Influential Woman · Counseling and mental health
Lisa Carpenter, MA, LPC
Owner and Licensed Professional Counselor, Center of Hope Counseling
Mount Pleasant, MI 48858
Her Story
About Lisa
Lisa Carpenter is the Owner and Licensed Professional Counselor at Center of Hope Counseling, where she and her team of therapists provides professional mental health services through both in-person and telehealth care. She graduated from Central Michigan University’s counseling program in 1994 and began her career in substance abuse counseling before transitioning into private practice in 1997. In 2016, she founded Center of Hope Counseling, establishing a practice focused on providing compassionate, individualized support to clients navigating complex emotional and mental health challenges. Carpenter specializes in eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief and loss, postpartum support, self-esteem, body image concerns, and men’s emotional health. Her approach emphasizes creating a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment where clients can feel understood while developing healthier coping strategies, strengthening emotional regulation, improving self-worth, and building more fulfilling relationships. She combines clinical expertise with empathy and uses evidenced based treatment approaches, recognizing that effective mental health care often requires collaboration and a comprehensive support system. As a counselor, advocate, and business leader, Carpenter attributes her ability to balance multiple responsibilities to prioritizing self-care, delegating effectively, and building a trusted team around her. She is committed not only to supporting her clients but also to giving back to the community she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lisa
01What do you attribute your success to?
Hard work, positive attitude and the belief "when there is a will there is a way".
I attribute much of my success to persistence, compassion, and a willingness to continually grow and adapt. I have always had a genuine desire to help others, but I have also been willing to take risks, trust my instincts, and recognize opportunities where there was a need for something more. Building Center of Hope has taught me that success does not come without challenges. There have been many times when I have had to adjust, problem-solve, and find a new direction when something was not working. Rather than allowing those challenges to stop me, I have tried to learn from them and keep moving forward. I also believe surrounding myself with good people and creating a team that shares the same commitment to quality, compassionate care has been an important part of our growth. Ultimately, I believe my success has come from working hard, staying true to why I entered this profession, and never losing sight of the people we are here to help.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Do what you love and Love what you do!
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering the industry to prioritize self-care, balance, and building a strong support system. Taking care of yourself is essential to being able to effectively support and lead others, so it is important to recognize your own needs and maintain healthy boundaries. I also believe in the power of delegation and surrounding yourself with a trusted team. You do not have to do everything on your own; learning to delegate, collaborate, and rely on capable people will help you grow as a professional while maintaining balance and sustainability in your career.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I believe some of the biggest opportunities in the mental health field right now come from the growing demand for specialized, accessible, and collaborative care.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value compassion, integrity, hard work, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. In my work, I believe people deserve to feel seen, respected, and supported, and I am committed to providing quality care while continuing to learn, grow, and advocate for those who may struggle to find the help they need. I also place a high value on relationships, loyalty, and creating an environment where the people around me feel valued and supported. In my personal life, family is at the center of what matters most to me. I value spending time with the people I love, being there for others, enjoying life, and appreciating the relationships and experiences that make life meaningful. At the end of the day, I want both my work and my personal life to reflect kindness, authenticity, connection, and hope.
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