Dr. Michelle Cruz

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, New York, and Colorado, with clinical experience dating to 2018 and a professional background that includes 20 years of service with the New York City Police Department. My experience in law enforcement, crisis response, and mental health counseling has given me a unique understanding of trauma, resilience, and the emotional challenges individuals face.

I hold a master's degree in mental health counseling and am pursuing doctoral studies in Integrative Medicine. I have training in multiple therapeutic modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and trauma-focused approaches.

I specialize in working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, PTSD, trauma, and significant life transitions. I also understand the unique challenges faced by first responders, professionals, and individuals managing high levels of responsibility.

My philosophy embraces a whole-person approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. For clients who desire it, I also welcome the integration of Christian faith and spiritual values into the therapeutic process.

Above all, I believe therapy should provide a compassionate, collaborative space where individuals feel heard, respected, and empowered to achieve meaningful change.

My therapeutic approach is integrative, solution-focused, and person-centered, grounded in compassion, genuine understanding, and respect for each individual's experiences. I believe meaningful change begins from within, through developing self-awareness, identifying underlying patterns, and understanding the connection between thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being.

I create a collaborative environment where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to explore their challenges without judgment. Drawing from evidence-based approaches, including CBT, EMDR, and trauma-informed interventions, I tailor treatment to each client's unique needs and goals.

My focus is not only on alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression, panic, and trauma, but also on equipping clients with practical tools to strengthen resilience, develop healthier coping strategies, and create sustainable change.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and begin understanding what brings you to therapy. I provide a welcoming, compassionate, and judgment-free environment where you can share your concerns at a pace that feels comfortable.

We will explore your current challenges, relevant personal history, strengths, and goals for treatment. Together, we will begin identifying patterns that may be contributing to emotional distress and discuss an individualized approach to addressing your needs.

My goal is for you to leave your first session feeling heard, respected, and supported, with a clearer understanding of how we can work together. As therapy progresses, I will help you develop practical strategies for managing symptoms, strengthening emotional resilience, and moving toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.