Robert J. Baird, MDiv, MSW, PhD
Education
BA, Hope College
MDiv, Western Theological Seminary
MSW, Grand Valley State University
PhD, Union Institute & University
Licensure
Licensed Psychologist, State of Michigan
Areas of Practice
- Adult Counseling
- Marital & Couples Counseling
- Independent Medical Evaluation
- Disability Evaluation
- Clinical Diagnostic Evaluation
About Dr. Baird
With his unique combination of degrees and experience, Dr. Baird's practice involves clinical, forensic, and organizational psychology.
Within the clinical area, Dr. Baird provides evaluative and counseling services to couples and individuals. Dr. Baird's approach is brief, solution-focused. The primary concentration of his practice involves marital and relationship counseling. He also offers counseling for those with anxiety and depression. To learn more about Dr. Baird's clinical style, click on the Psychology Today link located below.
Dr. Baird also conducts forensic evaluations on referrals from attorneys, the court, and social services. Principal practice areas include: Capacity to Parent (referrals from Children's Protective Services and affiliated social service agencies); Independent Medical Evaluations (IME); and Disability Evaluations.
Fitness for Ministry Evaluations are also provided by Dr. Baird. These assessments provide supplemental information concerning a ministerial candidate to assist an ecclesiastical organization in the process of discernment. The psychological evaluation consists of a face-to-face interview, psychological testing, and may include the review of past records from educational, legal, or employment settings. In addition to assisting the church organization, a Fitness for Ministry evaluations is also intended to assist a ministerial candidate increase self-awareness and understanding of strengths, limitations, and vulnerabilities in the practice of ministry. The psychological assessment explores interests, aptitudes, and skills that can assist the ministerial candidate gain realistic perceptions of ministry and various ministry contexts. Used in this way, the psychological assessment is a tool that aids in determining a fit with the ministry setting to which the individual feels called.
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More from Dr. Baird
Marital Counseling - If you are experiencing tension or disappointment in your marital relationship, you are not alone. The majority of Dr. Baird's clinical practice involves working with couples who need some expert guidance to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and rekindle emotional and physical intimacy.
Relationships - A healthy, secure relationship can serve as an ongoing source of support and happiness in life. It can strengthen all aspects of your wellbeing, from your physical and mental health to your work and connections with others. However, a relationship that isn't supportive can be a tremendous drain on you emotionally. Love and relationships take work, commitment, and a willingness to adapt and change with your partner. Whether you're looking to keep a healthy relationship strong or repair a relationship on the rocks, Dr. Baird can help you build a caring and lasting union.
Anxiety - Panic attacks, social anxiety, phobias, and generalized anxiety/worry are conditions that are highly treatable. You will experience the most success working with a clinician who is trained and certified in the use of neuroscience to rewire the circuits in your nervous system which ignite and perpetuate your distress.
Counseling for Adults - People with anxiety, depression, and other emotional problems can benefit from counseling in order to function fully and modulate the chance of recurrence. Psychotherapy can be highly effective, with many people experiencing improvement in as little as 8 weeks. Counseling is aimed at helping the person develop new ways of thinking; develop coping strategies; identify and avert situations likely to rekindle the problem; and improve interpersonal relations. Without treatment, people may strain and destroy relationships; isolate themselves from the community; compromise their performance at work; and risk increased health problems. Dr. Baird's clinical style is solution-focused which is goal-directed, aiming for resolution.
Clinical / Diagnostic Evals - In the field of psychology, there is a process known as differential diagnosis in which a clinician gathers data from a clinical interview, objective psychological testing, and other reliable sources to determine the etiology of critical symptoms. Often times a physician will refer their patients for an evaluation so that there can be a collaborative decision in prescribing medication and orchestrating a proper course for treatment.
Disability/IMEs - Upon referrals from claim organizations, attorneys, and other individuals involved in the administration of disability or workers' compensation claims, Dr. Baird offers Independent Medical Evaluations. IMEs are comprehensive clinical evaluations which provide an unbiased assessment of a claimant's diagnosis, mental status, and clinical prognosis.
Forensic Consultation - Dr. Baird conducts forensic evaluations on referrals from attorneys and the court. Principal practice areas include: Independent Medical Evaluations (IME) and Disability Evaluations.