11299 68th Ave.
Allendale, MI. 49401
About Us
"I always knew I needed to help others, and it was always going to be through counseling. I just took the windy road to get here," Sandi explains, on how Key2Happiness Counseling came to fruition. "And I always tend to have big ideas. Some good, some less than. This was a good one."
She launched Key2Happiness Counseling as a way to provide the kind of care she felt was missing, all while working in the Mental Health Administration. What started as a small practice to help clients in need quickly grew as colleagues joined her mission.
With years of experience in mental health, Sandi’s passion for her work has always been unwavering. When she’s not counseling, you might find her sailing or enjoying the peace of being near water. A music enthusiast, Sandi immerses herself in the world of sound whenever possible. She also has four beloved dogs, one of whom shares her workspace and offers some noisy but supportive company!
Sandi specializes in trauma, toxic stress, depression, and anxiety, offering compassionate support to those facing life’s challenges. Her work started with children and adolescents, focusing on helping them navigate difficult emotions and improving communication within families. She has also worked with adults to enhance their overall quality of life, believing strongly that mental health care is just as important as physical health.
Currently, Sandi offers virtual sessions to clients throughout Michigan, providing the same level of care and dedication to anyone who needs it. She believes everyone deserves a counselor who listens, offers non-judgmental support, and helps them through life’s challenges.
Meet Sandi Stasko, MS LPC – Owner of Key2Happiness Counseling.
Our Experienced Clinicians
Each clinician brings their own unique strengths and specialties, allowing us to provide diverse and compassionate counseling services. As a team, we regularly consult with and support each other to bring you the best care possible.
Rachel Watson • Sam Darrow • Hope Tinholt • Aubrey East • Brittany Carrico
Rachel Watson, LMSW
Practice Manager
Hi! I’m Rachel Watson (she/her), a licensed clinical therapist dedicated to helping you or your child feel seen, understood, and supported.
If you’re exploring therapy for the first time or returning to it, I’m here to make this a space where you can find what you need. I work with clients ages 10 and up across Michigan through Telehealth, and I also offer in-person sessions at our cozy Allendale office.
Originally from Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula, I still love heading back up north to visit. Grand Rapids is now home, where I enjoy life with my family and pets. Outside of work, you can usually find me swimming, puzzling, exploring local restaurants, or spending time in the garden.
My passion lies in supporting clients as they navigate life’s challenges and heal from past traumas. With experience working with children, teens, and young adults, I’m well-versed in helping clients with a wide range of issues, from anxiety, trauma, and school-related stressors to self-esteem struggles and life transitions. I’m nationally certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and often incorporate techniques from CBT, IFS, and DBT, tailoring each approach to best meet your needs.
I believe in creating a warm, judgment-free space where you can safely explore emotions, build self-awareness, and develop skills to move forward in a healthier, happier direction. Whether you're here for yourself or your child, I look forward to working together and helping you find healing and growth.
I am grateful for the opportunity to provide affirming healthcare to members of the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. I use an integrative humanistic approach in sessions that is collaborative and affirming. My favorite part of being a counselor is getting to know my clients and helping them discover their strengths. I specialize in gender dysphoria, monogamous and polyamorous relationship difficulties, trauma, and identity issues.
When I am not working, I love spending time with my partners, chosen family, and many pets (you may see one of my rabbits or cats while on telehealth with me). I am a voracious plant parent with over 30 houseplants and a lovingly cultivated native plants garden outside. I love watching movies (horror especially), reading, and playing cozy video games like Stardew Valley. I also enjoy board games and role-playing games like DND.
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Available via telehealth Monday-Thursday 10 am-5 pm.
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Waitlist for new weekly/bi-weekly therapy clients.
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Current availability for clients who need WPATH letters of support for gender-affirming services.
Sam Darrow
Thanks for stopping by! My name is Sam (they/them/theirs) and I am a queer, non-binary, neurodivergent counselor.
Hope Tinholt
Hi! I’m Hope Tinholt, a part-time outpatient therapist at Key2Happiness.
I’ve been practicing social work for 3 years and recently joined Key2Happiness 6 months ago. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space to help you through your healing journey.
I have experience in working with children and teens who experience anxiety, trauma and a variety of other challenges. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Grand Valley State University in 2018 and my Masters in Social Work from Grand Valley State University in 2021.
When I’m not practicing, I enjoy playing and watching a variety of sports while spending time with friends and family.
Aubrey East
Hi! I'm Aubrey East (she/her), a limited licensed clinical therapist, and I’m passionate about helping you or your child feel heard, supported, and understood.
Whether you're just starting therapy or returning after a break, my aim is to provide a welcoming environment where you can feel at ease and find the support you're looking for as we work together. I offer Telehealth sessions to clients aged 12 and older throughout Michigan, as well as in-person appointments at our inviting Allendale office.
I am originally from the east side of Michigan but have called the west side home since pursuing my undergraduate degree in psychology at Hope College (Go Dutch!) and my Master's degree in Social Work at Grand Valley State University. Having been a competitive swimmer for 13 years, prioritizing health and wellness is a passion of mine. Outside of work, you can find me reading, swimming, exploring new places with friends, and spending time by any body of water!
I have experience working with young adults and college students, and I am dedicated to helping clients navigate a variety of challenges, from anxiety and trauma to self esteem struggles, school/sport related stress, and life transitions. In my therapeutic approach, I often combine a client-centered and strengths-based methodology with techniques from CBT, ACT, and family systems, tailoring my approach to each individual’s unique needs and circumstances.
I strive to create a supportive, conversational space for my clients. By focusing on your strengths and resilience, I hope we can facilitate personal growth and healing in a compassionate environment that honors your unique journey.
Brittany Carrico
Welcome! I’m so glad you’ve found your way here. My name is Brittany Carrico (she/her) and I’m a licensed clinical therapist at Key2Happiness.
I know how difficult it can be to take that first step in seeking therapy, and I want to make that process as smooth and welcoming as possible. It’s my mission to create a safe, supportive space where we can work together toward your personal goals.
I aim to be your biggest cheerleader, while also providing gentle challenges that encourage growth. You’ll find our sessions to be warm, authentic, and comfortable, as I believe that’s the key to building a strong therapeutic relationship.
I specialize in supporting children (10+) and young adults, particularly those navigating anxiety, grief, depression, and life transitions. I have training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and often integrate play therapy techniques to make our sessions both engaging and effective. I offer the flexibility to meet either in person at our Allendale office or virtually from the comfort of your home, no matter where you’re at in Michigan.
If you have any questions or would like to explore if we'd be a good fit, don't hesitate to reach out via email. I'd love to connect and help you (or your child) take the next step in your journey!