Meet The Team
Management Team
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CEO, Founder and TrainerJosh Smith, MSW, LMSW, is a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Clinician, and the Founder and CEO of the DBT Institute of Michigan. Josh graduated with his Master’s Degree from Michigan State University’s School of Social Work. He also earned his undergraduate degree from MSU in Social Work as a student-athlete on the football team. Upon graduation, he was employed at Branch County Community Mental Health for 4 1⁄2 years as an Outpatient Therapist. After working at CMH, Josh trained and consulted on DBT for a national CEU company called PESI for 7 years. In 2010, Josh became a trainer and consultant for the State of Michigan’s Department of Community Mental Health in DBT where he has served in this role ever since. He has also successfully led multiple DBT implementation training projects in Nebraska and Pennsylvania. In total, he has given over 700 trainings and lectures in every single state in a variety of settings including universities and schools, hospitals, residential programs, outpatient agencies as well as adolescent and adult forensic centers. Josh completed his Intensive DBT Training by Behavioral Tech (a training company founded by Marsha Linehan, PhD) in 2004, has attended numerous trainings on DBT and topics related to suicide and Borderline Personality Disorder, received two years of supervision by international DBT expert Linda Dimeff, PhD, and was part of one of the first cohorts to become Certified in DBT by Marsha Linehan’s Board of Certifiers. In his spare time he likes to be with his family, travel and metal detect.
Chief Clinical OfficerDiana Osborn, MA, LPC, MITS, is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and her Master’s Degree in Counseling at Siena Heights University. She joined the DBT Center team in 2008, and became co-owner of the DBT Institute of Michigan in 2016. Diana has completed various trainings in DBT and has completed the four day DBT PE training for PTSD. She has experience working with adults, adolescents, and children with a variety of diagnosis including suicidal, self-harming, and risky behaviors. She has experience leading adult and adolescent groups. Diana has conducted DBT trainings and presentations in various venues. She is also continuously obtaining training and experience in treating dissociative disorders, Dissociative Identity Disorder, chronic PTSD, and complex trauma. She has completed 40 hours of training at The Mentoring Institute (MITS), receiving certification in Supervision of LLPC’s.
Residential Medical Team
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NurseCourtney is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) currently pursuing her Associate Degree in Nursing at Lansing Community College. She is eager to begin her nursing career at the DBT Institute of Michigan and is committed to providing compassionate, client-centered mental health care. Outside of work, Courtney enjoys relaxing at the lake, watching TV, and spending quality time with her family.
NurseEmma Hagman is a Registered Nurse in the State of Michigan. She received her bachelor's degree from Northern Michigan University. She has been an RN for over 7 years, and would choose this path all over again, if she had the chance. One of the most important things that Emma does is to advocate for her patients. One of her favorite things to do is to help my patients gain understanding. In her free time she enjoys reading, painting, creating, and caring for her many animals. Emma has 4 rescue dogs, 4 snakes, 3 lizards, a frog, a tortoise, and a rabbit.
Clinical Therapists, Mason Clinic
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TherapistAshley Church is a licensed master social worker. She is certified as an advanced addiction counselor (CAADC) and trauma specialist (EMDR and TF-CBT trained). She has over 15 years of clinical experience and is passionate about serving youth, families and individuals. She has worked with a variety of populations, including women’s health, pregnancy and adoption, parents and infant mental health, children, adolescents, adults, and families. Her areas of specialty include PTSD, life transition, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, attachment and childhood/family of origin substance abuse. Other therapeutic approaches Ashley uses are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, seeking safety, nurturing parent, solution focused, mindfulness, family systems and play therapy. She knows each individual is unique, so utilizes their strengths and needs to assist them in finding their sense of purpose, hope, and ability to cope when life throws a curve ball.
