Tyler Buffin, Master’s Level Counseling Intern
Hi there! I’m Tyler, a child, adolescent, and family counseling intern passionate about helping kids and teens learn to understand and manage their “big feelings” in healthy, empowering ways.
I’m currently completing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through St. Bonaventure University and receive regular supervision from experienced child and adolescent therapists, including a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). I work alongside a team of dedicated child therapists who share a deep commitment to helping families grow and heal, so you can trust your child is in skilled and compassionate hands.
Before becoming a therapist, I worked in schools and community-based mental health agencies, where I discovered my love for helping children navigate emotions, relationships, and the challenges of daily life. My time working in an elementary school especially shaped my passion for supporting children ages 3–10 with emotional regulation, attention challenges, anger, and behavioral outbursts.
I’m becoming specialized in child-centered play therapy, which is particularly effective for children 10 and under. Play is a child’s natural language, and through play, kids can express feelings, solve problems, learn how to cope, and begin to heal in ways that feel safe and natural.
With teens, I take a more active, engaging approach, incorporating movement, hands-on activities, and creative interventions that make therapy feel less like sitting and talking, and more like connecting and discovering new ways to cope. I especially enjoy working with youth with ADHD and youth struggling with anger or aggression. As someone who has lived experience with ADHD myself, I understand how important it is to create a sensory-friendly, flexible environment where movement, creativity, and authenticity are welcome.
I also love using what’s known as “geek therapy,” tapping into kids’ and teens’ special interests like video games, superheroes, or other fantasy worlds to build rapport and help them process emotions in a way that feels genuine and fun. These interests often open the door to incredible growth and self-expression!
As a parent myself, I value working closely with caregivers and helping families strengthen their attachment, communication, and confidence in navigating challenges together.
No matter what brings you here, my goal is to create a space where your child or teen feels safe, supported, and accepted just as they are. Together, we’ll work toward building stronger relationships, new coping skills, and lasting emotional growth.
I look forward to meeting you and partnering with your family on this journey!
Sliding Scale
Tyler offers a reduced
rate ranging from $20-$60 depending on financial need.
Office Location:
Child and adolescent office - Cascade
5360 Cascade Ave SE,
Grand Rapids, MI, 49546
Ready to get started?
Fill out the contact form and our team will answer any questions and help get you scheduled.