Our Methods and Team

Release what’s holding you back.

The feeling of “not being good enough” is a dominating narrative. You have wondered whether there is something genuinely wrong with you.

The stories of shame, guilt, and unworthiness prevent you from showing up in your greatest capacity. You want to live joyfully from a place of authenticity, but instead, you shrink yourself to please others – and dim your shine.

But there’s one important thing you’ve forgotten…

You’re already whole and complete!

What if I told you that you already possess everything you need within you?

Despite how you feel now – regardless of your current circumstances or past traumas – you are not “broken” or unworthy. Everyone needs a little help and encouragement along the way!

This is where I come in. You deserve support and compassion as you navigate this human experience called life!

Therapy is about “coming home” to yourself.

The process of getting there – by peeling back the layers of hurt and emotional pain – can feel overwhelming and even intimidating. Sometimes you may unwittingly hold yourself back from this process for fear of failure, for fear of being “exposed,” or other limiting beliefs that hold you prisoner.

The healing process can be some of the most difficult – and the most transformational – work of your life.

Luckily, you don’t have to take this journey alone!

We’re here to hold this container for you.

Allow us to walk with you on this journey as you discover your inner healer and learn to trust yourself again.

Step into our sunny office space – or join from the comfort of your own home via teletherapy.

Relax into your comfy seat and feel seen, heard, and held – exactly as you are.

Allow this to be your first step toward living your truth from a place of clarity and purpose. An inner knowing that has always been there will take control of your life path and decisions – as you shine your light brightly in all directions!

About Rachel

Rachel Hipp

I’m Rachel, and I’m so glad you’re here!

I am a therapist, wife, mother, and friend.

As someone who has experienced profound transformation and healing in my own life, I understand how past traumas can limit how we show up in the world. I understand how it can manifest as addictions, relationship conflict, and disconnection from yourself – and how it can wreak havoc on your ability to live wholeheartedly and experience lasting happiness.

My mission is to strive to create a heart-centered container to facilitate deep and transformational healing for every client I work with – including you. Everyone has an innate capacity to heal, and I’m here to help you tap into that and take your power back.

Together, we’ll discover any barriers or limiting beliefs that are holding you back from reaching your highest potential and find lasting healing at the root cause of your pain.

My Training and Methods

I’m a licensed clinical social worker (L.M.S.W.) in the State of Michigan and completed my degree locally at Grand Valley State University. I provide holistic psychotherapy services using an integrative approach grounded in the relationship between mind, body, and spirit. I am an Advanced Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and received my training through The Wellness Institute (https://www.wellness-institute.org). I am also a certified Brainspotter and I utilize these techniques to help you get in touch with what the body already knows.

I utilize a combination of traditional psychotherapy methods, closed eye processing, and hypnotherapy to allow you to experience deep and lasting transformation.

I’m currently in a Breath therapy certification program to stay updated on the most advanced and current techniques available. I’m committed to ongoing training and development to meet the changing needs of my clients – You!

In my free time…I love cats (really ALL animals), good plant-based eats, and deep conversations.

Nature is my favorite, most relaxing place and where I find my spiritual connection. I love the beach, lakes, rivers, and the ocean!

I enjoy swimming, hiking, and spending time with my daughter and family. My favorite weekend activities include dinners and board game nights with family or friends.

Taylor Bonga

I’m Taylor Bonga, MCC, cHT, and am so happy you’re here!

I am a coach, clinical hypnotist, and EFT practitioner, as well as a devoted parent and advocate for happy families. You may also recognize me as the “first line of communication” at Heart In Balance through my work as our Operations Assistant and Therapist Intern.

My passion lies in helping women, parents, and student-athletes overcome challenges like anger, anxiety, and burnout. With a holistic approach, I provide a safe space for you to explore your innermost fears and desires, heal from past experiences, and move forward with purpose, courage and harmony.

My mission is to help you discover your unique strengths, foster a deep sense of self-love and acceptance and empower you with self regulation, communication and boundary setting skills. Combining evidence-based practices with intuition and somatic experiences, I’m here to support your journey toward a fulfilling and balanced life, even with little kids.

I am currently enrolled in the Masters of Mental Health Counseling program at Aquinas College, hold multiple coaching and hypnotherapy certifications and a Bachelor of Science in Human Services. I integrate a variety of methodologies including NLP, EFT, and hypnotherapy to tailor the best approach for your needs.