TherapistAshley, an LLMSW, started her social work journey at Central Michigan University, where she completed her BSW. During this time she worked as an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) technician, providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)- based interventions to adolescents with ASD. In this role she supported clients in developing individual living skills and facilitated groups focused on enhancing social skills and decreasing social anxiety. Ashley went on to earn her Masters of Social Work (MSW) with a clinical focus from Michigan State University. While completing her graduate degree she gained experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She developed and implemented individualized treatment plans using a variety of therapeutic approaches including CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Brief Solution-Focused Therapy. She is known for her strong ability to build rapport with clients, fostering a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship that supports meaningful progress. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care that is tailored to each client's unique needs and goals. She believes in healing through connection. Ashley is a foodie who enjoys being outside, traveling, sightseeing and having new experiences.
PsychologistDaniel is a DLLP, Doctoral Limited License Psychologist, who received his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Daniel completed his internship at Wellspan Philhaven in York, PA, serving to assess and treat a large variety of mental health problems for adults and adolescents in outpatient community mental health and medical settings using Beck-model CBT. Daniel received specialized training in treating suicidal behaviors in adolescents through practicum at the STAR Center in Pittsburgh, PA, co-leading DBT-informed skills groups for their intensive outpatient program. Daniel enjoys working with adults and adolescents of all genders, notably those with personality disorders, severe depression, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders. He has experience working with those at high risk of suicide in outpatient settings. He has been trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy for the treatment of personality disorders and self-damaging behaviors, as well as Cognitive Processing Therapy for the treatment of PTSD. Daniel strives to treat every person with compassion and understanding, no matter their background or current struggles. Daniel is an optimist with a dry sense of humor. He enjoys tabletop RPGs, cooking, fantasy paperbacks, video game repair, comedy music, swimming, very old websites, singing in groups, forests, animation, and learning new musical instruments.
TherapistDeb is an LLMSW, Limited Licensed Master Social Worker with a CAADC Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counseling Certificate.She graduated with her Bachelors from Spring Arbor University her Masters from Western Michigan University. With her Bachelors degree she was a case manager working in areas: Mental Health, Housing, Inpatient, and Mental Health Treatment Court. It was with her Bachelor degree she was first introduced to DBT while attending WMU for her Masters and was trained in the 2-day and 5-day with Josh Smith, DBT Institute of Michigan co-owner and DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Clinician. Deb has practiced DBT since 2017 and has worked as a DBT therapist since 2019. Deb has also received training for DBT-PE Prolonged Exposure. Deb is interested in working with Individuals living with an array of challenges, not limited to Personality Disorders, Trauma, Anxiety, Chronic Pain, Depression and Mood Disorders. She is looking forward to working with adolescents and adults at the DBT Institute.
TherapistEmily is a comprehensively trained DBT therapist, a skills trainer, and a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional. Shegraduated with a Masters of Education and Educational Specialist Degrees from Clemson University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. She has experience in the school system, psychiatric hospitals, and outpatient therapy. She hasworked with individuals, couples, and families. Whether you have had many therapists, or are encountering this journey for the first time, ALL are welcome. Within the therapy session, she strives to balance change and acceptance, validation and problem solving, and work with you to build a life worth living. She has specialized training working with the LGBTQ+ Population, and am Kink and Poly-knowledgeable and affirming. In therapy many times it is difficult to share aspects about yourself due to fear or shame of being judged or misunderstood. She prides herself on providing an environment that is open and accepting, and where she welcomes feedback on how to best support you. She has completed Intensive Training with the Behavioral Tech Institute in January 2025 and has been a part of DBT Consultation Teams since January 2024. She has also received training in EMDR, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Sand Tray. She works with individuals with various diagnoses including Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. So many people in life feel lonely, misunderstood, or like they’re “too much” for those around them. It can be so difficult to be vulnerable and reach out for support, so there is immense strength and vulnerability to reach out for therapeutic services. Everyone deserves and is worthy of support. If there is a way she is able to support you, please don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule an appointment.
