As a graduate of the Michigan State University Marriage and Family Therapy program, I have spent the past 25 years helping children, teens, and families lead happier, healthier lives. My clinical work is grounded in a deep commitment to supporting individuals through life’s challenges with compassion, insight, and evidence-based care.
Inspired to Lead with Empathy and Serve With Compassion
In 2018, I founded Dr. Kendal and Associates, which later evolved into the Kendal Clinic. This expansion allowed me to extend my reach and provide more comprehensive mental health services throughout metro Detroit and across Michigan. Growing this clinic by adding new therapists, Psychiatric Nurses and Physician Assistants, as well as groups, classes, and programs has been one of the greatest joys of my career.
My therapeutic approach is direct, insightful, and often infused with humor. While I offer strong empathy and support, I also believe in being honest with a dose of practical truth. My goal is to cut through the noise, get to the heart of the issue, and help clients move forward with clarity and purpose.
Come As You Are. Heal As You’re Ready.
I offer therapy with a coaching edge—structured, forward-moving work designed for highly motivated and goal-oriented individuals, couples, and families. Whether through Intensive Reset sessions or Parent Coaching, my approach blends traditional therapy with action-based strategies to foster real and lasting change. My goal is always to create a safe, supportive space where healing can begin and transformation is possible.
My area of expertise combining psychotherapy with coaching found me. I’m not well-suited for long, drawn-out therapy experiences, although many members of my team are exceptional at that. I thrive on assessing, prioritizing, and intervening quickly. I’m a master at holding my clients accountable in a warm, empathetic, and real way.
Understanding Rooted in Cultural Insight
I grew up in the former Soviet Union and immigrated twice, first to Canada, then to the United States. My experience of navigating multiple cultures has shaped my ability to see both sides of the coin at once, which has been incredibly valuable in my work with couples and families.
I’m not a fan of the status quo, which I believe is one of the best attributes I bring to my work as both a therapist and a practice owner. I’m always seeking unusual and unique solutions that fit each patient or family’s needs best.
As someone who has achieved many life goals, with many more to come, I understand that change and growth is a lifelong process. It’s a privilege to walk alongside my patients on their journeys of personal growth.
Exploring Life and the World
I love to travel! My travels take me all over the world, but visiting my college-aged daughters is always a joyful event. My international adventures are one of the things that keeps me energized and connected to the world. When I’m home, I’m a fiber artist, dividing my time between knitting, crocheting, and weaving. I also enjoy playing tennis and pickleball. While I don’t always love weight lifting, I do it with the goal of staying strong and healthy so I can keep traveling and growing well into my 90s.
