LISW, 1 years of experience
New to Grow
Hello, I’m Michelle — an Independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in supporting individuals as they navigate depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, and major life transitions. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you feel grounded, seen, and empowered to move forward. Whether you're facing a specific challenge or working toward long-term healing, we'll collaborate to uncover your strengths and build practical tools that support lasting change. I draw from a variety of evidence-based practices—including Gestalt therapy, mindfulness, CBT, solution-focused strategies, and strength-based approaches—tailoring each session to meet your unique needs and goals. When I’m not providing therapy services, you’ll likely find me spending time with my three fur babies—Gunner, Ohana, and Nani! I enjoy going on cruises, exploring new places with friends, or simply taking time to relax and recharge.
The focus of our first session will be an initial assessment, which will help me better understand your strengths, goals, and the history of your symptoms and concerns. This conversation will guide us in developing a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs. I also encourage you to ask any questions you may have during this time, including your expectations of me as your therapist. I will likewise share what you can expect from me and discuss my expectations of you as a client. This mutual understanding helps establish a strong foundation for our work together.
My greatest strength as a therapist is my lived experience, which deeply informs my ability to hold a safe and supportive space for my clients. I believe that healing begins in an environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and accepted without judgment. Within that space, I offer genuine empathy, consistent support, and a nonjudgmental presence—all of which are essential for building a strong therapeutic alliance. I see the relationship between therapist and client as a foundation for trust and transformation, and I honor the courage it takes for each person to show up and do the work.
I love working with people who are ready to make meaningful changes in their lives — even if they’re unsure where to begin. My ideal clients come to therapy with an open mind and a willingness to explore, while also feeling comfortable letting me know when something feels heavy or when they need to pause and regroup. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I strive to create a space that feels safe, authentic, and judgment-free. I work with adolescents, couples, and older adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and life transitions. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and compassionate, combining curiosity, humor, and practical strategies to help clients find balance and resilience at their own pace. I believe healing happens when we feel truly seen and supported. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back, build new patterns, and move toward greater connection — both with yourself and the people around you.
Cognitive behavioral therapy helps clients to better understand how their thoughts, emotions and behaviors are linked. This therapy model allows me as a clinician to assist clients in exploring how their negative thoughts influence how they feel about themselves and how their behaviors are then viewed. Within this model clients explore core values/beliefs, cognitive distortions and exploring root cause to these negative patterns.
Teaching clients about their diagnosis, coping strategies, relapse prevention planning and other skills that a client would like to learn about.
Person centered approach allows the client to explore what they are feeling openly with the therapist providing active listening, validation and not providing solutions and or advice. Client leads the direction of conversation, as their therapist provides safe, non-judgmental and acceptance environment.
Gestalt treatment method focus's on a persons here and now experiences, instead of past experiences. This allows a client to focus on current emotions, sensations they feel in their body and thoughts as they emerge.