Intensive Outpatient Director and TherapistErika is an LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, who received her bachelors of science degree in Bible Theology and Counseling from Great Lakes Christian College. After that she went on to achieve her Master's Degree from Spring Arbor University in Counseling. Erika completed her 600 hour internship at the Michigan State University Counseling Center where she participated in a Multi-Cultural Seminar every week. She also co-lead a group to students on Cultivating Mindfulness. She has a heart and passion for helping people to find their path in life. Erika jointed the DBT Team in May 2016 and completed both the 2- Day and 5-Day comprehensive trainings with Josh Smith, DBT Institute of Michigan co-owner and DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Clinician. Erika is interested in working with individuals of all ages who experience a wide range of challenges, including but not limited to personality disorders, anxiety, trauma, depression, bi-polar and other mood disorders. Erika is also trained in TF-CBT to help children and families who have experienced trauma.
TherapistKelly is a LLPC, Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, who received her MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University in May of 2023. During her time at Walden University, she also became a member of Chi Sigma Iota, the honor society for counselors. Kelly completed her internship at the DBT Institute of Michigan and is excited to begin her career at the same place. Kelly has completed both the 5-Day Core DBT Training and the Adolescent and Multi-Family DBT Training with Josh Smith, DBT Institute of Michigan co-owner and DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Clinician. Kelly is interested in working with individuals of all ages who struggle with a variety of mental health illnesses. This includes depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, and substance abuse. Prior to becoming a LLPC, Kelly graduated with a MS in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology from the University of Florida and was a Certified Athletic Trainer for over 15 years. While working as a collegiate athletic trainer, she worked with many different sports including but not limited to football, volleyball, spirit squad, women’s basketball, and baseball. Most recently, she spent the past eight years working at Michigan State University. This unique background highlights one of Kelly’s specific passions of working with young adults and student-athletes. She values the importance and balance of both physical and mental wellness. Kelly, who is originally from Wisconsin, fills her free time in many different ways. She may be watching or participating in a number of different sports. Or she may be enjoying any variety of music, podcasts, or books. Kelly also values quality time with her family and friends.
TherapistMark is a LLPC, Limited Licensed Professional Counselor. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Family Life Education and his Masters of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. Mark completed his internship at Thrive Counseling Services where he worked with young children, adolescents and adults. While at this internship he conducted play therapy sessions with the young children. He also worked with adolescents and adults processing previous trauma they’d experienced. Mark gained experience in the residential setting with adolescents who were part of the juvenile justice system during his employment at Starr Albion prep. He served as a therapist at Starr and ran DBT informed groups with the adolescents. Mark completed the 2-day and 5-day comprehensive trainings with Josh Smith, DBT Institute of Michigan co-owner. He enjoys working with both adolescents and adults with various challenges which include but are not limited to personality disorders, anxiety, Bi-polar, and trauma related disorders. Mark received his certification on trauma related disorders and Certified Trauma Practitioner-Clinical. Mark is very family oriented and has a strong foundation in his faith. He is a proud husband and father of two children. Mark enjoys helping others and giving in many ways. He regularly donates platelets at the Red Cross.
TherapistMolly Gadola, LLMSW, earned her master’s degree in Social Work with a focus on School Social Work from Grand Valley State University, after completing her bachelor’s degree in Child Development at Central Michigan University. While in graduate school, she interned at the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids, supporting kids and teens in strengthening their communication and emotional regulation skills. After graduation, Molly worked as a school-based therapist in both elementary and high school settings through a community mental health organization. She provided individual, family, home-based therapy, as well as crisis support, always centering her approach on the unique needs of each client and their families. During this time, she also trained in DBT for adolescence in a year-long cohort under psychologist Alec Miller, and has experience leading both online and in-person DBT skills groups for teens and their families, helping them successfully complete the program. Molly expanded her DBT knowledge in a 5-day comprehensive DBT training from DBTIMI owner, Josh Smith. Molly is passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel understood and free to be themselves. She believes in meeting each person with empathy and curiosity while walking alongside and challenging them as they work through trauma, building their tool kits, and moving closer toward a life worth living. Outside of her work, Molly loves going to sporting events (Go Green!), discovering new restaurants and coffee shops, reading manga, and spending time with her dog, Tilly.
