Founder and director of An Intimate Marriage, West Michigan's premiere couples counseling center and online resource center, Ms. Rakipi is an outpatient psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience supporting strong, healthy relationships. She completed her Masters degree at the University of Michigan and received her postgraduate certification in Marriage and Family Therapy from the Council for Relationships in Philadelphia, PA. Additional areas of specialization include the treatment of psychological trauma, recovery from dysfunctional family systems, stress management and assertive skills training.
While in Philadelphia, Ms. Rakipi was employed as an outpatient therapist at Jewish Family & Children's Service, Catholic Social Services, and the Postpartum Stress Center. Seven years ago, Ms. Rakipi returned to Grand Rapids and began working for Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services and Westminster Presbyterian Church.
In addition to her private practice, Ms. Rakipi serves on the Kent County Perinatal Mood Disorders Coalition, and the Kent County Breast Feeding Task Force. Ms. Rakipi has led over 50 Couples Communication Workshops (PREP) and facilitates marriage enrichment weekends for area churches. She has been published in the Journal of Couple and Sex Therapy and has lectured about Women's Issues nationally and internationally.
You can watch her monthly appearance as Grand Rapids' local relationship expert on Grand Rapids' ABC Affiliate WZZM 13 by going to http://www.wzzm13.com and clicking on "Take 5 Online Video" and the "Prescription for Love" segment.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Ms. Rakipi enjoys mothering 2 boys, ages 5 and 2.