Mental health therapy for adults in Michigan

Balance is built in the small choices made every day

ABOUT

Rooted in the Downriver community of Southeast Michigan, Balanced MI, LLC provides quality, virtual mental health therapy to support individuals across Michigan. I help clients manage anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions using a combination of evidenced-based practices and a holistic, down-to-earth approach. Achieving balance isn’t about living a life without challenges. It’s about developing coping skills, adaptability, and self-trust to navigate life’s ups and downs and continue to come out on the other side.

Meet Jaycie

Hi, I’m Jaycie Gauci. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LMSW) dedicated to providing virtual mental health support to adults across Michigan. Having walked a similar path in navigating life’s challenges, I know firsthand the courage it takes to seek support, and I’m glad you’re here.

I believe therapy should be more than just symptom relief. That’s why I aim to support clients in developing greater self-awareness, expressing and processing emotions, identifying patterns, and creating change that lasts. I incorporate a holistic approach in my work with clients because I recognize that mental health is deeply intertwined with physical health, lifestyle, environment, relationships, and so much more.

My therapeutic style balances compassion with accountability. I believe in challenging my clients to think differently, step outside of their comfort zones, and embrace the process towards positive change. If you’re looking for a therapist who simply sits back and nods, I’m not for you. My approach may sound different, but it’s designed to help you achieve meaningful personal growth.

Beyond my life as a therapist, I’m passionate about fitness and nutrition, I love hiking, trying new restaurants and food, traveling, and spending quality time with my husband, our cat (Remi), and our dog (Raven).

Education & Qualifications

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Michigan and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work at Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI and earned a Master of Social Work degree at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI. Additionally, I have completed advanced training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Nutrition and Mental Health.

Areas of Expertise

If this sounds like you, therapy can help

Anxiety is a normal human emotion from time to time, but sometimes it feels like too much. Therapy can help you better understand patterns of worry, develop coping strategies, and regain a sense of control. You might notice:
- Overthinking or racing thoughts
- Difficulty concentrating or staying in the present moment
- Functioning well on the outside, but constantly worrying on the inside
- Panic symptoms
- Frequently feeling overwhelmed or on-edge
Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed or stretched too thin? Chronic stress impacts both physical and mental health. You might be experiencing:
- Difficulty balancing work, relationships, responsibilities, and expectations
- Frequently feeling annoyed or irritable
- Cynicism or hopelessness
- Emotional, mental, or physical exhaustion
- Sleep disturbances
Depression can make life feel heavy. It can impact motivation, energy levels, and overall mood. You might notice:
- Persistent sadness or low mood
- Lack of energy or motivation
- Feeling stuck or disconnected
- Difficulty finding enjoyment in things
Many people experience fluctuating levels of self-esteem and confidence. It can show up in the way you think about yourself, your decisions, and place in the world. Does this sound like you?
- Frequent negative self-talk or self-criticism
- Self-doubt or second-guessing decisions
- Difficulty recognizing your strengths
- A desire to live more fully and authentically
Major life changes, even the positive ones, can disrupt routines, bring uncertainty, and impact our emotional and mental wellbeing. You might be going through:
- Career changes
- Relationship challenges
- Moving or relocation
- Becoming a parent
- Acute grief or loss
- Adjusting to a new life phase

Evidenced-Based Therapy Approaches

CBT focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Using this approach, we will identify the unhelpful thought patterns, learned behaviors, and core beliefs that may be contributing to anxiety, stress, or low mood. We’ll then work together to develop healthier ways of thinking and implement practical coping strategies you can use in your everyday life. This approach is valuable for treating a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, sleep problems, disordered eating patterns, low self-esteem, and everyday life challenges (such as relationship problems, work changes, grief, new medical conditions, difficult life circumstances).
ACT aims to help clients develop a healthier relationship with challenging thoughts and emotions, rather than trying to eliminate them. The goal of this approach is to help clients build psychological flexibility, make choices that align with your values, and be more present in daily life. This approach is helpful for clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, or chronic stress.
SFBT is an outcome-oriented approach that focuses on identifying challenges, strengths, and embracing practical solutions rather than staying stuck in a problem. In our work together, we will identify what’s already going well in your life and identify small, realistic steps you can take towards your goals. This approach is best for clients who are motivated to make a change yet feel stuck, uncertain, or overwhelmed.
In addition to evidenced-based approaches, I use a holistic perspective recognizing that mental health is influenced by so much more than our thoughts and emotions alone. Sleep, physical activity, nutrition, lifestyle habits, and daily routines can all impact emotional wellbeing. Taking a holistic approach means I consider how these different areas of life interact and support clients in creating sustainable lifestyle habits that promote both mental and physical wellbeing. This perspective helps therapy focus not only on reducing symptoms, but also on supporting long-term balance and overall wellness.

My approach as a therapist is direct, collaborative, and focused on supporting clients in building lasting change. I draw from a holistic lens and utilize evidenced-based strategies in my work including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). My goal isn’t to keep you in therapy forever, rather it’s to help you develop the tools and gain the insight needed to maintain the life you want.

FAQs

This answer is simple: Everyone can benefit from therapy. Whether you're facing a specific challenge, seeking personal growth, or simply looking for a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, therapy can offer valuable support.
Your first session will be an initial intake appointment. During the first appointment, we will review your mental health history, current concerns, and goals moving forward. Ongoing appointments look different for everyone and are individualized to you. Sessions will involve collaborative dialogue, goal setting, skill building, and oftentimes a little bit of humor and human connection. It’s important to remember that therapy sessions are a safe and confidential space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. All sessions are scheduled for 60 minutes unless otherwise specified following the initial intake.
The length of therapy varies person to person and is based on a variety of factors including symptoms, individual goals, and client commitment.
Yes! In addition to private pay options, I currently accept BCBS of Michigan, BCBS of Massachusetts, Horizon BCBS of New Jersey, Cigna, Aetna, and United Healthcare. (Client must reside in Michigan)
We are a virtual-based therapy practice, offering services to anyone who resides in the state of Michigan. What this means for you, is comfortable & convenient sessions with flexibility to fit your lifestyle.
Initial intake session: $175
Ongoing sessions: $150
If you are using insurance, I will provide an estimate for your copay prior to your first session.
Send a message through this website. Prior to scheduling an intake, I require a brief (low-pressure), 15-minute phone consultation to ensure my approach is the best fit for your needs and discuss any questions you may have.