Michelle Santos

I believe therapy should be a space where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted for who you are. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I have years of experience supporting teens, young adults, and families as they navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, identity exploration, relationships, and life's many transitions.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. I strive to create a space where you can show up as your authentic self, without judgment or pressure to have everything figured out. I'm especially passionate about providing LGBTQ+ affirming care and helping individuals build confidence, strengthen their sense of self, and navigate challenges in ways that feel meaningful to them.

I blend evidence-based approaches like CBT, solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed care with creativity, compassion, and a little humor when appropriate. I believe therapy isn't one-size-fits-all, and we'll work together to find what feels right for you.

My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and rooted in the belief that you are the expert on your own experiences. I strive to create a comfortable, judgment-free space where you can explore your emotions, better understand yourself, and work through life's challenges at your own pace.

I draw from evidence-based approaches such as CBT, solution-focused therapy, and trauma-informed care, while incorporating creativity and practical tools that fit your individual needs. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, identity exploration, or relationship challenges, we'll work together to recognize patterns, build healthy coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change.

I believe therapy should feel like a partnership, one where you feel supported, empowered, and encouraged to grow into the version of yourself you want to be.

Our first session is all about getting to know you and what brings you to therapy. We'll talk about what you've been experiencing, what you'd like to work on, and what you hope to gain from our time together. I'll ask questions to better understand your background, experiences, and goals, but there's no pressure to share everything at once.

I know starting therapy can feel intimidating, so my priority is helping you feel comfortable, heard, and supported. We'll move at a pace that feels right for you, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and share what you need from me as your therapist.

By the end of our first session, my hope is that you'll feel a little more at ease, have a clearer sense of what our work together might look like, and feel confident that we're building a space where you can truly be yourself.