Hello and welcome! My name is Michelle and I am a therapist who began my Master's Degree after a long career in Information Systems. My bachelor's degree is in Psychology from the University of Akron, and I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walsh University. I am an LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) in the state of Ohio. I am a certified provider of EMDR for the treatment of trauma and attachment issues and I am a member of EMDRIA. I work with individuals and families in addressing life transitions, communication issues, mood disorders, and trauma. As the daughter of a veteran of WWII, I have particular respect and concern for those who have served our country and those who continue to do so as veterans and first responders.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
It is important to me that you are comfortable with me as a provider. I want to understand your reasons for seeking therapy and how best we can work together to meet your goals. We will begin a short period of assessment and then move forward in planning an individual treatment plan in subsequent sessions.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I feel that I am an accepting and non-judgmental person who genuinely cares for the welfare of others. While I have particular theoretical orientations, my approach is client-driven and designed to meet the particular needs of the individual. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds. Each person is unique and deserves to be treated as such.
About Michelle Watkins-Malek
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have found that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is very effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, phobias, among others. CBT is a practical approach to individuals learning skills and strategies to manage thoughts and behaviors. It empowers individuals to handle future challenges. CBT challenges our negative thought patterns which impacts our overall sense of happiness. CBT is evidenced-based and a well-supported treatment in the field of psychology.
EMDR
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. This is an 8 stage process that assists individuals in processing trauma and treating PTSD and CPTSD. It is based upon the concept that the brain can heal from trauma similarly how it processes memories during sleep. It helps individuals integrate traumatic experiences and reduce psychological reactivity and stress. I have applied this successfully with clients who have experienced traumatic childhood experiences, accidents, and sexual trauma.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
Person-centered is at the core of what I practice. I strive to provide unconditional positive regard with respect to your experiences and the establishment of a therapeutic alliance. I validate your feelings and help you to question maladaptive behaviors.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
ACT is a form of psychotherapy that uses mindfulness and behavioral techniques to help individuals lead a meaningful life in accordance with their values. I use this as a means of assisting individuals in identifying their core values in order to lead to greater life satisfaction and purpose. This therapy assists in a reduction of avoidance and help individuals to confront and accept experiences rather than avoiding them.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
There are times in our lives in which we are presented with a difficulty that is significant, but not necessarily psychologically indepth. For instance, changing careers, educational aspirations, relationship difficulties, and poor academic performance all present uncomfortable situations but can often be addressed through Solution Focused Brief Therapy.