Counselor at Mala Child & Family Institute in Plymouth, MI - Ariella Blackburn LLPC

Ariella Blackburn LLPC

Professional Counselor

Plymouth & Online

Welcome! I'm Ariella Blackburn, and I'm passionate about working with individuals of all ages, helping them navigate life's challenges with a playful, artistic, and humanistic approach. My focus is on empowering you to understand your authentic self, so you can become your own best guide.

I specialize in supporting those whose brains work differently, those who chronically self-neglect and put themselves last, those who are their own hardest critics, and those struggling in their relationships. By fostering self-awareness and self-compassion, we can unlock your potential and help you live a more fulfilling and balanced life.

For my pediatric clients, I use play as a powerful tool to build rapport and create a safe, engaging environment for exploration and growth. I also offer parent coaching, providing practical support and strategies to enhance your parenting journey and better understand your child's unique needs.

In our sessions, you'll find a warm, inviting, and empathetic space where your voice is heard, and your experiences are valued. Together, we'll explore creative and personalized ways to address your concerns, helping you thrive and find joy in your everyday life.

I love incorporating art, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and executive function coaching in my work with clients because these approaches offer powerful, multifaceted tools for healing and growth. Art allows clients to express themselves creatively and non-verbally, providing insight and relief from emotional burdens. DBT equips clients with practical skills to manage emotions, improve relationships, and cultivate mindfulness, fostering resilience and emotional regulation. Executive function coaching addresses essential life skills such as organization, time management, and goal setting, empowering clients to navigate daily challenges with confidence and competence. Together, these methods create a holistic, engaging, and effective therapeutic experience that supports clients in discovering their strengths and achieving lasting positive change.

Lastly, I run the DBT groups for middle school and high school students at the Plymouth location at Mala Child and Family Institute. This is something I deeply value because it provides a vital space for young people to develop essential life skills in a supportive and understanding environment. Witnessing their growth, empowerment, and increased self-awareness is incredibly rewarding. I am passionate about fostering a community where young people feel seen, heard, and equipped to thrive both now and in the future.

I look forward to partnering with you on this transformative journey towards self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. Let's embark on this path together, unlocking the best version of yourself and creating a brighter future!

In my free time, I enjoy being with family, making pottery, spending time in my garden, golfing, and playing board games.

  • Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Heaeth Counseling - Liberty University

    Bachelors of Science in Psychology - Wayne State University

    • Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Attachment-based, Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Culturally Sensitive, Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), Emotionally Focused, Experiential Therapy, Family Systems, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Multicultural, Neurodiversity-Affirming, Person-Centered, Play Therapy

    • Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Grief, Infidelity, Life Transitions, Neurodiversity-affirming, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma and PTSD

    • Mood disorders, Anxiety disorders, Stress-related disorders, Neurocognitive disorders

    • Individuals, Couples, Family, Group

    • Children (6 to 10), Preteen, Teen, Adults

    • Offers special insight for clients of the following faith: Christian

    • Plymouth office