and specialize in the direction you choose. We’re seeking a LLMSW who is interested in learning CBIT with the flexibility of adding other desired areas of interest. No experience in CBIT is necessary to apply.

We are looking for someone who has the following:

  • LLMSW License
  • Some clinical experience
  • Interest in working with adolescents, adults, and families
  • Interest in learning CBIT
  • Willing to work part-time or full-time
What OTCW will offer:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Flexible schedule
  • Office space
  • EHR/Administrative Services (note system, email, call screening, TeleHealth services)
  • Client referrals
  • Credentialing services
  • Weekly (paid) supervision by LMSW Supervisor
  • CBIT Training
  • Billing services
  • Interest in helping you develop your own practice
If interested, please send your resume to info@oaktreemi.com

Additional Resources

Additional resources you can access

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to one of the following:

The 24-hour National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
The Ozone House, a 24-hour hotline for youth, at 734-662-2222
The 24-hour hotline at U of M Psychiatric Emergency Services at 734-936-5900
The Washtenaw County Community Mental Health crisis team at 734-544-3050

To connect with the Tourette’s Association, Michigan Chapter, please email: MichiganTouretteConnect@gmail.com

"Storms make oaks take deeper root."
-George Herbert