Michael Ricci

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), doctoral candidate, former High School English teacher, and former school counselor, I bring a diverse range of professional experiences and a genuine passion for helping others, while understanding how difficult it can be to face life's challenges and find the strength to overcome them. I am far from a robotic therapist and believe in taking a personable, down-to-earth approach where you feel comfortable being yourself, expressing your thoughts without judgment, and even sharing a few good laughs along the way. Together, we will work toward achieving your goals, experiencing meaningful personal growth, feeling better about yourself, and developing the tools to continue making positive changes both inside and outside of our sessions. Regardless of your age or background, my diverse experience in education and mental health counseling allows me to meet you where you are, support your personal growth, and work alongside you toward a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.

My therapeutic approach is rooted in humanistic principles, emphasizing the importance of building genuine rapport, mutual trust, and a positive therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, valued, and supported throughout their mental health journey without fear of judgment. I strive to create a welcoming and comfortable environment where clients look forward to each session, experience meaningful personal growth, and feel empowered to apply what they learn both inside and outside of therapy.

During our initial session, my goal is to begin getting to know you as an individual, understand the challenges you may be experiencing, and explore what you would like to work on throughout your mental health journey. Equally important, I aim to establish trust, build positive rapport, and develop a genuine connection where you feel comfortable expressing yourself openly without fear of judgment. I also encourage clients to take this opportunity to learn more about me, ask questions, express any concerns, and gain a better understanding of my therapeutic approach, as I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience built on mutual trust, respect, and open communication. Together, we will begin identifying your needs, discussing your goals, and creating a supportive foundation for meaningful personal growth and progress both inside and outside of our sessions.