Michelle Winkelman

If you feel disconnected from yourself, hyper-vigilant, or just completely overwhelmed, I want you to know your feelings make sense, you are heard, and you are worthy of the peace you seek. I firmly believe that healing process occurs when you feel truly understood, safe, and empowered. Since earning my Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from CUNY Hunter College in 2018, I have spent eight years supporting teenagers and adults through life's ups and downs across various community and treatment settings.

My goal is to provide a culturally sensitive, welcoming, and judgement free space where you can be your authentic self. Your background, race, ethnicity, gender identity, and sexual orientation are always honored and respected here.

We are partners in this process. My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and strengths-based, meaning your emotional safety, comfort, and pacing always come first. Together, we will explore the tools and resilience you already have inside you, moving at a speed that feels right for your life.

To support your mind and body, my counseling style is based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) tools to manage intense or distressing thoughts and emotions, alongside mindfulness practices to help you feel more grounded and connected to your body.

I have worked alongside teens and adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including symptoms of anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder; trauma, childhood adversity, family conflict, relationship issues, and stress; as well as life transitions, legal and socioeconomic concerns, substance use and recovery, gender identity and expression, domestic violence, and chronic health conditions.

Choosing to engage in therapy is a profound act of self-compassion. I view therapy as a warm, safe partnership where your voice, boundaries, and autonomy lead the way. You decide what to share and when to share it. You set the speed and work entirely at your own pace. There is never any forced sharing, and you will never be pushed to reveal more details than you are ready to explore. You remain the expert on your own life, while I am here to provide the tools and support. Through a gentle, strengths-based approach, we work together to build a strong relationship that supports your goals and respects your whole, authentic self. I believe in this work because I see its power every day and witness the resiliency of the human spirit. I am here to walk alongside you with compassion and renewed hope whenever you are ready.

You are never alone in what brings you here. Navigating life’s challenges and asking for help takes immense courage. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and you may be feeling nervous about this process. I want you to know that your feelings are valid and we will take this journey entirely at your pace, focusing on what you need most. My goal is to meet you exactly where you are without any pressure or expectations.