finally, a group of therapists who
just get you.
hi there! we offer psychotherapy and coaching services in huntington woods, mi.
we're all about authenticity, connection, and making sure therapy is what you want it to be.
We often think of people-pleasing as kindness or selflessness, but at its core, it’s usually about self-protection. Many people-pleasing behaviors come from a desire to avoid conflict, rejection, or the discomfort of being misunderstood. It’s less about making others happy and more about keeping ourselves emotionally safe.
People-pleasing can be a learned response, rooted in childhood experiences where love, safety, or acceptance felt conditional. Saying “yes” when we mean “no,” overextending ourselves, or suppressing our needs can feel like the safest option when we’ve internalized that our worth is tied to how useful, agreeable, or easygoing we are.
The truth is, this coping strategy can create more disconnection than connection. When we constantly prioritize others’ comfort over our own truth, we lose touch with our authentic selves. Healing begins when we start to tolerate the discomfort of being honest, setting boundaries, and letting go of the need to be liked in order to feel safe. 🩷
Do you agree? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
#PeoplePleaserRecovery #TraumaInformedHealing #InnerChildHealing #EmotionalSafety #TherapyTalk #PeoplePleasing #AuthenticLiving #SetBoundaries #PeoplePleaserToPowerful #PermissionToBeYou #HealingJourney #MentalHealthMatters #SelfGrowth #KnowYourWorth #BreakTheCycle
Body image support - our acceptance approach ✨🫶🏼
Whether or not you’re navigating challenges with food, body image struggles are something most (if not all) of us face! What matters most is finding tools that feel supportive to you. These are a few tricks we like! What practices have been helpful for you? Share below!!
#DetroitTherapist
#DetroitMentalHealth
#DetroitWellness
#TherapyInDetroit
#MichiganTherapist
#BodyImageSupport
#BodyImageHealing
#EDRecoverySupport
Let’s call this reel a ✨life hack✨ and give each other some free insights!!
What has your therapist told you that changed your perspective, or still resonates until this day? Drop it in the comments ❤️🩹
#TherapyWisdom #BestTherapyAdvice #WordsThatHeal #MentalHealthMatters #TherapistQuotes #HealingJourney #TherapyTalk #MindsetShift #EmotionalWellness #Therapistsofinstagram #SelfGrowth #InnerWork #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingWords #SelfCompassion
Meet Your Inner System!! (We all have one!)
Did you know we all have different “parts” within us, each with its own role? Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy helps us understand and heal these parts so we can feel more whole and balanced.
❤️🩹 The Protector – The part that keeps you safe by avoiding discomfort. (Ex: “I always stay busy so I don’t have to feel anxious.”)
🔥 The Firefighter – The part that reacts when emotions get too overwhelming. (Ex: “I binge-watch TV or scroll for hours when I feel stressed.”)
💔 The Wounded Inner Child (Exile) – The part carrying deep pain from past experiences. (Ex: “I’m not good enough” or “People always leave me.”)
🌱 The Self – Your core, compassionate, wise, and healing presence. (Ex: “I can listen to my parts with kindness and curiosity.”)
When we connect with and understand our parts, we create space for healing.
Interested in IFS? Contact us to schedule with one of our therapists ✨
#InternalFamilySystems #IFStherapy #PartsWork #HealingJourney #Therapistsofinstagram
This & a therapist who finally gets you 🤍
We love a cozy space, and are so thankful to share it with you in your moments of vulnerability and healing. Come as you are, and stay as long as you need. ❤️🩹
Contact us in our bio regarding scheduling! We’re excited to connect with you.
#detroit #detroittherapy #therapistsofinstagram #therapy #traumatherapy
Looking for support? Our therapists have immediate openings for trauma, eating disorders, grief, ADHD, and LGBTQ+ affirming care. You don’t have to navigate this alone—we’re here to support you in your journey 🩷
Visit our website for more info and to book a session today!
www.alyssajessetherapy.com
#TherapyForAll #MentalHealthMatters #LGBTQAffirming #TraumaTherapy
Things we’ve said as therapists: Alyssa’s edition!!
What insights have you heard from your therapist that have resonated with you? Drop them in the comments (it’s like sharing therapy secrets!!) 🤪⬇️
Want to work with one of our trauma therapists? Click the link in our bio to connect ✨
#therapist #detroittherapy #therapistsofinstagram
Hello clients, and fellow ED clinicians!
