LPC/MHSP, 20 years of experience
Hi there! I'm a Psychotherapist with experience working with adults of various backgrounds. I specialize in trauma, generalized anxiety, life transitions and other concerns. My therapeutic style is warm and welcoming. I'm passionate about empowering motivated individuals to take intentional steps to create the life they want to live. I hold an BS in Psychology, an MS in Mental Health Counseling, a certificate in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Throughout my career, I have worked in diverse roles as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, serving military families, individuals, and communities across multiple states. My experience includes outpatient care, in-home therapy, community and school-based services, and substance abuse counseling. My goal is to meet each client where they are, build a caring relationship, and walk alongside them as they discover their strengths and find healthier ways to cope.
In our first session, we’ll start by talking about what brought you to therapy and what you’d like to get out of our work together. I’ll ask questions to better understand your concerns, history, and goals, while also giving you space to share at your own pace. We’ll discuss how I work, answer any questions you have, and begin identifying the first steps toward change. My goal is for you to leave feeling heard, understood, and hopeful about the process ahead.
One of my greatest strengths as a counselor is creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients feel safe, valued, and understood. I’m dedicated to building trust and forming a strong therapeutic relationship, which allows clients to feel supported as they explore difficult emotions and challenges. I also bring flexibility to my work, tailoring my approach to each client’s unique needs and drawing from a variety of therapeutic techniques. Above all, I strive to connect with clients on a genuine, personal level while maintaining a professional, solution-focused perspective, helping them feel empowered and confident as they move forward in their journey.
My ideal clients often struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, people-pleasing behaviors, setting boundaries and identity issues. Many are at a point where they feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected — from themselves or others — and are seeking meaningful change. These clients are open to self-reflection and motivated to build new tools for emotional regulation, communication, boundary-setting, and healing. Whether you're navigating past trauma, life transitions, or just yearning for a more authentic life, I am here to walk alongside you with compassion, insight, and support. If you’re committed to doing the work — even when it’s uncomfortable — and ready to shift from surviving to thriving, we may be a great fit.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a practical, goal-focused approach that helps you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. When negative thoughts or patterns keep you feeling stuck, CBT teaches you skills to challenge them and choose healthier responses. In sessions, we’ll work together to identify unhelpful thinking, practice coping strategies, and apply new tools in daily life. The goal is to help you feel more in control, reduce distress, and create lasting change.
Motivational Interviewing is woven in to enhance readiness for change. Through open-ended questions, reflective listening, and affirmations, MI empowers clients to explore ambivalence, strengthen self-motivation, and move toward goals at their own pace. Together, Trauma-Informed CBT and MI provide a respectful, collaborative pathway to healing and growth.
Trauma-Informed CBT blends traditional cognitive behavioral strategies with an understanding of how trauma impacts the brain, body, and behavior. It emphasizes safety, trust, empowerment, and pacing—ensuring clients never feel pushed beyond their readiness. The approach helps identify unhelpful thought patterns, regulate emotions, and build healthier coping skills.
6 ratings with written reviews
May 30, 2025
I had a great session with Michelle. She unpacked a lot in an hour. I look forward to our next meeting.
May 12, 2025
I started working with Michelle because I was looking for a new therapist that was EMDR trained. She has been great so far (5 sessions in). I feel like we have a strong understanding of each other. I really like that she allows me time to process and isn't pushy during our sessions.
April 24, 2025
Working with Michele has been truly transformative. She brings a rare combination of warmth, authenticity, and intelligence that immediately puts me at ease. Michele's direct approach is empowering, she listens and guides with clarity and purpose, all while remaining deeply respectful and open-minded. Every session feels like a safe space to explore hard truths and make real progress. I'm incredibly grateful for the insight, compassion and support. I feel seen, understood and heard.