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ABOUT US

Helping you become your healthiest, most vibrant self—inside and out.

Our mission is to support the whole person by blending mental health counseling with practices like yoga, fitness training, nutrition guidance, and more. We believe true wellness starts within, and lasting growth comes from addressing the challenges that shape your habits and self-perception. Inner Fitness is a safe, judgment-free space where you’re free to be authentic, feel supported, and explore meaningful change.

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Our Founder

Valarie James,

LMSW, MPH, 200HR RYT

She/Her

Valarie James is a licensed Master’s Social Worker. She received her Bachelors from Grand Valley State University in Public Administration and a dual Masters from Michigan State University in Social Work and Public Health. She is a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and 200HR Registered Yoga Teacher through Yoga Alliance. Valarie’s goal is to bridge the gap between mental health and physical movement through her practice of what she calls “Inner Fitness.” Valarie has a variety of experiences working with couples, families, adolescents, young adults, and older adults of diverse populations. She has a passion for assisting individuals with eating disorders, body image issues and mood disorders. Valarie strives to make mental health services and the ability to heal accessible for all without the fear of feeling judged. Her goal is to make every client feel respected, supported, and empowered regardless of background.

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Jamise Lay

LLMSW

Jamise Lay is a clinical therapist who received a Bachelor of Social Work from Western Michigan University and a Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University. She's a compassionate therapist who works with children, teens, and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, ADHD, life transitions, stress management, and self-esteem issues. She believes therapy should be a safe, supportive space where you can show up exactly as you are without judgment, just understanding, compassion, and a genuine desire to help you thrive. Her style is warm, encouraging, collaborative, and tailored to each individual. She draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, and Holistic perspective to help clients find emotional balance, self-awareness, and resilience. Her
background is in Outpatient Therapy, Family Therapy, Child Residential, and School-based Social Work.


She is passionate about making therapy not only effective but also engaging and empowering. Whether you’re navigating a tough transition, seeking healthier coping skills, or wanting to understand yourself better, she will walk alongside you on your journey toward growth. Together, you’ll create a space where you feel heard, understood, navigate challenges, celebrate progress, and build the tools, confidence, and clarity you need to feel more grounded, capable, and hopeful about what’s ahead.

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Akiyah Torres

Exercise Science Intern

Meet  Akiyah!  She's 22 years old, and fitness is truly her passion. She's working towards becoming a personal trainer, with a special focus on young adults and athletes. She loves empowering others, helping them feel stronger, more confident, and proud of who they are inside and out. Nothing inspires her more than seeing people fall in love with themselves and their progress.

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