Our new, 6-week virtual coaching group (18+) is designed to provide structured support, skill-building, and a sense of community outside of individual therapy.
Led by a Certified Recovery Coach & Eating Disorder Therapist, this program offers a safe, non-clinical space to strengthen your recovery journey.
🤍 What’s Included:
✔ Weekly 1.5-hour group coaching sessions
✔ A private 30-minute session with each facilitator
✔ A PDF workbook with recovery-focused tools & resources
✔ Audio recordings of sessions for easy review
✔ A HIPAA-compliant group chat for connection & peer support
🤍 You’ll Learn How To:
✅ Separate your voice from the eating disorder’s influence
✅ Develop a healthier relationship with body image & self-worth
✅ Build emotional literacy skills to process feelings in a healthy way
✅ Use recovery strategies for a balanced approach to food
🗓 Program Details:
📍 Virtual – Open to all states!
🕗 Mondays at 8:00 PM EST (Starting in May!)
💰 $135/Week – Payment plans available
⚡ Limited spots available!
Ready to take the next step? Sign up today at www.alyssajessetherapy.com/events
📢 Disclaimer: This is a coaching program, not psychotherapy or a substitute for medical or mental health treatment. It is designed to provide additional support alongside professional therapy.
✨ Meet Anu, our newest therapist at Alyssa Jesse Therapy Group! ✨
With a warm and welcoming vibe and years of experience, Anu specializes in supporting clients navigating eating disorders, grief, and anxiety. Whether you’re working through loss, healing your relationship with food, or managing anxious thoughts, she’s here to provide a safe and understanding space 🩷
Anu also offers family and couples therapy, support for ADHD, and those suffering with chronic illnesses.
Ready to start your journey? Book a session today by visiting the link in our bio ✨
Some examples of how I use self soothing techniques throughout my work day! Self soothing techniques help us regulate our emotions, stay grounded, and help our nervous system feel at ease. If you know me, you’ve probably heard my take on self soothing: how we usually forget how to soothe as we transition from kids to adults! That’s why it’s important to try different options to see what your nervous system enjoys in this stage of your life ✨
Some other forms of self soothing that I like:
• Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR): Tense and release each muscle group in your body, starting from your feet and moving upward, to reduce physical tension and promote relaxation.
• Grounding through the Five Senses: Focus on your environment using the “5-4-3-2-1” technique—name 5 things you see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you hear, 2 things you smell, and 1 thing you taste. You can also use this as a tool to keep your environment soothing by activating your senses!
• Bilateral Stimulation (BLS): Engage in rhythmic, alternating movements (e.g., tapping your left and right shoulders or knees) or listen to audio that alternates sounds between ears to help soothe the nervous system and foster emotional regulation.
• Diaphragmatic Breathing: Practice slow, deep breaths by inhaling through your nose for a count of four, holding for four, and exhaling for six, focusing on expanding your belly rather than your chest.
What are your favorite self soothing skills? 🩷
#mitherapy #therapy #therapistsofinstagram #detroittherapy #traumatherapy #royaloaktherapy #mentalhealth
Setting boundaries and making adjustments in your relationships can be hard. All relationships in life, regardless of their relation to you, deserve mutual respect and appropriate boundaries.
Thinking about setting boundaries with someone you love? Some examples of ways to start:
1. “I need to let you know that I can’t accept being spoken to in that way. It’s hurtful and it’s not something I’m willing to tolerate anymore.”
2. “I value our relationship, but I need you to respect my boundaries. I’m not available for discussions about [topic] right now. Please respect that.”
3. “I understand you may have strong feelings, but I need to take a step back from this conversation. I’m not going to engage if it becomes disrespectful or hurtful.”
4. “I need to take care of my well-being, so I won’t be participating in [situation or event] this time. It’s not easy for me, but I’m doing what’s best for me right now. I ask that you respect my decisions.”
5. “I understand your concerns, but I need you to trust that I’m making the best choices for myself. I would appreciate it if you would stop questioning my decisions.”
6. “I’m not comfortable discussing that anymore. If you keep pushing the issue, I’m going to limit my interactions. I can’t continue to engage with disrespect or negativity.”
Prioritizing your well-being and emotional health isn’t selfish - it’s necessary; and more important than “keeping the peace”.
