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OK...This Is The REAL Me(ow)

Hi! I’m Terri—Capricorn, former HR exec, and someone who’s turned adult ADHD and emotional dysregulation into a career superpower.

I'm a straight cisgender female GenX/Boomer Ohio suburban mom who firmly believes that each  of us has the power to live our best lives while challenging all of life's crazy occurrences.

 

I blend solutions-focused strategies, empowerment, and just enough humor to make self-growth a little less painful (and sometimes even fun).

 

Whether you’re here to build emotional skills or just survive life without screaming into a pillow daily, I’m your gal.

 

Let’s work together to help you thrive—and maybe even laugh along the way!  My assistant Josie here is ready to greet you!

Terri Kern and her assistant Josie
Terri Kern and her assistant Josie

I am Ohio born and educated and raised in Ohio and Michigan.   A human resource career allowed me to travel and work around the world for over twenty years.

I came back to Toledo to take care of my beloved mother, Bunny.  Now I'm here to help you!

Whitmer High School

Toledo, OH

I was fortunate to have a good public education.

I barely graduated because of my severe ADHD.

I've lived in Ohio, Michigan, Georgia, and Illinois.

I've traveled all over the US and Mexico, Canada, the UK and Germany.

University of Toledo

Toledo, OH

Bachelor of Business Admin; Human Resource Mgt.  It took me twelve years to graduate.

University of Toledo

Toledo, OH

Masters of Art; Mental Health Counseling.

I finished this program in two years with a 4.0!

Terri Kern

Hi, I'm Terri!  I'm so glad you found me!

In my practice, every session is a collaborative exchange—we talk, we unpack, and then we put evidence-based structure around what’s been overwhelming you. This isn’t about blame or judgment. We laugh at stuff that's funny and we face the things that are hard. It’s a safe space where your challenges are met with curiosity, compassion, and practical tools that help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

More About Me

Founded in 2019, Great Lakes Counseling Group is here to provide comprehensive support for adults navigating ADHD and anxiety.

 

I am deeply passionate about helping women achieve balance amidst the chaos of daily life.

 

Our coaching focuses on practical, skills-based strategies that foster emotional regulation and personal growth. Together, we’ll work to equip you with the tools you need to thrive in every aspect of your life.

 

Let’s connect today and begin this transformative journey!

Connect with me on social media!

Honestly, our brains are not wired for the emotional roller coaster of social media.  

It's so loaded with garbage, so I post things that will help people stay present, stay calm, recognize their value, and connect with others in a meaningful way.

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • X
  • Linkedin
  • Youtube
  • TikTok
Available online

I OFFER A FREE 15 MINUTE CONSULTATION!

15 min • Free

FAQs About My Practice

  • Q: What kind of clients do you help?

     

    A: Great Lakes Counseling Group is here to support you in your journey toward mental wellness. As a practice tailored specifically for adults, we focus on skills-based treatments for ADHD, anxiety, and relationship issues.

     

    Our experienced team is dedicated to understanding your unique situations and providing you with the necessary tools to manage life’s demands effectively. In a safe and nurturing environment, we invite you to explore your thoughts and feelings while building coping strategies that empower you both personally and socially.

     

    Reach out now to learn more about how we can assist you.

  • Q: What is evidence-based treatment?


    A:  We use a blend of proven approaches—including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), and Attachment Theory—to help clients build lasting skills. Whether you're navigating anxiety, communication breakdowns, or relationship struggles, our sessions are practical, supportive, and focused on real results that hold up over time.

  • Q:  What's it like in a session?

    A:  Sessions are held virtually, in the comfort and privacy of your own space. You’ll find a nonjudgmental, no-blame environment where nothing is off-limits. It’s a safe place to explore your thoughts, relationships, and emotions—while learning practical tools to shift how you experience yourself, others, and the world around you.

  • Q: Do you treat the LGBTQ+ population?

    A: I’m a proud ally who recognizes that gender identity and sexual orientation are biologically wired, not choices, phases, or moral issues.

     

    I don’t separate LGBTQ+ clients into a special category because I treat everyone - transgender men and women, non-binary, same-sex and polyamorous couples, straight and cisgender individuals - with the same respect, care, and clinical focus.

    Human diversity isn’t something to tolerate, but rather it’s something to honor. I’m grateful every day for the richness my clients bring to this work.

Where my expertise comes from:

I've spent nearly 

10K hours

face to face with couples over the last 10 years.

That’s the equivalent of spending five years meeting with couples on a full-time schedule.  

I've treated over

900 individuals

for challenges with focus, anxiety, depression,  and communication.

It's about four full years at 40 hours a week sitting with individuals helping navigate life's shit.

I've been in practice for

10 years

and my clients are all over Ohio.  During COVID I served NY, MO, CA, and GA

Up until recently I've not done a lot of marketing.  Word of mouth has kept me busy - I hope to be busier!

I spent

25 years

in Human Resource Management

I worked for Hudson's/Marshall Fields, The Weather Channel, weather.com, Zurich and served on global HR teams.

Things I Care About

I'm am very passionate about helping women learn how to lower anxiety, take care of themselves, and build a life worth living.

ADHD and anxiety wreaked havoc on my early adulthood.   Dyslexic, inattentive towards important things and hyperfocused on nonsense, I struggled to keep it together. 

My journey from an HR executive to a mental health counselor has gifted me with unique insights into the human psyche.  I've helped a lot of individuals and couples figure themselves out and live their best lives.

This is not a dress rehearsal!  Suffering is optional!
 

Emotional Intelligence

Learning to regulate your emotions isn’t about being “calm all the time”—it’s about reclaiming your power, your voice, and your ability to respond instead of react. It’s one of the most liberating skills a woman can learn.

Healthy Relationships

Healthy relationships are everything—and not just the romantic kind. I care deeply about helping women build connections that feel safe, mutual, and honest, because so many of us were taught to settle, over-function, or stay quiet to keep the peace.

Mental Health Education

People can’t change what they don’t understand. Too many women are walking around thinking they’re “too sensitive” or “not trying hard enough,” when in reality, they’re dealing with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or burnout. When we break down the why behind the struggle and teach real tools—not just fluffy advice—we empower people to take back control of their lives. Education is where healing starts.

Truth and Reality

When we lose our grip on truth and reality everything else starts to fall apart. So many of us create internal narratives that distort what’s actually happening—fueling fear, disconnection, and division. I believe this mindset is at the heart of what’s tearing our country apart. I'm passionate about helping Americans get grounded in reality again, reconnect with critical thinking, and find common ground. Democracy failing is not an option—we have to wake up, regulate, and come back to truth.

Why Did I Cheat_

Just Released!

Why Did I Cheat? is a step-by-step workbook to help you understand why you cheated, take responsibility, and rebuild trust with your partner.

Subscribe to my blog called, What To Do

My 2025 Summer Photos

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