Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Schantz.
Hi Amanda, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey into this field really began when I took placement of two relative children, which gave me firsthand insight into the foster care system. That experience had a profound impact on me and ultimately led me to pursue a degree in social work so I could better support children and families navigating similar challenges.
I discovered a strong passion for working more directly with individuals on their mental health. While I gained valuable experience in macro social work, I realized my strengths and interests were more aligned with clinical work, which led me to shift my focus in that direction.
I spent four years working in a group practice, further developing my clinical skills and refining the populations I feel most passionate about serving. Recently, I launched my own private practice to create more flexibility in my work and to better serve my community and the individuals I feel called to support
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Balancing school, work, and raising a large blended family while navigating major life transitions came with a lot of challenges. On top of that, coming from a trauma background myself, I also had to do my own personal growth and healing throughout this process, as I continue to do. There were, and there are times I feel stretched thin and have had to really lean into resilience and time management just to keep moving forward.
Professionally, shifting from macro work into clinical practice was also a learning curve. Building confidence as a clinician and finding my voice in the field took time. And more recently, starting my own private practice has come with its own set of challenges—stepping into the business side, taking risks, and learning as I go.
But each of those challenges has shaped how I show up today, not just as a therapist and as a business owner, but also as a mother, spouse, etc.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Healing Haven Therapy, PLLC.?
Healing Haven Therapy is a private practice I recently launched to provide accessible, individualized mental health support to people navigating life transitions, anxiety, stress, trauma, and parenting support. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents who feel overwhelmed or stuck, offering tools and guidance to help them regain balance, clarity, and confidence in their lives.
What sets me apart is my approach: I combine professional expertise with lived experience. Coming from a trauma background myself and navigating major life challenges—including parenting seven children and going through personal transitions—I understand the real-life pressures that can make mental health work feel overwhelming. This allows me to meet clients with empathy, authenticity, and practical strategies they can actually use and feel helpful.
I’m most proud of building a space that is flexible and compassionate. Healing Haven Therapy isn’t just about therapy sessions—it’s about creating a safe space where people feel seen, supported, and empowered to make meaningful change. I believe each person is the expert in their own life. Therapy is about helping clients tap into their autonomy and use their strengths to make the changes they want.
I offer individualized clinical social work services designed to fit the needs of each client. I offer a mix of in-person and telehealth sessions to reach as many people as possible within the state of Michigan. Ultimately, my goal is to help clients not just survive life’s challenges, but to thrive through them—building resilience, self-awareness, and tools for long-term wellbeing
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about Central Michigan is that it is my home. I have been in this community my entire life. There is an incredible sense of community. People here really support local businesses, and when someone needs help, this community shows up for one another.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.healinghaventherapypllc.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584353360403
- Other: https://share.google/3VY3azpQOQGXjNjqM
