River City Psychological Services
A place to heal. A place to grow.
Char M. Houben, Ph.D
Dr. Char Houben (she/her) completed her Ph.D. in counseling psychology at Western Michigan University and a doctoral internship in health psychology at Grand Valley State University. During her post-doctoral fellowship, she is pursuing a specialization in neuropsychology with a concentration on late-diagnosed adult autism.
Dr. Houben has worked in a variety of community and academic settings with extensive
experience in providing clinical services to individuals from diverse populations with an
emphasis in working with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. She has specialized training in
a broad range of issues including complex trauma, intimate relationships, identity development (race/ethnicity, sexuality & gender), racial minority stress, and holistic health.
In addition to providing individual psychotherapy, Dr. Houben has experience in leading interpersonal process groups and conducting psychological testing for ADHD, learning disorders, and mental health assessments for refugees. She also serves a role as a researcher at Western Michigan University.
Dr. Char Houben (she/her) is a neurodivergent psychologist who is committed to the work of dismantling white supremacy and advancing racial equity, providing affirmative and inclusive care for the LGBTQIA+ community, and honoring neurodiversity in the pursuit of well-being. She has adopted a holistic approach to wellness and utilizes relational psychodynamic approaches in psychotherapy. She cultivates an authentic therapeutic relationship through collaboration, creativity, and recognition of the environmental and sociocultural factors that impact the way individuals navigate this complex world. She aims to ensure a safe, non-judgmental space to help individuals feel understood and to assist exploration and integration of various intersecting identities. Dr. Houben utilizes the bounty of an individual’s strengths and lived experiences to affect positive change.
Dr. Houben was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. In her spare time, she enjoys magical adventures, hiking, gardening, research, ideating, reading non-fiction, listening to podcasts, and interpersonal connection.
Accepted insurance plans: BCBS, Aetna Out-of-Network, Private Pay
Dr. Houben currently has a waitlist for new clients. If you would like to inquire about the waitlist, please call 616-259-7207.