Dr. Irene Kraegel, Licensed Psychologist

Prospective clients ask some important questions (directly or indirectly) during during our initial phone consultations.

“Are you competent enough to help me?”

You need to know that I have the experience and skills to provide good therapy, especially if you’ve had meh experiences in the past.

• I have a doctorate in clinical psychology. I engage in ongoing professional development throughout each year to stay up-to-date on the latest research and recommendations in the field.

• I have actively practiced as a licensed psychologist (in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan) since 2003, after first working as a clinician during my graduate school years (1999-2003). I have over two decades of experience as a therapist, as well as a decade of management experience as Director of the university counseling center at Calvin University.

“Are you interculturally skilled?”

You need to know that the varied components of your intersectional identities (and related experiences) will be seen and honored in therapy.

• I have lived as an American in Uganda on two separate occasions, and these were profound learning experiences for me. I continue to seek out intercultural connections and experiences wherever I go, both for the learning and the joy.

• I obtained extensive training in cross-cultural communication and cultural humility during my university years as a participant in the Human Needs & Global Resources (HNGR) certification program at Wheaton College. I have actively sought ongoing training and formation in the field of intercultural competence throughout my lifetime.

“Do you know how to both listen well and be direct?”

You need to grow, but in a safe environment. You’ve been frustrated by therapists who agree with everything you say, but you don’t want some pushy either.

• The cornerstone of my approach to therapy is deep listening, knowing that we all need to be heard, respected, and believed. I prioritize an environment where you know you’ll be truly cared for. Your wellbeing is my priority.

• I’m consistently described as both gentle and direct in my communication. I am committed to helping my clients live into their belovedness while being active participants in their own healing. I know change is scary, and I won’t make you feel shamed or blamed for the difficulties you’re having. Being human is hard.

“What kind of Christian counselor are you?”

You know Christian counseling means different things to different people, and you’re unsure how I use the term.

• I’m committed to both scientific rigor and deep Christian faith. Neither gets sacrificed in my conceptualization of therapy, as I follow each client’s lead. This is based on my experience as a life-long follower of Christ and a doctoral-level psychologist.

• I’ve developed expertise in Christian mindfulness, writing two books on the topic that provide a helpful window into my particular blend of faith and mental health.

• I help people from a variety of Christian traditions, whatever your specific beliefs, denomination, or politics. I have the experience needed to integrate both Protestant and Catholic practices, based on your desires and needs. My approach begins with respect.

My life experiences and training have prepared me for our next conversation.

You can heal and mend, because God has made you for love. You are invited to put your roots down deeper into the answers that matter as you learn to care well for yourself along the way.