My name is Jennifer Janssen, and I am a licensed social worker with a degree from the University of Michigan School of Social Work. I have advanced training in Internal Family Systems (also called “parts work”), Emotionally Focused Therapy for relationships, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy for the treatment of trauma. My focus is on addressing complex developmental, relational, and structural trauma to heal anxiety, depression and relationship distress.

Much of my work involves experiential modes of therapy, in which I help you have new experiences of connection, groundedness and care in session that you can then practice recreating in your daily life. I help clients approach difficult sensations with curiosity, bring new resources to bear, and integrate real-time transformations in how they feel and engage with others. 

Prior to entering social work, I participated in a volunteer form of counseling that was tuned in on how emotion is felt in the body. I also knew from my own enjoyment of swimming and dance that physical movement is a powerful way to change how you think and feel. This experience led me to pursue training in a somatic form of therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. 

While working with individuals who were in distress in their relationships at the Women’s Center of Southeast Michigan, I found myself wishing that I was working with both partners in therapy. This desire to effectively help people by working directly with their partnership or marriage led me to Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). The EFT model is a powerful roadmap for strengthening bonds. EFT facilitates new experiences during sessions and growth that continues well beyond when therapy has ended. Now, I weave together the powerful practices of Internal Family Systems (IFS) with Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to facilitate both secure internal attachment as well as secure attachment between partners. It is a joy for me to share in partners’ journeys as they do the powerful work of tending to their hardest places and shifting into a place of mutual support and increased intimacy. 

Whether the challenges you are facing stem from difficulties in close relationships, finding yourself stuck in old patterns that feel limiting, or living in a society that is not designed to support and affirm you, I would be glad to work with you on your healing journey.