Emily VanderPlas, MSW, LMSW
About Emily
Emily is a Licensed Master of Social Work with a passion for serving both children and families. Emily has over 6 years of experience working with children and families in the mental health and child welfare fields both in home-based and outpatient settings.
With her diverse experience, Emily is able to tailor the therapy experience to fit individual needs by using a variety of evidence-based therapy methods including play therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Emily is fluent in Spanish and English and has experience working with families in both languages. Using a client-centered approach, Emily believes in meeting families where they are in terms of the therapeutic process and in drawing upon inherent strengths to empower families and individuals.
Additionally, Emily places a high priority on working together with her clients in order to establish a trusting and collaborative relationship focused on creating long-term healing.
Contact Emily: 616-773-2908 ext 110
EMAIL: emily.vanderplas@ihcwestmichigan.com
Education
- Calvin College, Bachelor’s in Social Work 
- Grand Valley State University, Master’s in Social Work 
Therapeutic Approaches
- Solution Focused Brief therapy 
- Cognitive Behavioral therapy 
- Play therapy 
- Person-Centered approaches 
Treatment Interests
- Children, Adolescents, Adults, and Families 
- Play therapy 
- Anxiety 
- Depression 
- Self-harm 
- Behavior Concerns 
- Trauma 
- Stress management 
- Anger management 
- Healthy coping skills 
- Parenting 
- Attachment/bonding 
- Communication issues 
Memberships:
- NASW (National Association of Social Workers) 
 
                        