TherapistOver 17 years of experience doing DBT in community mental health setting with adults. Multiple trainings in DBT including training as a team leader with 2 DBT teams in 2009 and 2011. Also serves as a Statewide reviewer for DBT Teams across Michigan. Practicing part time since July 2015. Enjoys working with adolescents and adults. Advanced certification in substance abuse treatment and addictions. Other areas of clinical speciality include schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorders.Clinical Therapists, Novi Clinic-
Mental Health TherapistAmanda is a licensed master level mental health counselor who received her MS from Walden University. Before joining our team she gained experience working for a community outpatient mental health facility in Wayne County for over five years, as well as experience in private practice in Wayne and Monroe County for over three years. Amanda has a background in working with youth, adolescents, and adults with a variety of mental health disorders whom many had a co-occurring diagnosis of mental health as well as substance abuse. She has experience in facilitating group therapy and strives to educate clients on DBT skills to assist in improving one’s overall quality of life. Amanda also has a passion to help her clients identify the power of self-love and the positive impacts that loving yourself can create. She further encourages a more holistic approach to therapy including work with the mind, body, and soul. She has completed the Introduction to DBT and Comprehensive DBT Training as well as other trainings from Josh Smith, DBT Institute of Michigan CEO & Founder. When Amanda is not at the office, you can find her at the gym, spending time with her dog, enjoying the outdoors, or with family.
TherapistAustin Ash, who uses he/him and they/them pronouns, is an LLMSW who recently graduated from Wayne State University in 2023. He has previous experience providing counseling services to adults with various mental health and interpersonal concerns. Austin seeks to specialize in working with individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, especially trangender and gender non-conforming individuals. They are also interested in working with those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and non-suicidal self-injury. Aside from DBT, Austin has utilized CBT, motivational interviewing, strengths-based, and client-centered approaches. They have experience working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, queer related issues, gender identity, sexual orientation, interpersonal relationships (familial and romantic), as well as life adjustments. Austin believes that all individuals are unique and strives to create an inclusive and safe therapeutic space for all his clients.
Mental Health TherapistBrad as an LLP/LPC, Limited Licensed Psychologist (Master’s Level) and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Before joining our team he gained experience working for a local community mental health provider (CMH) in Wayne County. There he worked with the severely mentally ill adult population; whom many had a co-occurring diagnosis of mental health as well as substance abuse. Brad was on the CMH’s DBT for three years prior to coming to the Institute where he conducted individual skills counseling/therapy sessions as well as ran groups. He has also received basic and advanced training in prolonged exposure treatment (PET) for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). He received his Master's in Clinical Psychology from Moody Theological Seminary - Michigan. While there Brad interned at the clinic on site as well as spent a semester interning at a local Autism Clinic. Brad has completed the Introduction to DBT and Comprehensive DBT training as well as multiple other trainings in DBT from Josh Smith, DBT Institute of Michigan CEO & Founder. In his spare time Brad likes to spend time with his family outdoors. They like going fishing, canoeing, camping, spending time at his dad’s cabin up north, and going for hikes at local state parks. As a way of destressing Brad likes to go to the gym and burn off his excessive energy as well as putting together Lego Technic sets with his son.
TherapistJennifer is a licensed masters level social worker, receiving her MSW from Wayne State University where she studied clinical social work practice with a concentration in Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Jennifer has 13 years of experience in social work, she has experience working with both youth and adults. Her areas of interest have expanded throughout the years. She has extensive experience in the implementation and operation of evidence-based practices including Assertive Community Treatment, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Crisis Services. Jennifer lives in Inkster with her husband, and their three youngest children. She enjoys vacationing with her family, line dancing, online gaming, being involved in volunteerism, community action, and her children’s many activities.
