Guiding children, teens, couples and adults to help families thrive beyond depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, self-esteem, grief and more. Life can be healthier, happier and easier! Frustrated parents, there are tools to help you reach your son or daughter. There is hope! Struggling teens, there is help! Hurting couples, it doesn't have to be this way. We are committed to providing confidential, affordable, high quality services to the families of northern Michigan.
located in Petoskey
We will do an intake where we discuss your specific situation, your background, your goals, and your needs. Together, we will create a treatment plan specifically for you. And work together to make your life happier, healthier and easier.
We all need a guide sometimes, someone to walk alongside us, listening without judgment, helping us find answers. Real Life works online and in person by listening, encouraging and teaching practical changes for your success. We’ll work toward your goals together, progressing though our plan until you achieve all the results you’ve hoped for. The first time is always the hardest. After that, it gets easier!
what to expect when we meet
Jake Tracy
After growing up in West Michigan, Jake graduated in 2007 with an Undergraduate degree from Grand Valley State University. He then finished his Master's Degree in 2015 at Spring Arbor University. Jake is a certified teacher, school counselor, licensed professional counselor, and counselor supervisor.
He has been working with people from multiple backgrounds and cultures at schools, camps, churches, and nonprofit organizations since 2003.
Jake has lived and served in Northern Michigan since 2011. “In 2014 I was blessed marry to the most compassionate woman I know and share life with her here in Petoskey. When I’m not in the office, I take every opportunity I can to camp and mountain bike in the summer or lace up my hockey skates in the winter.”
Dr. Brandon Mielke
Brandon grew up in Macomb Township, Michigan, completing his Bachelor's in Counseling Psychology at Cornerstone University in 2017. In 2020, he earned his Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, and he earned his Ph.D. in General Psychology through Liberty University in 2025. Brandon is a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Licensed Professional Counselor.
He has been helping people struggling with substance abuse as well as anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns since 2017. Brandon has worked in residential rehabilitation centers, inpatient psychiatric facilities, and outpatient clinics.
Brandon has lived and served in Northern Michigan since 2018. “In 2019 I met and married my amazingly beautiful wife. In 2022, we welcomed our son into the world, and in 2024, we welcomed our daughter into the world. When I’m not in the office, my family and I enjoy hiking, biking, camping, and the many other activities that Northern Michigan has to offer."
Melissa Freedman
Melissa grew up in Metro Detroit and has proudly called Northern Michigan home since 2014. She holds a Bachelor of Science from Michigan State University in Animal Science, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Michigan.
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Melissa is currently completing her Doctor of Nursing Practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) through Grand Valley State University, with anticipated graduation in April 2027.
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Melissa brings a diverse and rich background to her clinical practice. Since earning her nursing license in 2017, she has worked in the emergency department, where she developed a strong interest in mental health through her work with individuals in crisis. Her earlier careers—as a ski instructor, EMT, firefighter, and professional in the equine industry—have all shaped her passion for understanding human behavior and guiding individuals through their healing journey.
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Now completing clinical hours at Real Life Counseling, Melissa is committed to expanding access to mental health services in Northern Michigan.
Outside of work, she enjoys life in Boyne City with her husband and daughter, spending time outdoors, and training and competing in dressage with her horses.
Lauren Schlueter
Lauren is a counselor in training, set to receive a Master’s degree in clinical mental health through Central Michigan University by May of 2026. Their prior experience includes volunteer crisis text/chat counseling with The Trevor Project.
Lauren’s specializations include trauma, relationships, neurodivergence, gender and sexuality. Their approach is relational, existential, and compassion-focused, and they are a passionate advocate for members of marginalized populations.
Originally from the West Coast, Lauren has in recent years been thriving in northern Michigan with their husband and cat. When not in the office, Lauren is often traveling, playing games, enjoying music, and getting creative in the kitchen. They are looking forward to supporting you with openness and without judgment, and to joining you in exploring connection, meaning, and wellness in your life.
Aleena was raised in Boyne City, Michigan. Aleena has lived in San Clemente, CA, and Naples, FL. Aleena completed her undergraduate degree at Central Michigan University and is finishing the last stages of her master’s in clinical mental health at Central Michigan University.
Aleena has a wealth of professional knowledge regarding children in the juvenile system, including foster care case management through the State of Michigan. Aleena also has her CADC-DP in substance use counseling and has experience facilitating counseling for juvenile drug courts.
Aleena has worked with various socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds throughout her professional career including re-entry work for MDOC, nonprofit leadership, and private practice for practicum in Petoskey, MI.
Aleena focuses her life on overall wellness, is active in the fitness community, and has a deep love of nature and her golden retrievers. Aleena is passionate about helping clients practice authenticity.