Couples Therapist in Oakland County, MI
*Virtual and in-person couples therapy appointments and couples therapy intensives available!
Looking for a couples therapist in Michigan? Welcome to the world of therapeutic and culinary experiences with Julie. Julie is an experienced therapist who combines her lifelong passion for cooking with a commitment to helping individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, parenting, or relationship issues. Julie offers a blend of traditional talk therapy and culinary art, parenting support as well as couples therapy.
Julie’s journey into couples therapy and culinary arts began early in life. It was kindled by cherished moments spent baking family recipes with her grandmother. This led to her adventures continued as a prep cook during high school and managed the kitchen at her summer camp. Julie’s dedication to both therapy and the culinary arts led her to earn a B.A. in Counseling from SUNY Empire State College in 2001. She furthered her skills by completing her M.S.W. at Yeshiva University’s Wurzweiler School of Social Work in New York City in 2004.
Julie’s unique therapeutic approach revolves around harnessing the transformative potential of culinary art therapy. Clients working with Julie embark on a journey to gain profound insights, fostering personal growth and heightened self-awareness. By integrating mindfulness techniques into cooking, Julie helps individuals stay fully present, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being. She also specializes in enhancing social skills and cues, facilitating better interpersonal connections.
Couples Therapy and Culinary Art Therapy to Heal Relationships, Anxiety and Stress
Through hands-on culinary experiences, clients develop a deeper awareness of health and nutrition, leading to healthier lifestyles. Julie’s approach extends to improving communication skills, fostering open and effective dialogue for both personal and professional relationships. Additionally, she taps into the therapeutic potential of cooking for stress management, time management, and boosting self-esteem, creating positive impacts across various facets of life. Julie’s culinary art therapy also engages the senses, supporting brain development and emotional well-being, making her a holistic and compassionate therapist dedicated to her clients’ growth and healing.

Throughout her career, Julie has been privileged to work with a diverse array of clients. Julie has served in inpatient substance abuse treatment and outpatient mental health services. One of her areas of expertise lies in working with adolescents and their parents, aiding families in navigating the intricate dynamics of this pivotal stage of life.
Gottman Therapy for Couples
Julie is also certified from the Gottman Institute, underlining her dedication to helping couples cultivate healthy relationships. Drawing from her own nearly two-decade-long marriage and her parents’ enduring 50-year union, Julie intimately understands the effort required to nurture a strong partnership. Julie is eager to merge her passion with evidence-based approaches, empowering couples to enhance their communication and deepen their connection. Couples can opt to incorporate Julie’s expertise in couples therapy and culinary arts therapy or select either approach individually.
Julie’s warm and compassionate approach makes her the ideal therapist to guide you (or you and your spouse) on your journey towards personal growth and improved relationships. Whether you’re an individual seeking personal insight or a couple looking to strengthen your bond, Julie is here to support you every step of the way.
Julie licensed mental health therapist in Michigan.
Cooking Your Way to Calm by Julie Ohana
Cooking Your Way to a Calm Mind is an empowering guide to cook your way to less anxiety, more confidence, and a happier life-whether you are comfortable in the kitchen or a nervous newbie-from a licensed social worker and expert in culinary therapy. Each week, we’ll focus on developing a specific life skill linked to reducing anxiety and tackle a recipe designed to help you learn and master this skill. More about Julie’s book on Amazon
Julie in the Media
How Julie Ohana Blends Food, Therapy and Mindfulness in Her New Book

Getting to Know Julie
Favorite Music/Band/Last Concert you went to: Classic Rock, anything 80’s, Ed Sheeran, Maroon 5, Indigo Girls
Favorite book or podcast (or both!): Anything by Judy Blume, or Jodi Picoult, What Drives You podcast by Ellen Chute, and lots and lots of cookbooks!
Places that I Love: Tel Aviv, Israel
Quote That I Love: “Practice makes progress!”
I never go anywhere without: My giant bottle of water
I’m a little obsessed with: My sheepadoodle named Belle
Favorite Food or Local Eats: All the veggies! Seldon Standard in Detroit is my favorite!
When I’m not at work you can find me: Practicing pilates, cooking, trying new restaurants, snuggling with my dog, spending time with my husband of 15 years and our two kids.
Couples Therapy and Couples Retreat Information
What is Gottman Couples Therapy? Gottman Couples Therapy is the gold standard if you’re looking to heal a relationship. Click here to learn more:
Looking for more about Julie or Culinary Art Therapy to see if it’s a fit for you? Click here: https://www.culinaryarttherapy.com/what-is-culinary-art-therapy