Also, shout out to @leltherapy who shared something similar this week about conditional/unconditional love! 🩷
Ya gotta ✨feeeeeel it to heal it✨
The Rain Technique is your emotional umbrella when the storm feels too strong! Here’s how it works:
R – Recognize what’s happening inside you. Name the emotion without judgment.
A – Allow the feeling to exist. Don’t push it away—just let it be.
I – Investigate with curiosity. Where does this emotion sit in your body? What’s it trying to tell you?
N – Nurture yourself with compassion. Speak to yourself like a friend.
Emotions don’t define you—they just pass through, like rain!
🩷 give this technique a try and let us know your thoughts!
#mitherapy #mitherapists #traumatherapy #emotions
Unfortunately, we recognize there aren’t very many words right now that bring comfort. We just want to acknowledge that we are here, feeling along side of you.
Please practice self care as much as you can in the coming weeks (and always). Disconnect from the news if you need to, nourish your body, find gentle movement, and connect with others. 🩷 Sending love to everyone navigating tough emotions today.
Let’s understand our emotions - what are they REALLY trying to tell us?! ✨
Emotions are powerful messengers – they aren’t always random feelings that come and go. Each emotion has a purpose, helping us navigate life’s ups and downs, connect with others, and understand ourselves more deeply. 🌱💖
🔹 Anger: Protects our boundaries and reminds us to stand up for what matters.
🔹 Sadness: Encourages healing and reflection, creating space to process and grow.
🔹 Guilt: Guides us toward making things right, keeping us aligned with our values.
🔹 Anxiety: Warns us of danger or a challenge.
🔹 Loneliness: Signals when we’re disconnected or when we have unmet needs.
🔹 Joy: Sparks gratitude and helps us connect with what truly fulfills us.
Swipe to learn more about the messages behind emotions. Next time a feeling surfaces, pause and ask, “What is this trying to tell me?” 💭 Embracing each emotion with curiosity can help you understand yourself on a new level!
I might want to try therapy, but I have nooooo idea where to start!
Sound familiar? So many people feel anxious to begin therapy because they feel they don’t know a good starting point to begin, or what they “should/want” to be working on. These are some general ideas to get you thinking - what can I bring up in an intake session?!
If you’re still considering, you can always request a consultation before scheduling a session to get the therapist’s perspective on some ideas for things to work toward!
Ready to jump in?! Give us a call or an email - we have therapists ready to support you wherever you’re at. 🩷
#mitherapy #therapy #detroittherapy #royaloaktherapy #birminghamtherapy #therapistsofinstagram
Needing additional support outside of therapy? Meet Taylor, our recovery coach!
Recovery is possible, and it starts with support that truly understands. Our personalized coaching services are here to guide you every step of the way—towards healing, self-acceptance, and a healthier relationship with food.
✨ What We Offer:
• Compassionate, one-on-one coaching
• Goals, assignments, and support tailored to you
• A safe space to share and grow
Take the first step today. 💚 Click the link in our bio to learn more and schedule your free consultation!
Somatic reflection prompts ✨
Ever heard of somatic therapy? It’s all about tuning into your body to heal your mind. Our bodies hold onto emotions, stress, and trauma in ways we don’t always realize. 😅 By connecting with our physical selves, we can release that tension and find some serious inner peace!
Think of it as your body’s way of saying, “Hey, I’ve got some stuff to work through, too!” So whether it’s through therapy, movement, breathwork, or just a good stretch, take some time to listen to your body—it’s got a lot to say! 💛
Interested in somatic therapy? Our therapists are ready to support you in helping you get reconnected to your body and emotions! Click the link in our bio to inquire about scheduling!
