Chris Genther, LMSW

Somatic & IFS Therapist

• Therapist

  Pronouns: He/Him

• Patient Populations: Teens (13+), College Students, Adults

• Education: Walden University

• In network with:

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO

  • Blue Care Network HMO

  • Aetna

Lately, it might feel like you’re moving through life on autopilot—doing everything you’re supposed to do, yet still feeling drained, anxious, or unsure of yourself. You’ve been trying to keep up, but somewhere along the way, it’s started to feel harder to find balance or joy. Maybe you’ve been second-guessing your choices, feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or wondering when things will start to feel “normal” again. Whether you’re navigating a major transition, coping with anxiety or depression, or simply feeling disconnected from the person you want to be, you’re not alone in wanting something to shift.

My goal is to create a space where you can slow down, exhale, and explore what’s really happening beneath the surface—without judgment or pressure to have it all figured out. I bring a blend of IFS, CBT, and somatic-based approaches to our work together, helping you reconnect with your inner strengths and develop practical tools to manage life’s challenges. I meet clients where they are, offering warmth, honesty, and collaboration along the way. Together, we’ll work toward building self-compassion, confidence, and a deeper sense of stability so you can move through life with more clarity and peace.

• Treatment Focus Areas

  • Anger Management

  • Anxiety

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

  • Child Trauma

  • Coping Skills

  • Depression

  • Divorce or Breakup

  • Family Conflict

  • Life Transitions

  • LGBTQ+

  • Men’s Health

  • Peer Relationships

  • Recovering Perfectionists and People Pleasers

  • Self-Esteem

  • Self-Harming

  • Sexual Identity and Orientation

  • Sexual Trauma and Abuse

  • Social Anxiety

  • Stress

  • Suicidal Ideation

  • Teen Violence

  • Trauma/PTSD

• Therapy Modalities

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS)

  • Interpersonal

  • Mindfulness Based CBT

  • Motivational Interviewing

  • Person Centered

  • Psychodynamic

  • Relational

  • Somatic Therapy

  • Strength Based

Get to Know Chris:

• Who is your ideal client?

  I enjoy working with people who value curiosity, authenticity, and a good sense of humor along the way. My ideal clients are open to exploring their inner world without judgment and are looking for a therapist who will meet them where they are. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I’m passionate about providing an affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients, as well as teens (12+) and adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions.

• What's something you wish people knew about therapy or the therapy process?

  I wish people knew they already hold so many of the answers they’re searching for. Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you—it’s about helping you uncover, trust, and sharpen the tools you already have. Think of it as learning how to use your own superpowers a little more intentionally (cape optional).

• Why do you like being a therapist?
  Life can be overwhelming, and at times it’s easy to feel lost in the fog. We’ve all been there. What I love most about being a therapist is getting to walk alongside people as they rediscover their own resilience—the strength that’s been there all along but may have gotten buried under life’s noise. There’s something really special about helping someone reconnect with their sense of power and possibility.

• Besides being a therapist, what do you enjoy in your spare time?

  In my spare time, I’m usually surrounded by the people (and pups) I love most. I have five nephews up in Traverse City, and I’ll take just about any excuse to visit them and soak up some family time. I’m also a big traveler and aspire to see as much of the world as possible. When I’m home, you’ll probably find me playing video games with my partner or snuggled up with our two dogs practicing what I preach and enjoying some self-care time.

• What is your favorite book, podcast or mental health resource?

  I’m a huge fan of Brené Brown and her research on vulnerability and courage. Her work is such a reminder that showing up fully—imperfections and all—is one of the bravest things we can do. Her mix of wisdom, humor, and humanity is something I try to bring into my own work as well.