Shelby Vandenbussche
COUNSELING INTERN
She/Her
Locations: East Lansing Office
Specialities:
Anxiety
Depression
Trauma
Eating Disorders
Substance Use Disorders
Self-Harm
Works With: Adults
Email: shelbyv@rootedcounselingmi.com
Hey there,
MY DECISION TO BECOME A THERAPIST STEMMED FROM MY DRIVE TO REDUCE THE STIGMA SURROUNDING MENTAL HEALTH AND TO CLOSE THE IMAGINED GAP BETWEEN ‘US’ AND ‘THEM.’
Too often, people are defined by a diagnosis rather than seen as whole individuals. I believe there is no meaningful divide between ‘us’ and ‘them’. Mental health challenges are part of the human experience, not a marker of someone's worth.
In my work with you, I strive to approach our time together with respect, empathy, and understanding, as we explore your concerns and goals. I hope to create an environment for you that feels welcoming and accepting, free of judgment and stigmatization. I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, substance use disorders, personality disorders, self harm, and eating disorders. My approach draws from Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)-informed practices, while emphasizing cultural humility, empowerment, and acceptance.
More importantly than any modality, I strive to create a therapeutic relationship that is authentic and safe, as I believe that a genuine connection is the foundation for meaningful growth and lasting change. Healing flourishes when you feel truly seen, heard, and accepted. I hope to support you as we build the tools, insight, and confidence to effectively foster growth, healing, and self-compassion. In our work together, we will draw from your strengths to reach your aspirations and create opportunities for learning and development. I hope to reinforce that everyone has significant and unique strengths that can be built upon and that our differences are something worth noticing and celebrating, recognizing that there is no inferiority gap between ‘us’ and ‘them’.
Outside of work, you can find me at the gym weightlifting or out for a run. I also love spending my time hanging out with friends, going for walks, shopping, reading, listening to music, and watching sports.
Education: I am currently in my second and last year at Michigan State University to obtain my Master's in Social Work. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from Purdue University.
