Michelle received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Duke University in 1995 and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Carolina in 1998. Michelle is licensed as a clinical social worker (License #C009066) through the North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board (NCSWCLB). Michelle has been providing services for children, adults, and families for over twenty years. 

Michelle has worked in a number of settings with a variety of client populations over her years as a clinical social worker. Her most recent work experience is as a Clinical Social Worker for Moses Cone serving children’s inpatient medical services. Michelle has over twelve years of experience as an outpatient therapist, with seven of those years working for an integrated community mental health clinic and five years as a private practice provider. Additional work experiences include: residential treatment center counselor, community prevention and education specialist, and medical social worker serving adults. Michelle has worked in schools, community centers, medical outpatient offices, behavioral health outpatient offices, and hospital settings. 

While Michelle has worked in a variety of settings, the focus of her past experiences has been in working with children and families. Michelle has extensive training and experience in trauma treatment and was selected to be among the first cohort of therapists in Tennessee to receive intensive training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (2006). In addition to treatment for all kinds of trauma, Michelle has experience and training in treating: depression and anxiety (including post partem mood and anxiety disorders), issues of grief and loss, sexual and physical abuse, domestic violence, relationship issues, and issues related to adjustments and life transitions. 

Michelle understands and honors that seeking treatment is a big step for any individual, parent, family, or couple. Michelle is here to meet her clients where they are and to offer compassionate support as you work toward your goals. Her services are always client centered, with your needs at the center of all that she does. Michelle utilizes a variety of techniques, from art and play therapy, to family systems, solution focused and cognitive behavioral methods. She understands that while counseling offers tremendous benefits, there are also risks that must be considered. Openly discussing life’s challenges can lead to a host of feelings: sadness, anger, confusion, shame and loneliness. Michelle sees it as her privilege to walk with you through these hard places and to offer you the support needed to help you achieve the healing and growth that will lead to your best self.