Sitting in advisory class one random day during my senior year in high school was the start of my clinical journey! While chatting with a friend, she said, “Michelle you should be a therapist because you’re always helping others with their problems.” So it began: I’d applied to colleges as an education major but once on campus switched to psychology. For as long as I can remember, I’ve liked helping others. I also respect and value listening to others—actually allowing them space to be heard. While exploring my options for graduate programs, social work just spoke to the heart of who I am—understanding the person within their environment. After graduating college, I worked in a residential facility for children and youth in foster care. I learned so much about people and myself during that experience. I began to put into perspective the value of both nature (our biology) and nurture (our environment and upbringing) as they both shape us.

I believe life isn't always a smooth ride, but it's how we navigate the bumps that truly define us. I firmly believe in the power of human connection, self-discovery, and the incredible resilience we all possess within us. My approach is all about authenticity, warmth, and creating a safe space where you can truly be yourself; together, we'll explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with curiosity and compassion, uncovering insights and strategies to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I integrate evidence-based practices with a person-centered approach, tailoring each session to meet your specific needs and goals. We will collaboratively develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique goals and needs. Between sessions, you may be encouraged to engage in homework assignments or reflective exercises to deepen your understanding and enhance your progress.

My approach to mental health care is deeply influenced by my core values of compassion, authenticity, and respect for diversity. These values guide every aspect of my work, from the way I build therapeutic relationships to the interventions I employ. Compassion forms the foundation of my therapeutic approach. I believe in meeting clients where they are, with empathy and understanding, creating a safe space where they feel heard and valued. Authenticity is essential in fostering genuine connections with clients, allowing for open and honest communication. By embracing diversity, I aim to create a culturally responsive environment where all clients feel seen, heard, and respected. I recognize the intersectionality of identities and the importance of cultural humility in understanding each client's lived experiences. Overall, my core values guide me in providing client-centered therapy that is compassionate, authentic, and culturally sensitive.

In the evolving mental health landscape, one of the most inspiring developments is the gradual reduction of mental health stigma. As a mental health therapist, I'm deeply passionate about this positive shift and its implications for individuals, families, and communities. Witnessing the reduction of mental health stigma is incredibly exciting because it signifies a growing acceptance and understanding of mental health challenges as a normal part of the human experience. This shift opens the door to more open conversations, increased access to resources, and greater willingness to seek help when needed. I am thrilled to see individuals feeling more empowered to prioritize their mental well-being without fear of judgment or discrimination. This shift not only benefits those currently struggling with mental health issues but also encourages preventative measures and proactive self-care practices.