(she/her)
New to Grow
I'm Michaele, an LMFT specializing in maternal mental health, trauma, and life transitions. I offer therapy that actually meets you where you are. I work best with people who are done white-knuckling it and ready to do something different; especially those who identify as marginalized or belong to a historically oppressed population, who may have felt unseen in traditional therapy spaces. My approach is trauma-informed, direct, and collaborative. We'll use what works, whether that's EMDR, somatic work, CBT, or just finally having a space where you can say the real thing out loud. You deserve care that affirms you and your truth, while helping you connect with the most aligned version of yourself.
During our first session, we will focus on getting to know each other. I will ask you questions about your background, symptoms, and goals. You are encouraged to ask me questions and name any fears or concerns you may have. I may conduct an assessment to better understand your baseline symptoms and, if needed, we will complete safety planning if self-harm or suicidal ideation is present.
My approach is direct, straightforward, and solutions-focused. I prioritize processing unresolved emotions before moving on to problem-solving as I believe it is important to disrupt cycles that have kept you stuck. I believe that it is impossible to grow when you're bound by the same old distressing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I understand that all clients are not ready for deeper work so we will pace ourselves until you're ready to peel back those layers. As a trauma therapist, who has worked with combat veterans, survivors of physical and sexual abuse, and other various forms of trauma, my clients tend to feel safe and supported, knowing that they no longer have to hold their pain alone.
EMDR
Given the pervasive nature of trauma and often the minimization of its effects, I utilize a trauma-informed approach to all client cases to ensure safety and care. I use EMDR to help clients gain their power back from past trauma by reprocessing traumatic memories. We first gain stabilization tools such as grounding and then proceed to desensitize the traumatic memory, reduce distressing emotions, and replace negative cognitions with more true, accurate beliefs.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I support clients with aligning their behavior with their core values to reduce internal tension and life dissatisfaction that can contributes to depression and anxiety.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
I utilize culturally sensitive therapy to honor and respect different cultures and beliefs. I believe that feeling safe to be your authentic self is integral to therapeutic process, thus I honor diversity and various subcultures including those who identify as Black, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, veterans, creatives, etc.
Humanistic
I use a humanistic approach by meeting clients where they are at and trusting that clients have the power to make the necessary change in their lives, utilizing tools and insight gained in therapy. I believe everyone has the potential to reach their full potential and I support clients along their journey towards self-actualization.
Attachment-based
I believe that early attachment bonds make a significant impact on our ability to thrive in relationships later in life, thus I utilize attachment-based theories to support clients with gaining deeper insight into the relationship with themselves and others including family, friends, romantic partners, peers, and colleagues.