TherapistKiersten Gutherman, LMSW (she/ her) received her masters in social work from Rutgers University with a concentration in violence against women and children and worked on policy related to Title IX and mental health parity. Kiersten has experience in intake and admissions, outpatient counseling, crisis treatment, group therapy, and school-based services. Most recently, Kiersten led a suicide prevention program in Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties under a Zero Suicide grant. While in this role, she spearheaded a program to distribute free gun locks to community members and was awarded NAMI Michigan’s Advocate of the Year. Kiersten believes that recovery is possible and that everyone can build a life worth living. Kiersten is passionate about mental health, neurodiversity, disability justice, and suicide prevention, especially in the LGBTQIA+ community and survivors of sexual assault. She believes in utilizing lived experience to confront stigma and advocate for change. Outside of work, you can find Kiersten reading, sewing, snuggling her cats, and doing aerial arts. Kiersten is very good at trivia and likes to pretend she is good at karaoke.
PsychologistLauren Ehret, Ph.D., is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who joined the team at the Novi clinic. Dr. Ehret received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. She completed her internship and postdoctoral fellowship at the Ann Arbor VA Medical Center/University of Michigan. Prior to joining the DBTIMI team, Dr. Ehret worked at in residential, inpatient, and PHP/IOP subspecialty programs for adolescents and adults with severe primary mood disorders and comorbidity, especially Borderline Personality Disorder and anxiety disorders in Wisconsin. Dr. Ehret is strongly committed to providing evidence-based treatment. She enjoys working with adolescents and adults of all genders with complex clinical presentations involving severe primary difficulties with depressed mood, mood dysregulation, anxiety, and/or trauma-related difficulties. Dr. Ehret has had the opportunity to learn and gain experience providing evidence-based treatments for many diagnoses and age groups in outpatient, PHP/IOP, Residential, and Inpatient settings, so she is able to address many clients’ needs, including comorbid eating disorders (AN, BN, ARFID, OSFED) and psychosis (including Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders). In addition to her work providing direct patient care, Dr. Ehret has co-facilitated training workshops and provided clinical supervision on evidence-based treatments such as Behavioral Activation for Depression, Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy for PTSD, Exposure and Response Prevention (ExRP) for OCD, and Diagnosis and Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder in Adolescents. She has also collaborated on publication of scientific manuscripts and presented at several national and international conferences on affective neuroscience research – particularly related to Dr. Ehret’s interests in reward learning in depression and fear conditioning in PTSD and the implications individual differences in these processes have for treatment outcomes.
TherapistTanner Blaney, LLMSW (he/him), graduated from Wayne State University in 2023. Before DBTIMI, he has formal experience working in inpatient psychiatric hospitals and substance use clinics serving intersections of unsheltered individuals and varying acuities of mental health and interpersonal concerns. Tanner seeks to continue focusing on serving marginalized communities (both societally and within therapeutic groups) while growing as a clinician in other areas of interest, such as trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and non-suicidal self-injury. Outside of DBT, Tanner has utilized principles of CBT, Harm-Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, and Holistic theory to work from a client-centered, integrative approach. Tanner believes in a therapeutic relationship committed to the wellness of the client's body, mind, and spirit. During his education, Tanner worked on two research projects. The first one focused on rates of violence school-aged youth faced in their familial, romantic, and peer relationships. The second project analyzed the data behind harm-reduction approaches for incarcerated individuals. The research helped to shape Tanner's passion for identifying gaps in service while advocating and working tirelessly to assist. Tanner spends his time outside of work crafting espresso beverages, pretending he can sing karaoke, traveling to new cities, hiking through forests and caves, petting each dog spotted on a neighborhood stroll, and fiercely advocating for the LGBTQ+ community. Tanner is a staunch believer in the importance of self-care from a body-mind-spirit framework for himself.
TherapistTiffany is currently a TLLP, a Temporary Limited Licensed Psychologist (master’s level). With a background rooted in public health, before coming to DBTIMI, Tiffany worked with a non-profit in Detroit, helping young adults with a wide range of social, emotional, and cognitive impairments, and as a research data analyst for a group focused on violence prevention at a major public university. Tiffany received her Master of Science in Clinical Behavioral Psychology from Eastern Michigan University and completed a practicum at a metro-Detroit autism clinic. Her focus is on culturally competent and assent-based care. Tiffany enjoys reading, having coffee with friends, and being a mom and wife. Her biggest passion is learning and supporting others in their continued growth and success.