In my free time…I enjoy engaging in personal growth, connecting with nature, and spending quality time with my family. I love exploring new ideas, places and experiences that enrich my life and the lives of those I work with.

Our Therapist Partners

Whitney Pennington

I’m Whitney Pennington, LMSW, a big thanks for being here!

I am a therapist, former school counselor, and youth pastor. I’m also here on this journey of life with you!

With a deep passion for supporting pre-teens, teens, and young adults, I understand the profound impact that past traumas and intense emotions can have on our lives. Whether you’re grappling with anxiety, codependency, or simply trying to find your place in the world, I’m here to offer a safe and affirming space for everyone, including the LGBTQ+ community.

My mission is to provide a heart-centered environment that fosters healing and growth. Through positive psychology, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness interventions, I strive to empower you to navigate your challenges and achieve lasting well-being. Through Brainspotting, I am also able to take my clients deeper into healing and releasing the body’s stored trauma and help you achieve a greater sense of wellbeing.

I’m a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and bring a wealth of experience from my background as a school counselor and youth pastor. My approach integrates traditional and modern therapeutic techniques to create a holistic and effective therapy experience. In my free time… I like to volunteer in my community, play games of all kinds, and hang out with my friends and family 🙂 I also paint and puzzle.

Analise Osgood

I’m Analise Osgood, LMSW, thank you for being here!

I am a therapist and graduate of U of M, embarking on this journey to support you through your mental health challenges.

Having worked with clients facing anxiety, depression, and stress, I understand the complexities of life transitions and the need for a compassionate approach. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, navigating life changes, or seeking support as an LGBTQIA+ individual, I’m here to provide a holistic and mindful therapy experience.

My mission is to help you uncover and address the root causes of your struggles, using a blend of CBT, ACT, mindfulness, DBT techniques and Hypnotherapy.

I’m a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with a background in counseling at a university setting. My approach is rooted in a holistic perspective, and I’m currently pursuing additional training in somatic therapies to better serve you.

In my free time, I like to spend time with my dog and in nature, watch movies, read, and cook! I also love playing tennis and I love downhill skiing.

Cara Morelli

I’m Cara Morelli, LLPC, and I’m so glad you’re here!

I am a therapist dedicated to helping adults navigate anxiety, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. My goal is to provide a nurturing and supportive environment where you can explore your struggles and find healing.

With a holistic, person-centered approach, I utilize CBT and mindfulness techniques, including meditation practices and guided imagery, to help you connect with your body and mind. Whether you’re dealing with relationship challenges or exploring your self-worth, I’m here to guide you on your journey to well-being.

My mission is to support your growth and help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself, fostering lasting change and fulfillment.

I’m a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) with a focus on integrating mind-body connections in therapy. I’m passionate about expanding my expertise in somatic modalities and eating disorders to enhance my practice.

In my free time, I enjoy hiking and yoga. I love anything involving animals and nature 🙂

Kendra Avila

I’m Kendra Avila, LLMSW, and I’m so glad you’re here!

I am a therapist with a profound commitment to supporting adults and teens facing anxiety, depression, and trauma. With a background in aiding teens and families experiencing housing instability, I bring a compassionate and empathetic approach to therapy.

I strive to create a safe space for you to reclaim your self-worth and navigate life’s challenges, with a special dedication to the LGBTQIA+ community. Through a holistic perspective I aim to facilitate transformative healing and growth.

My mission is to help you understand and address the root causes of your struggles, empowering you to achieve sustainable well-being.

I’m a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker (LLMSW) with experience in supporting individuals through various mental health concerns utilizing a wide range of therapy interventions from CBT to mindfulness. I am currently offering hypnotherapy and pursuing additional post-graduate training in somatic therapies. It is important to me to integrate mind-body connections to enhance the therapy experience.

In my free time… I enjoy spending time in nature, connecting with my community, and exploring new interests. My evenings often include activities that promote relaxation and personal growth.

Mae Gunner-Zoerman

I’m Meaghan Gunner-Zoerman, LMSW, and I’m excited to meet you!

I work with children, teens, and families who are feeling overwhelmed by big emotions and experiences – both past and present. Maybe you’re a parent feeling lost as you try to support a struggling child, or perhaps you’re someone who’s experienced something (or many somethings) that shook your sense of safety and connection. You may not have all the words yet, but you know something inside needs care. I’m here to offer a space where all the pieces – confusion, fear, hope, and healing – are welcome.

