Finding Your Path
Choosing the right therapist is a deeply personal step on your journey toward wellness. At Brighter Tomorrow, we believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of healing. Whether you are seeking support for trauma, navigating relational challenges, or pursuing personal growth, our clinicians are here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space tailored to your unique mental health needs and goals.
Meet Our Therapists
Owner & Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Dr. Emily Short
Trauma recovery, EMDR, and IFS therapy.
I work with individuals, couples, and families. In session, I take a Person Centered approach to develop a treatment plan that best outlines the progress the individual, couple or family wants to make in therapy. By utilizing a Brief Solution Focused Therapy approach, this model can assist in accomplishing therapy goals in a short time frame. Additionally, I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy . My graduate and doctoral coursework has also trained me in multiple other therapeutic models.
I am a Licensed marriage and family therapist, and have finished my doctorate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Before opening Brighter Tomorrow Wellness Center, I worked collaboratively with a neurodevelopment assessment team to complete Trauma Assessments for youth involved in the Child Welfare System. I am skilled in conducting many assessment tools that assess the cognitive and academic abilities of a youth, as well as the Emotional and Behavioral abilities. I have been working in private practice since 2015 working with a variety of demographics.
Cortney Maser
Limited License Master Social Worker
Holistic, trauma-informed care for youth.
Hi, I’m Cortney! I am a Limited License Master of Social Worker (LLMSW) who’s all about real conversations, self-discovery, and making space for whatever you’re carrying. I earned my master’s in social work from the University of Michigan and, before that, my bachelor’s in exercise science from Saginaw Valley State University, which really shaped my appreciation for the brain-body connection. My experience is rooted in neurorehabilitation supporting individuals recovering from traumatic brain injuries, which continues to inform my compassionate, curious approach. In sessions, I use a person-centered style along with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, and body awareness to help you feel more grounded and better understand what’s coming up for you. Your time with me will be laid-back and collaborative — no judgment, no pressure, just space to grow and be your authentic self. I’m happy to walk alongside you on this journey of growth, change, and understanding to help you reach your goals.
Wendy Sparks
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Couples therapy and relational transitions.
Hi! I'm Wendy and I’m glad you’re here. It’s a big step to even consider seeking therapy and I want to tell you that you are in the right place, and I’m proud of you. Life can be a challenge at times, consider me a guide to help you navigate those difficult moments through your journey.
I am passionate about creating a safe and inviting space where you can share and explore your thoughts, concerns, and feelings openly and without judgement. I believe that you are the expert at your life and how you choose to live it. As a therapist I prefer to utilize a collaborative and integrative approach that is best suited to fit the needs of each client. I specialize in working with couples and individuals who are struggling with sex & relationship concerns such as infidelity, conflict management, emotional regulation and intelligence, communication, intimacy, & rebuilding connection. My graduate and doctoral coursework has trained me in various therapeutic methods and models that allow me to find the best fit for my clients. I find therapy works best for clients that are open and receptive to learning more about themselves and new ways of doing old things. I have experience in working with those in active recovery, those seeking premarital work, and those struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, emotional dysregulation, needing anger management, infidelity, trust issues, & conflict management.
Ashley McClarren
Licensed Professional Counselor
Anxiety, life transitions, and support for young adults.
I have training and experience working with children/adolescents, individuals, and families struggling with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma and/or stressor-related disorders, parent-child conflict, behavioral disturbances, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, post-partum challenges, and self-harm/NSSIB. I have experience in crisis de-escalation/stabilization, assessing suicidal/homicidal risk, and collaborative safety planning. I have experience working with children/adolescents, individuals, and families that have been affected by the child welfare and legal system. I have experience in assisting children/adolescents and their families with navigating the special education/IEP process. I have personal and professional experience working with children/adolescents, individuals, and families with intellectual/developmental disabilities. I utilize a trauma-informed, solution-focused, person-centered approach to treatment with an emphasis on providing empathy, unconditional positive regard, genuineness, and maintaining a non-judgmental stance. I utilize CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing techniques/strategies to assist with achieving goals/objectives.
Limited License Marriage and family Therapist
Andrea Krause
Depression, grief, and self-worth.
I work with any variety of individuals, partnerships, and families (children and adults). I am trained in systems theory and believe equally in nature and nurture. Many things have made us each who we are and I enjoy helping people along toward their personal happiness, no matter what that might look like to you. I am fortunate to have many experiences that have led me to this spot in life including a background in genetics at the University of Michigan, multiple years serving in many capacities within the public school system, and also becoming a Registered Behavior Technician working with children on the autism spectrum 2-8. I also have a passion serving our community volunteering at a local hospital pediatrics unit and interning at a local mental health partial hospitalization program. My goal is to build treatment around what will work for you, on your
personal timeline and within your personal capabilities. We can explore your past, present, and future collaboratively to establish the avenue toward solutions that you can be satisfied with.
Common Questions
How do I know which therapist is right for me?
Choosing a therapist is a personal decision. We recommend reading through our therapist profiles to see whose specialties and 'ideal client fit' resonate most with your current needs and goals.
What should I expect during my first session?
The first session is an opportunity for you to share your story and for the therapist to understand your needs. It's a gentle introduction where we'll discuss your history and what you hope to achieve through therapy.
Is everything I share confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship. We provide a safe, private space where you can speak openly, following all legal and ethical guidelines for patient privacy.
How long does the therapy process take?
The length of therapy varies for everyone. Some clients find resolution in a few months, while others benefit from longer-term support. We will regularly check in to ensure the pace feels right for you.
Can I switch therapists if I don't feel it's a good fit?
Absolutely. The therapeutic 'click' is essential for healing. If you feel another member of our team might be a better match after your initial sessions, we are happy to help facilitate that transition.
What is trauma-informed care exactly?
Trauma-informed care means we recognize the widespread impact of trauma and integrate that understanding into every aspect of your treatment, prioritizing your safety, choice, and empowerment.
Ready to Step Into Your Brighter Tomorrow?
Contact us today for a consultation via phone or email. Our team is here to support you in finding the right path forward.