Dr. Mark Vander Meer, Recovery Coach

Hi, I’m Dr. Mark Vander Meer, a Certified Recovery Coach. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I begin with God's grace as I meet with adults, adolescents and children where they are; not where I think they ought to be. I take time to discover how God has wired you by using a dynamic temperament profile to discover true needs, wants, strengths, weaknesses and seek to lean into your strengths and God's purpose for your life. To know how we are made in God's image and how we matter to God is my first priority.I identify myself as a recovery coach. I approach recovery from the 12 Step model and the Biblical comparisons, as well as assessing body, mind and spirit; I want to help each person look at the whole self and know that restoration is possible from anything; God is in the business of new beginnings.     

RECOVERY COACHING APPROACH   

I invite opportunities to work with adults, couples, adolescents, and young children struggling with all life issues, which may include: anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, relationship strain, grief and loss, as well as, issues of purpose and direction. I always use a Christ centered, temperament and solution-based approach to counseling. Starting with one's "hot wiring," that is, how you are made in God's image, I then work with each individual to identify how they are acting within that "hot wiring." This brings solutions to resolving issues with inter/intra personal conflict, depression, unexplained anger, and dissatisfaction at home or in the workplace.I specialize in the areas of addiction, trauma, marriage and family issues, anxiety, and discovering one's purpose.  I have had the privilege to walk with people through many unique, extreme and difficult situations for over 30 years.  When we think that everything is out of control, we return to the truth on how God is in control, trust in Him and begin again. Recovery defined is "a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness; live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential." Given this, recovery is not about alcohol, drugs or gambling. These examples are merely behaviors we engage in that are used to medicate spiritual, mental and emotional pain. As we use the 12 Steps, their Biblical comparisons and define a recovery plan, there is hope. If you are stuck and caught in the addiction cycle, then I want to come alongside you non-judgmentally to work through your true issues one step at a time. The recovery coaching approach will help you to go forward as opposed to lingering in the past. As we say in recovery coaching, we are always "forward looking."   

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

I earned my Master's Degree in Religious Education from Trinity International University and my Doctor of Ministry degree from Bethel University. I earned my Certifications in Pastoral Counseling from the National Christian Counselors Association and my Certification in Recovery Coaching from the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery.  As a mental health practitioner, I began my career in clinical mental health care with Hope Network in 1990; expanded my experience as a full time Qualified Mental Health Practitioner as a Case Manager at Community Counseling Centers of Chicago; worked in a variety of mental health and ministry capacities during seminary; and brought best mental health practices to the ministry by 1997 through today. In 1999, I founded Community Recovery International, a Christ centered non-profit, 12 Step recovery and educational organization that provides weekly recovery worship, support groups and online resources and training. I oversee many projects and regular programming that helps communities world wide. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, run daily, read and enjoy coffee. If you would like to schedule an initial session with me, call 616-499-4711 or click the "Schedule With Mark" button below; I'd be happy to meet with you and help you explore next steps. 

Dr. Mark