Meet The Team

Melissa (Missi) Esterling MA, LPC, Owner

Missi's Place Counseling, PLLC was established in Ravenna, Michigan on September 12, 2022. 

The owner, Missi (Melissa) Esterling earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree with a Business Emphasis in 2002 from Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. After working various short-term roles in sales support, Missi entered the wonderful world of financial investments, where she stayed for approximately 15 years. While working in finance, her 8-year marriage ended due to domestic violence and alcoholism. As Missi began to heal from this relationship, she desired a fairly drastic change in career. In 2017, Missi graduated from Spring Arbor University with a Master of Arts in Counseling. She is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) through the State of Michigan. 

Currently, Missi is working on earning her Registered Play Therapist (RPT) certification. She has also been trained in Sandtray Therapy and EMDR. In addition, she uses various interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy, and the expressive arts. She also relies heavily on psychoeducation as she believes knowledge provides the pathway to change.

Missi believes most people have the power to manage their own lives effectively, given the right tools, encouragement, and help, along with the courage to make the changes needed to move forward. She typically serves children, teenagers, and adults. She is extremely passionate about trauma recovery, having helped survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse, and other difficult life events.  It is her desire to assist your child, teenager, or yourself with the unique journey of life.

Missi resides with her family in Ravenna, Michigan. She enjoys creating and viewing art, drinking Starbucks, going out with friends, cooking when she has time, and spending time with her husband, daughters, and furry friends.

Karen Rubin-Fortier MA, LPC, CCTP-II

Hello! I’m a licensed professional counselor who works with individuals ages 8 and up to navigate life’s challenges, heal from past wounds, and rediscover their true selves. I have a passion for helping people who have experienced trauma find strength, hope, and direction. I’m trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and state-certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. You are not broken—you already have the tools within you to create the life you want. I would be honored to walk alongside you as you uncover them.

Courtney Tulgetske, Counselor-In-Training

Hello! My name is Courtney Tulgetske. I am a clinical counselor-in-training completing my Master’s degree in Counseling at Walden University. Under the direct supervision of Melissa Esterling MA, LPC, I will provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals navigating anxiety, life transitions, and stress.

I draw from humanistic and mindfulness-based practices to help you build practical tools for everyday growth. Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy music, hiking, and spending time outdoors.

Gloria Finkbeiner, Office Assistant

My name is Gloria Finkbeiner. I worked at the Meijer corporate office for 49 years. I wasn’t ready to retire, so I worked at Edward Jones for the next four years. A friend of mine mentioned Missi was looking for some assistance with her business, so I happily joined Missi to assist as her business grows. 

I have one daughter and five grandkids who mean the world to me. I enjoy traveling, making greeting cards, listening to live music, and putting together puzzles when the weather is cold.

I look forward to greeting many of you when you arrive at the office.

Starki Sue Bananahammock, Office Cat

Meow! My name is Starki Sue. I was named after Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, because my mom really enjoys Marvel movies.

My mommy found me on the side of the road as a little kitten. I was only three weeks old and weighed .6 pounds. Now, I weigh almost 12 pounds, and mommy calls me her spicy meatball or her chonky monkey.

I used to come to the office with my mommy, but I can’t seem to control my urge to bite. I don’t mean to be rude, I just like to play and don’t understand that my teefs hurt people’s legs and fingers.

I really do love everyone, but I need to better control my biteyness before my mommy allows me to come back to the office to see everyone. For now, I am on permanent administrative leave without pay.

Love, Starki Sue Bananahammock (My mommy is a F.R.I.E.N.D.S fan)