#SomaticTherapy #MindBodyConnection #EmotionalWellness
Ever wonder why we care so much about what others think? It’s totally normal! We’re social creatures by nature, and a little bit of validation from others can feel pretty great, right? 😌 But here’s the thing: It’s not about seeking approval—it’s about connection. We all want to belong, to be understood, to know we’re not alone. 💛
So next time you catch yourself worrying about someone else’s opinion, remember this: It’s okay to care, just don’t forget to care about your own thoughts, too. You’ve got to be your own biggest fan, too 🤪
#selflove #selfcare #therapy #therapistsofinstagram #traumatherapy #selfacceptance #birminghammitherapy #mitherapy
In today’s fast-paced world, society often conditions us to prioritize everything but ourselves. We’re taught to chase success, meet expectations, and stay busy—leaving little room for self-care. But in the pursuit of “doing it all,” we forget the most important person: ourselves. It’s okay to pause, breathe, and take a moment to care for your well-being. You deserve rest, kindness, and time to recharge. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Let’s remind each other that self-care is not selfish; it’s necessary. 🩷
Can you relate? Trauma can significantly impact people-pleasing tendencies in several ways:
1. Fear of abandonment: Trauma can lead to a deep-seated fear of abandonment, causing us to prioritize others’ needs to avoid rejection or abandonment.
2. Need for control: Traumatic experiences can make us feel powerless, leading us to try to control our environment and relationships through people-pleasing.
3. Difficulty setting boundaries: Trauma can make it challenging to establish and maintain healthy boundaries, leading to overcommitting and overextending ourselves.
4. Fear of conflict: Traumatic experiences can make us avoid conflict at all costs, leading us to prioritize others’ needs to maintain peace.
5. Low self-worth: Trauma can lead to negative self-talk, low self-esteem, and a belief that our own needs and desires are not valuable or important.
6. Hyper-vigilance: Trauma can lead to a state of constant alertness, making us more attuned to others’ needs and expectations.
7. Lack of self-care: Trauma can lead to neglect of our own needs and prioritization of others’ needs, exacerbating people-pleasing tendencies.
Through various ways (in and out of session), we can address these underlying patterns and break free of our obligation to others - and give ourselves peace! 🩷
uncomfortable vs. unsafe - what is the difference?? because boy, do they feel similar at times! (thanks, trauma... *eye roll*)
knowing the difference can allow us to feel empowered in our growth, build confidence, and increase our distress tolerance over time!
what signals do you find let you know you are uncomfortable vs. unsafe? drop in the comments!
#detroittherapy #mitherapy #traumatherapy #therapistsofinstagram #therapy #traumaresponses #sittingwithdiscomfort
Hi friends! We’d like to share a new virtual support group beginning in April - facilitated by Alyssa! 🫶🏼
You might be a good fit for this group if:
💕 you’re looking to connect with others
✨ you’d benefit from encouragement from others who share similar experiences
💕 you want to learn new ways of coping and ways to foster connection in your life
Registration is open now - click the link in our bio! 🩷
#detroittherapy #detroitgroup #virtualsupport #mentalhealth #makingfriendships #makingconnections
Ever feel like you're not being productive in session because you didn't have a *HUGE* discovery? You're totally fine! Therapy is built off of several moments over processing over time, so even on the days where you leave thinking "uh, what did I just talk about for 50 minutes?" ...you're still doing the work.
Some benefits of "non-aha-moment-sessions":
❤️ building your relationship with your therapist
❤️ giving your nervous system a break
❤️ allowing yourself space to process other events/emotions
❤️ building trust with yourself (ex: I know I ~can~ visit these emotions when I want/need to, but today that's not what I want/need)
❤️ giving more space to have the "aha" moments to settle in
You're doing great, friends. Keep up the good work!
#detroitmitherapy #detroittherapist #therapistsofinstagram #birminghamtherapy #traumatherapy #edtherapy #therapy #mentalhealth
Meeting the humans behind the therapy 101 🫶🏼
Our practice is built on the foundation of finding genuine connection with your therapist, so you can experience the full benefits of therapy! Even if that connection is not with us, we will help you connect with some other therapists who might be a better fit. ❤️
Joe & Lindy are accepting new clients with immediate availability! To see their specialties and to learn more about them, visit the link in our bio ✨
Help us get to know you!! Drop one of your responses to the prompts in the comments below ⬇️
#detroittherapy #traumatherapy #adhdtherapy #lgbtqia #therapistsofinstagram
Emotional triggers are the universe’s way of saying “hey! let’s pay attention to this please”! 💫 When we approach with curiosity, our triggers can be a helpful source of information we may need to learn about ourselves.
Triggers however, can be complex and these examples may not resonate with you, or ring true to your experience. Thats okay! Sometimes working backwards from a trigger can be most helpful in identifying what could use a little more TLC. For some suggestions on how to do this, see the last slide! 🩷
Cheers to holding space for the uncomfy parts of life!