TherapistVinay Mathews (They/Them) is a limited licensed master social worker (LLMSW). They received their master’s of social work from The University of Michigan. Prior to that, Vinay attended Eastern Michigan University, where they graduated cum laude with a B.S. in interdisciplinary neuroscience. As part of their MSW education, Vinay completed an internship at the DBT Institute, receiving extensive training and supervision in DBT before being hired on as a new clinician. Vinay focuses on a trauma-informed, client-centered, strengths-based approach within the framework of DBT. They believe that each client is the expert in their own experiences, goals, and values. Vinay seeks to work with clients using this expertise to help clients to build a life worth living, no matter where they’re at in that process when they begin treatment. In addition to DBT, Vinay has experience utilizing motivational interviewing techniques as well as a strong research background in behavioral neuroscience and psychology that they apply when using DBT. As a non-binary and neurodivergent therapist, Vinay seeks to specialize in treatment of LGBTQIA+ individuals as well as individuals of all neurodivergencies. They primarily have experience working with young adults and adolescents to treat BPD, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders. In their off time, Vinay likes driving/working on their car, grinding through a long videogame session, or studying up and nerding out on the latest science news. On nice days, you’ll find Vinay out hiking and practicing mindfulness out in nature, or trying to get their friends to do a karaoke night with them.Clinical Therapists, Wyoming/Grand Rapids Clinic-
TherapistAndrea graduated from Central Michigan University in 2016 with her bachelor’s in Family Studies and earned her MSW from Grand Valley State University in 2022. She began her social work career as a case manager/medical social worker at Care Resources PACE program, assisting older adults and their caregivers. She has also interned at the Alzheimer’s Association and Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan. Andrea’s experience and passion are with older adults and their caregivers. She has experience working with individuals with dementia, chronic illnesses, grief and loss, life transitions, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and co-occurring diagnoses. However, she is interested in working with individuals of all ages who experience a wide range of challenges, including but not limited to personality disorders, anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar, and other mood disorders. Andrea is also a proud ally to both the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. Andrea strives to provide person-centered care by meeting clients where they are and working to find skills that will help them improve their quality of life. Along with DBT, Andrea uses other therapeutic techniques: Cognitive behavioral therapy, motivation, and empowerment, strengths-based approach, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness.
DBT Team Lead and PsychologistCatherine O’Neill is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the DBT Team Lead at the Wyoming clinic. She holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University with a concentration in Forensic Psychology. Catherine joined the team in 2017 after finishing a one-year APA-accredited internship with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. She has experience working with adults and adolescents of all genders, in both correctional and outpatient settings, all with a range of diagnoses. She has completed the DBT 5-day comprehensive training and the 2-day skills training. In addition to that, she has been trained in DBT-PTSD, a trauma treatment specific to adults and adolescents with complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, often with multiple diagnoses. Dr. O'Neil has also been trained in DBT-PE a Stage 2 DBT treatment that also treats adults and adolescents with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Along with training in exposure and response prevention, Ex/RxP, a treatment for people diagnosed with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
TherapistDomonique graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work from Grand Valley State University in 2019 and a Masters of Social Work from Western Michigan University in 2022. Domonique has spent the majority of her career working with adolescents and adults experiencing mental health crises. Domonique worked at a psychiatric residential facility for youth and then transitioned to the adult program. Throughout this period of Domonique’s career, Domonique focused on providing clients with a strength based approach to determine the emotional regulation skills they needed to pursue their highest level of independence. After this, Domonique gained further experience at Network180 working at the Access Center and the Crisis Stabilization Unit. Through these efforts, Domonique witnessed first-hand the impact of a positive long standing therapeutic relationship in diverting adults and youth from crisis services. Domonique emphasizes the impact of trauma on the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors we experience today. Domonique has a love of fitness through running, yoga, and weightlifting and utilizes somatic principles throughout her work. Through dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing principles, Domonique aims to provide youth and adults with the knowledge and the skills to obtain and maintain independence and autonomy over their lives and over their emotions.
