Renee Sturm

LMSW - Ann Arbor Therapist

Renee Sturm

Renee Sturm

LLMSW Ann Arbor Therapist

Specializations

Accepting new patients Offering virtual and in-person Appointments in ann arbor, mi

Philosophy and Therapeutic Approaches

Strengths-based psychotherapy is an approach to counseling and therapy that emphasizes an individual’s strengths, resources, and capabilities, rather than focusing on their problems, weaknesses, or deficits. This therapeutic approach is rooted in positive psychology and aims to foster a sense of empowerment and resilience in clients. I believe therapy is tailored to the individual, recognizing their unique strengths, experiences, and goals. The therapist collaborates with the client to identify and utilize these strengths in the therapeutic process.

Mindfulness therapy, also known as mindfulness-based therapy, is an approach to psychotherapy that incorporates mindfulness practices to help individuals increase their awareness and acceptance of the present moment. This form of therapy is used to treat a variety of psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and chronic pain.Some of the key practices and activities we might incorporate in therapy are present moment awareness, non-judgmental attitude, acceptance, body scans, breathwork and meditation. Mindfulness therapy is a versatile and effective approach that helps individuals develop a greater awareness of their present-moment experiences and respond to them with acceptance and compassion. By integrating mindfulness practices into therapy, individuals can achieve improved mental health, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely-used and evidence-based form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is based on the concept that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and that changing negative thoughts and maladaptive behaviors can lead to improvements in emotional well-being and functioning. In addition to the cognitive and behavioral interventions, CBT also utilizes psychoeducation and skill building.

Specialties

I offer a warm and empathetic demeanor creating a safe and supportive environment for clients. I am are particularly skilled at helping individuals develop practical strategies to manage symptoms, improve coping skills, and enhance overall quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with persistent worry, panic attacks, or feelings of hopelessness, I am here to support you on your journey to recovery.

My expertise lies in addressing performance anxiety, stress management, injury recovery, and the unique psychological demands of competitive sports. My background is heavily rooted in working with professional athletes struggling with a combination of anxiety, substance abuse, performance anxiety, injury recovery, to name a few. Combining evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based techniques with sport-specific strategies, I work to help athletes enhance their mental game and overcome obstacles. I focus on building resilience, improving focus, and fostering a growth mindset, enabling athletes to perform at their best both on and off the field.

Background

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from Ferris State University where I played basketball for 4 years. I hold aMaster’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from University of Michigan. In addition to my work as a therapist, I am also a case manager for retired professional athletes. I am passionate about athletics and most of my free time is spent lifting, competing and watching sports. As an athlete myself, I have embraced many of the challenges that my clients face. I wholeheartedly believe that anyone and everyone can benefit from therapy at various points throughout their life.If you are ready to take the next step in your overall wellness, I am eager to start building a meaningful therapeutic relationship and create a space for you where you feel safe, valued, and respected. Please reach out – I am looking forward to the opportunity to work alongside you as you invest in your mental health!

Start your wellness journey today!