"Empowering Your Mental Health Journey With Integrated Care"

Marissa Whitford, MA, LPC | Therapist in Grand Blanc, MI, & Online Therapy


Hello! I’m Marissa. Thank you for reading my bio. I have been a licensed professional counselor for the past 13 years, dedicating my career to working with at-risk youth in Flint. My goal is to empower these young people and their families to reach their full potential.

Over the years, I have worked with youth facing a variety of challenges, including running away, anger issues, experiences of abuse, adoption, truancy, and other difficult situations. I am particularly passionate about helping young people dealing with depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues. I have also received extensive training in topics such as trauma-informed care and suicide awareness, which are essential in my practice.

In my counseling sessions, I employ a combination of talk therapy, activities, and educational components. As someone who has experienced similar challenges in the past, I understand the importance of therapy in fostering healing and growth.

I believe in a strengths-based, client-centered approach to therapy. By utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, I help individuals understand and process their thoughts and emotions, which is crucial for recovery from past trauma. It is also important to learn how to cope with overwhelming and negative emotions.

Are you ready to reach your full potential? Let’s get started!

"Hakuna Matata"- The Lion King

Check Out Marissa's Psychology Today Profile


Marissa's Therapeutic Information

Locations

Click the location name to explore the offices.

Specialties

  • Preteens (12+), Teens, & Adults
  • Families
  • Anger Management, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Grief/loss, LGBTQ+, and Self-Esteem
  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Strength-Based, and Trauma-Focused

Accepted Insurances

  • Aetna
    • Meritain
  • BCBS
  • HAP
    • ASR Health Benefits
    • Caresource
    • Varipro
  • McLaren Health Advantage
  • Medicaid (*not under 21)
    • Blue Cross Complete
    • McLaren
  • Medicare
  • Priority Health

Ready to Begin Your Mental Health Journey? 

Request a free 15-minute *therapy* consultation, schedule an appointment, or ask our team a question. 

Empowering Your Mental Health Journey With Integrated Care

Ready to feel better? We’re here to help.

At Giesken Counseling Services, we’ve created a welcoming, judgment-free space where your mental health journey begins with compassion and clarity. Our dedicated team of therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners provides comprehensive support for your healing journey, whether you're looking for therapy, psychiatric services, or both.

Read GCS Reviews

Serving Flint Twp., Grand Blanc, Clarkston, and Rochester Hills, MI, we offer in-person and online telehealth to fit your life.

Secure HIPAA-compliant Online Telehealth is available for therapy and psychiatric services to all Michigan Residents.

  • *Intake for psychiatric services MUST BE IN-PERSON.  After initial intake, online/telehealth appointments may be available if desired.

📞 Call us at (810) 626-5191 or fill out our contact form to ask a question, schedule your FREE 15-minute *THERAPY consultation, or book an appointment.

You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s take the first step together.

Begin your healing journey today!

Schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation, appointment, or feel free to ask a question.

"I had the opportunity to refer someone to the GCS Rochester Hills location - the process was smooth for both myself and the client. Cannot recommend this agency enough - wish there were more stars!"

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Google Review

“My therapist is well-informed, relatable, receptive, and helpful. She has provided multiple resources for me with anything I’d like to learn more about. She consistently holds me accountable and is kind in helping me grow. It’s the strongest therapeutic relationship I’ve ever experienced with a therapist.”

Client Feedback Survey

"My daughter has been practicing techniques at home that she learns with her therapist. She has definitely grown, and her conditions have improved since beginning with Giesken Counseling."

Client Feedback Survey

“Having a good relationship with a therapist was something I struggled to find. I feel like my therapist listens and doesn't judge me. I trust her, and that makes it easy to open up.”

Client Feedback Survey

"All three of my children, including one of their significant others, attend Giesken Counseling, and I can't thank Giesken enough! The help that all of them have received over the years has made a tremendously beneficial impact on the quality of their lives. As a family, we All highly recommend Giesken Counseling!"

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Google Review

"Our grandson has been visiting one of the wonderful counselors at GCS for the last three months, and we couldn’t be happier! It’s heartwarming to see his smile coming back, and he’s enjoying more happy days. Plus, he’s doing a great job managing his emotions. We’re so thankful our daughter discovered GCS for him!"

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Google Review

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