Outpatient Mental Health TherapistMoana Kutsche, MSW, LMSW earned her MSW at Western Michigan University along with a certificate in Trauma Across the Lifespan. She has completed Comprehensive and Advanced DBT training, as well as Skills Teaching training, with Josh Smith, DBT Institute of Michigan CEO and Founder. She also learned DBT PE trauma treatment from Melanie Harned, who developed the protocol. Moana started her professional life as an attorney and quickly discovered that she enjoyed listening to and validating clients far more than arguing cases. She has a passion for community service and has worked extensively pro bono with underserved populations as well as nonprofits. Moana sought out an internship with the DBT team in the Grand Rapids area, where she particularly enjoyed helping clients learn and apply DBT skills. She also worked with clients in recovery from substance use. Previously, Moana served a year’s internship at an access center, screening clients in acute mental health crises and connecting them with community resources. Moana is dedicated to being a compassionate, steady, and mindful ally to clients, supporting their journeys to a life worth living. Moana is a mother to one adult child and two step-pets and she enjoys helping things grow -- people, animals, and plants.
TherapistWuoi Mach earned his MSW from Grand Valley State University after an initial BSW in Sociology. His social work experiences started in a school setting, working with pre-teens, focusing on producing positive behavior skills. From there, he proceeded to a psychiatric residential facility for teens with a past involving abuse, neglect, and delinquency. He then did a year-long internship at an outpatient clinic doing a variety of individual therapy with adults using CBT, Person-centered, and Existential approaches. Wuoi was drawn to therapy because of his particular sensitivity to the vulnerable. His life experience as a young refugee who was on his own and at the mercy of those dedicated to helping others navigate the challenges that arise. That life of service which he appreciated in those role models, is what motivates him now in his career. Wuoi’s experience as a serious lifelong runner is another strength he takes with him to model persistence and hard work. Wuoi is drawn to each individual’s unique qualities and stories. He is anxious to work with specific situations of struggle to move each person forward toward a healthier way to live.
Operations Team-
Chief Operations OfficerErin joined the Institute at its launch in 2016 after working dilgently 15 years as a collaborator and leader in the civic engagement, higher education and nonprofit sectors. She has experience in board, staff, and volunteer management and participation. Her primary roles at the Institute are to oversee and optomize daily operations, ensuring compliance with contracts, licensing and accredation along with managing the finances. She earned her undergraduate degree in Family and Community Services from Michigan State University while a student-athlete on the women's basketball team. She persued her Master's in Administration with a Leadership concentration from Central Michigan University. When March Madness comes around it'll be hard to find her in the office. In her spare time, she loves to spend time with her family and traveling.
Clinical Interns-
Intern/IOP Co-FacilitatorAngela (she/her) earned her bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychology from Grand Valley State. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Michigan, with a concentration in interpersonal practice. Angela is completing her clinical internship at the DBT Institute, where she also co-facilitates Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) groups. She brings a strong interdisciplinary foundation to her work, aiming to integrate her background in neuroscience with her clinical training in social work. Angela is passionate about mental health advocacy and promoting access to evidence-based care. She is dedicated to empowering individuals through compassionate, strengths-based therapy and plans to continue her professional journey as a therapist following graduation.
InternSam Stiles (she/her) has a Bachelor of Applied Science in American Sign Language Interpreting and is earning her Masters of Social Work at University of Michigan with special interest in Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, & Substance Abuse. She has previously worked as a Sign Language Interpreter for the Ingham County School District, an Assistant Director for the Conservation Corps of Minnesota and Iowa, the Community Outreach Coordinator for End Violent Encounters, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Coordinator for U-M Sparrow Healthcare System. She is passionate about making the community more inclusive, accessable, and equitable for all people. Upon graduation, she hopes to specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, people with disabilities, and survivors of sexual and domestic violence. She deeply values environmentalism and sustainability, and in her free time she likes to walk and bike the river trail, spend time with friends & family, and read.
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