#therapy #detroittherapy #therapistsofinstagram #traumatherapy #emotionaltriggers #mentalhealth
Hi y'all! We wanted to introduce you to Lindy, one of our favorite trauma and holistic healing experts!
Lindy offers specialized modalities that are *FINALLY* getting the recognition they deserve (two that come to mind are IFS and somatic experiencing, yay!) and is now accepting new adult clients.
To learn more about Lindy or to inquire about scheduling, visit the link in our bio to learn more! <3
#birminghammitherapy #therapist #therapistsofinstagram #detroittherapist #detroittherapy #traumatherapy #anxiety #anxietytherapy #lgtbq #emdrtherapy #ifstherapy #reiki
It can be incredibly confusing to differentiate between your true self and the critical voice in your head. Believe it or not, our inner critic is actually trying to protect us!
The problem is, our inner critic doesn't usually make us feel *great*, so we sometimes need to draw attention to the way our inner critic speaks to us, and make adjustments as needed. Becoming curious about our internal dialogue is a perfect way to begin challenging some of the painful thoughts we experience in our day to day lives.
Contact us by clicking the link in our bio to schedule with one of our therapists today! 💕
#detroittherapy #detroitmentalhealth #mentalhealth #therapistsofinstagram #innercritic #selfcompassion #birminghammi
Trauma responses can have a major impact on how we navigate conflict and engage with others, but by recognizing our own behavioral patterns, we can gain valuable insight and develop new skills. This self-awareness empowers us to break free from a constant state of protection and take proactive steps towards cultivating more positive and healthy relationships.
Our trauma specialists are ready to jump in and be curious with you about your experiences! Our practice is built on the foundation of connecting with a therapist who you feel is genuine and relatable. Contact us by clicking the link in our bio to learn more 😌
#traumatherapy #relationshiptherapy #traumatherapist #therapistsofinstagram #birminghamtherapist #detroittherapist #detroittherapy #traumahealing #mentalhealth #recovery
Do you ever leave therapy thinking "how do I SOMEHOW feel MORE (insert uncomfy feeling)?" ....because, same.
It is actually *very* normal to leave therapy feeling exhausted, confused, or almost like you have an "emotional hangover" (as Alyssa often references!)
These feelings are not a reflection of your progress, however are typically a signal that you touched on something that is either really significant, needs some more attention and care, or maybe that you visited something you haven't in a long time (or ever)!
The key is to continue being curious about your experiences and reflections in therapy, and how they relate to you throughout the week. You're doing the work. <3
#mitherapist #birminghammi #therapistsofinstagrams #therapy #emotions #reactionstotherapy #traumatherapy #bpdtherapy #edtherapy #lgbtqtherapy
Navigating difficult emotions can feel intimidating, but can also feel empowering once we feel in control of them! When we allow ourselves to sit with our emotions and let them pass rather than push them away, we show our brains and bodies immense compassion and validation. If you pause right now.. are your emotions trying to tell you something? Do they need to be felt? Don’t feel scared - you’ve got this 🤩💕
#therapistsofinstagram #dbtridethewave #mitherapist #virtualtherapist #dbttherapist #emotionfocused
Meet the heart behind the healing ✨ Thrilled to *formally* introduce one of our amazing therapists, Joe! 🌱
Joe is ready to walk alongside you with a gentle touch and empathetic ear. Joe’s passion for connection and gift of guidance offers a welcoming space to explore healing! 💕
Joe is licensed in Michigan, California, and New York and is currently accepting new clients. Evening and weekend hours are available! ✨
Read more about Joe’s incredible experience on our website. Click the link in our bio 💕
#mitherapist #nytherapist #catherapist #mentalhealth #therapistsofinstagram #therapy
Do you find yourself struggling with body image more when challenges arise? It *could* be your brain’s way of trying to do a few things:
🤍 regain a sense of control or stability
🤍 trying to “solve a problem” with promise that by doing so, your current situation will become easier
🤍 numb out other strong emotions
🤍 distract from tough situations or emotions
When this happens, we can gently remind ourselves that our bodies (and minds!) deserve love and care as they navigate us through our challenges daily. There are other ways to get our needs met other than using our bodies as the scapegoat.
www.alyssajessetherapy.com
#bodyimage #edrecovery #therapy #mentalhealth
View more