Courtney Thurston LPC, ATR
She/Her/Hers
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Art Therapist (ATR) in Michigan.
I focus on providing practical support and tools to help you strengthen your mental health. I work with you to set goals, manage challenges, and build lasting emotional well-being.
Credentials & Educational Background
Education
Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling & Art Therapy from Wayne State University
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Visual Arts from the University of Olivet (formerly Olivet College)
Credentials
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Michigan
Registered Art Therapist (ATR)
I’m based in Jackson, MI, offering virtual therapy to clients throughout the state.
I have worked in therapy offices located in Wayne, Northville, and Ann Arbor.
Guiding Principles in My Therapy Practice
Psychoeducation
I share easy-to-understand information, recommend helpful books, and provide resources that empower clients to take charge of their well-being.
Therapeutic Relationship
I regularly check in to make sure we’re a good fit and that you’re getting what you need. This may even mean referring you to another therapist who is a better match.
Honoring Diveristy
I have experience working with clients in the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities and strive to honor each person’s unique lived experience. I work towards staying up to date on research related to inclusion, mental health diagnosis, and treatment to provide informed care.
Curiosity
Curiosity is a great way to learn more about the world and ourselves. An important part of the therapy work is practicing being curious and mindful of our thoughts, feelings, reactions, and body sensations.
Wondering About Therapy with me?
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I take a person-centered approach, which means we’ll collaborate on a plan that fits your goals and needs.
I often use:
CBT & REBT – to understand how thoughts, emotions, and actions connect
Mindfulness, DBT, and art therapy – to process life events, manage stress, and build coping skills
We’ll also explore boundaries with work, family, and relationships, since these play a big role in overall mental health.
I’m always continuing to grow as a therapist, adding new approaches and tools to best support clients working through anxiety, burnout, ADHD, and emotional wellness.
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Sometimes you don’t know if a therapist is the right fit until you meet them. That’s why I offer a free 10-minute consultation call so you can get a sense of my style and ask any questions.
I usually encourage clients to try 3–4 sessions with a therapist before making a decision. Therapy is a relationship, and it can take a little time to know if it feels supportive and helpful.
Here are a few questions to consider when deciding if a therapist is a good fit for you:
Format: If this therapist only offers virtual appointments, do you feel comfortable with online counseling, or would in-person sessions work better for you?
Finances & access: Does this therapist accept your insurance or offer a fee you can afford long-term so you can attend sessions consistently?
Comfort & trust: In the consultation or early sessions, do you feel safe, listened to, and understood?
Expertise: Does the therapist have experience with your concerns (like anxiety, burnout, or ADHD)? If not, are they open to learning alongside you in a way that still feels supportive?
Finding the right therapist is about more than credentials—it’s about whether you feel comfortable and confident working together.
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You can expect a collaborative, supportive approach that focuses on your needs and helps address any barriers to reaching your goals. I often use psychoeducation to fill in gaps about mental health and build practical skills, so you feel informed and confident about your treatment.
Sessions are a safe space to process life events, manage stress, and build coping skills. Therapy is a partnership—you set the priorities, and I provide guidance, tools, and strategies to help you make meaningful changes.
I’m also honest about my expertise and will recommend other providers if I think a different approach could better support you. My goal is to help you get the care that fits your unique needs.
A little extra about me.
Things I am currently obsessed with…
my dog
psych thrillers books & non-fiction
a consistent movement practice
finding art in every day life
Wondering if we would be a good therapy fit?
Schedule a 10-minute consultation call before your first appointment.
Land Acknowledgment
I live and work on the land of the Anishinabewaki, Meškwahki·aša·hina, Bodwéwadmi, and Peoria peoples, known colonially as Jackson, Michigan. I am grateful to the elders for their stewardship of this land. This acknowledgment is a small step towards healing and decolonization. I encourage you to learn about the land you inhabit using Native Land Digital.