Makenzie VanMeter, LLMSW-C completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Michigan State University, with a focus on child welfare, and her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Western Michigan University, with a specialization in trauma across the lifespan and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Makenzie Vanmeter, LLMSW-C is a therapist for families of young child
ren. She provides counseling in the Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, and South West Michigan areas.
Her clinical interests include working with young children who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as those that are behaviorally challenged with disruptive and impulsive behaviors. She believes that children should have a safe space to express themselves through play and activities in a way that aligns with their development and individual interests. As each child is unique, she values utilizing interventions that are fun and engaging, including therapeutic games and worksheets. She acknowledges the impact that a parent has on their child’s life and therefore works hand in hand with caregivers and families, assisting them in learning tools and skills alongside their child. She also enjoys working with families and children in enhancing their relationships and boundary-setting.
Makenzie’s treatment approach is trauma-informed, strength-based, culturally sensitive, and person-centered. She uses several different approaches to best fit the child and family’s individual needs and strengths. She views the child through a holistic lens exploring all aspects of their life. Each intervention and treatment plan is centered around the client’s needs, goals, and strengths, while focused on enhancing their overall quality of life. Makenzie is trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and evidence-based treatment for children impacted by trauma or struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder.
In receiving trauma-specific treatment under her care, a client can expect to be treated with dignity and respect in a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere. Makenzie utilizes her understanding of child development and the manifestation of trauma in the body, both physically and mentally, to create a safe and warm environment for clients to explore their day-to-day experiences, emotions, and thoughts. Clients are the experts of their own life, as she believes that her role as a therapist is to work collaboratively with families and children, in order to achieve their defined growth and goals. She believes that each person deserves the opportunity to be the best version of themselves and succeed in life no matter what their life may look like. She values helping her clients express and communicate feelings, cope with different life events, and become empowered while building resilience.
Makenzie is also trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy and evidenced-based treatment to help parents and children connect and set firm health boundaries. Makenzie helps families communicate deep love and affection for one another through play.
“Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression.” – Haim Ginott.
Makenzie has experience working with children and adolescents struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger management, self-esteem, and relationships, as well as developmental concerns, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. She also has experience working in school and residential home settings.