Laurie Krolikowski, LCSW

The problem, of course, is that most of us don’t know what that first step should be. I didn’t venture into my early adult years knowing what I wanted to do, and it took time for me to find my path towards becoming a therapist. My journey involved many challenges in both my personal life and my professional life. But taking this path was by far the best decision I ever made; as a therapist, I feel I have finally found my place in the world.

My background is comprehensive. I started my career in a hospital-based addiction program. There, I provided education to patients on addictions and ways to manage their sobriety. Later, I transitioned to working at a local Head Start program, where I was able to assist families with medical needs and help out with literacy and family programs. I loved being able to work with the parents to help them succeed so their children could thrive. After my time there, I was employed as a Health Coach, where I helped clients achieve their goals and develop habits that improved their overall health and wellbeing. And at my last job before I started my own practice, I worked in palliative care at a local hospital, where I assisted patients and families facing chronic health issues and end of life. I learned a lot about dealing with grief and bereavement issues at the time.

When I started my own career I was a single parent raising two boys, and the obstacles were countless. But I have always had a passion for helping people; I hope that my own personal experiences can help me guide others through the challenges they are facing. I feel that my role as a therapist is to help my clients navigate their life’s journey, and to assist in empowering them to learn new ways of coping in order to become happier and healthier individuals.

Therapy is a process, and it takes time. Therapy sessions may not make you feel great initially—and that’s because you’re talking about very emotional, personal issues. But if you trust the process, it can be an incredible experience. It can challenge you to push your comfort zone, and give you new insights that will redefine your perspective. 

The greatest joy of my life has been to help people just like you find peace and happiness through this process. I hope we can take this first step together.

When I am not working I enjoy being outside, exercise, yoga, kettlebells and walking my dog Loki.  I also enjoy visiting my son’s in the Pacific Northwest and Northern Michigan area along with hiking and camping. 

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.