To be human is to need others, and this is no flaw or weakness.
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-Sue Johnson
ABOUT DR. WILDEY
Dr. Mikhila Wildey, a licensed clinical psychologist, has dedicated her career to helping couples navigate the complexities of their relationships. Her academic journey began at Michigan State University, where she completed both her undergraduate and graduate PhD work. Dr. Wildey completed her predoctoral clinical internship at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. After earning her PhD in 2013, Dr. Wildey began her professional journey at Pine Rest's Northeast Clinic, specializing in both adult individual and couples therapy. In 2015, she transitioned to Grand Valley State University (GVSU) as a professor in the Psychology Department while simultaneously maintaining a one day per week practice at Pine Rest. At GVSU, Dr. Wildey thrives in various roles, including teaching, mentoring students, and engaging in research on couples dynamics. By remaining active in clinical work, Dr. Wildey is convinced that her hands-on experience strengthens her ability to teach and conduct research. Likewise, her expertise in teaching and research enriches and informs her work with couples.
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In 2019, Dr. Wildey transitioned from Pine Rest and established her private practice, "Resilient Relationships," located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In this setting, she dedicates her attention solely to four to five couples per week, reflecting her dedication to her role at GVSU and the time constraints that come with it. Dr. Wildey achieved tenure in 2021, and she received a teaching award at the university in 2023.
In her role as a couples therapist, Dr. Wildey uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques, drawing on a diverse range of interventions, such as Gottman techniques, Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy, and Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy (EFT). While tailoring her approach to each couple's unique needs, she emphasizes the transformative power of EFT, viewing relationships as attachment bonds and guiding couples toward deeper intimacy and connection. Dr. Wildey's extensive training in couples therapy includes an externship in EFT, and she actively engages with both the research and clinical communities to stay abreast of the latest interventions.
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Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Wildey shares her wealth of knowledge through teaching at GVSU. Courses in Adult Psychopathology, Behavior Modification, and leadership of the psychology department's practicum course showcase her passion for education. This commitment is also evident in her therapeutic practice, where she adopts a teaching-based approach, imparting valuable skills to couples for strengthening their bonds. Dr. Mikhila Wildey exemplifies a holistic and dedicated approach to both academia and clinical practice, enriching the lives of individuals and couples alike.
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Dr. Wildey was born in the US to immigrants from India and is proud of her cultural roots. She currently lives in Grand Rapids with her husband and their two biracial children. She welcomes and celebrates working with couples from diverse backgrounds, much like her own.