Karin Van Ast, MA, LLC

Hello and kumusta! I’m a child, adolescent, and family therapist who loves working with middle schoolers, high school students, and college-age young adults, especially those who are adopted or in foster care. I’m passionate about helping young people discover their strengths, build confidence, and feel truly seen and understood.

I speak Tagalog and Ilonggo, and as an immigrant from the Philippines, I deeply value working with families from diverse cultural backgrounds. Before becoming a therapist, I taught English as a Second Language (ESL) in elementary and middle schools, which gave me firsthand insight into the unique challenges children and teens face in academic and social settings. That experience continues to shape my work today as I support students and families navigating school-related stress, identity, and transitions.

Blue triangle

Connecting with each person I work with is at the heart of my approach. I believe therapy should feel supportive, creative, and even enjoyable. Because every individual is different, I incorporate art, play, sand tray, creative writing, acting, and music into sessions — using each person’s unique interests to make therapy engaging and meaningful. For young adults, I often blend expressive techniques with traditional talk therapy to encourage reflection and growth.

I also care deeply about helping teens and their caregivers strengthen communication and rebuild connection during those sometimes-turbulent adolescent years. Together, we work toward creating a greater sense of safety, understanding, and joy in family relationships.

For families who value spirituality, I can integrate faith-based perspectives into therapy upon request. I have a broad understanding of world religions and personally identify as a Christian, but I warmly welcome clients from all belief or non-belief backgrounds.

Whether in-person or virtually, my goal is to make counseling a positive, empowering experience for you or your child. I’m honored to join families in their journeys toward healing, growth, and connection, and I look forward to meeting you!

Insurances Accepted

  • Aetna

  • ASR

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield

  • Blue Cross Complete

  • Cigna

  • Priority Health (Commercial/Medicaid)

  • McClaren

  • Molina

  • Private Pay

Office Location:

Child and adolescent office - Cascade

5360 Cascade Ave SE,
Grand Rapids, MI, 49546

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