Whitney Leininger, LMSW

Whitney Leininger is a Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW), a master's-level social work license, practicing in Southwestern Michigan. She provides direct mental health and behavioral support to both children and adults facing a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship and family challenges, personality and mood disorders, stress related to sexual orientation and gender identity, work-related pressures, grief and loss, difficulties with motivation, self-esteem and confidence, self-compassion work, and coping with expected and unexpected life changes.

Her experience spans multiple settings such as community programs, schools, in-home services, and residential treatment facilities. Whitney approaches care with a collaborative stance, viewing the therapeutic relationship as a partnership built on mutual respect and recognition of each person’s lived experience. She draws on a variety of evidence-informed methods - including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Supportive Therapy, Solution-Based Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing - and may integrate mindfulness exercises, journaling, worksheets, and reflective practices to match each individual’s needs.

Whitney works alongside clients to define meaningful goals, whether those involve gaining insight, finding support, easing symptoms, solving problems, or building adaptive coping skills. She emphasizes that each person is the expert of their own story and that existing strengths can be harnessed to move through challenges. Seeking a more fulfilling life requires courage, and Whitney aims to support and empower people as they take those first steps toward change.