With a strong foundation in interpersonal neurobiology, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and advanced training in Synergistic Play Therapy, I help children as young as 3 (and up to age 17), as well as parents and adults, connect with their inner resources for safety, regulation, and healing. My goal is to help you or your child feel seen, understood, and supported – never alone in the process.

It’s a joy and an honor to walk with families and individuals as they make sense of what they’ve been through and grow into more connected, grounded versions of themselves. Thank you for letting me be a part of that journey!

Noel Gladding

Hi! I’m Noel Gladding, LLMSW – I’m so glad you’re here.

I’m a therapist with a deep love for mind-body healing and holistic care. After completing my clinical internship at a holistic therapy practice in 2024, I knew I had found my path. I’m passionate about working with individuals, couples, families, teens, and older children as they navigate life’s challenges.

Before becoming a therapist, I spent over 15 years serving in various roles at the Department of Health and Human Services – including CPS, foster care, and administrative work. This background gives me a grounded and compassionate lens when sitting with people through the hard and beautiful parts of life. More recently, I’ve also worked in medical social work, and I’m trained in Gottman Level 1 couples therapy.

My current focus is deepening my use of somatic therapy and body-based techniques to help clients access healing in a safe, connected way. I believe in therapy that honors the whole person – mind, body, and spirit.

I see clients virtually and in-person at our Hastings, MI, office and I can’t wait to connect.

In my free time…I enjoy meaningful time with my family, being in nature and with my horses, and exploring all things creative and grounding!

Christina Mangold

I’m Christina Mangold, LMSW, CAADC, CCTP-II

I am a therapist who is deeply committed to supporting individuals as they navigate anxiety, life transitions, and emotional patterns that can leave them feeling stuck or disconnected from themselves. I believe therapy is most effective when it feels safe, collaborative, and deeply human, and I strive to meet each client with compassion, curiosity, and respect.

My work is rooted in a holistic, nervous-system-informed approach that honors the connection between mind, body, and emotional experience. Together, we explore not only present-day challenges, but the deeper patterns and experiences that shape how you relate to yourself and others. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, navigating change, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I aim to create a grounded and supportive space for healing and growth.

I integrate a range of evidence-based and experiential modalities, including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Hakomi, CBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. I also incorporate somatic awareness and am a Certified Reiki Practitioner, allowing for a gentle, body-centered and energetically attuned approach when appropriate and desired. My training as a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional – Level II (CCTP-II) further informs my trauma-informed, integrative approach to care.

I’m a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and value ongoing learning and self-reflection as essential parts of being a therapist. I believe therapy is not about “fixing,” but about reconnecting with your own inner resources, wisdom, and capacity for healing.

In my free time, I enjoy slowing down and grounding…spending time outdoors, being with loved ones, and engaging in creative or reflective practices that help me stay present and nourished.

Renn Bulthuis

Hi, I’m Renn Bulthuis, LLMSW

I am a therapist who believes deeply in the power of relationship, safety, and attuned presence as foundations for healing. Many of the clients I work with are navigating anxiety, identity exploration, life transitions, or the lingering impact of past experiences that continue to shape how they feel in their bodies and relate to others. My role is to offer a steady, compassionate space where you don’t have to perform, explain, or hold it all together.

My approach to therapy is holistic and nervous-system-informed, honoring the wisdom of both mind and body. I’m especially attentive to how experiences are held somatically, and I support clients in gently increasing awareness, choice, and self-trust at a pace that feels respectful and safe. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply seeking a deeper sense of alignment, therapy can be a place to come home to yourself.

I draw from modalities such as mindfulness-based therapy, somatic approaches, parts-informed work, and relational therapy. Sessions are collaborative and adaptive, shaped by your goals, values, and what feels most supportive for your system. I strive to create an affirming and inclusive space for clients of all identities, including LGBTQIA+ individuals.

I’m a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker (LLMSW) and value ongoing learning, reflection, and authenticity in both my clinical work and my own life. I see therapy not as a process of deepening connection – to yourself, to others, and to what matters most to you.

In my free time, I enjoy grounding and restorative activities, spending time in nature, and engaging in creative or reflective practices that support balance and presence.