Michelle Ross , LPC

Michelle Ross is a licensed professional counselor who helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, and LGBTQ concerns. She brings a straightforward approach and aims to create space for people to talk through hard moments and make practical changes.

She has four years of clinical experience and works with teens and adults who report mood and trauma-related struggles. Michelle emphasizes clear skills and step-by-step tools that people can use between sessions. She also supports people wrestling with identity, gender dysphoria, and the effects of abuse or abandonment.

Michelle trained in clinical psychology and completed a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University with an emphasis in marriage and family counseling. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology from the University of Idaho and a Bachelor of Arts in German Language and Literature from the University of Oregon. Before returning to school she served four years in the Navy as a Machinist Mate and reached the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class.

Her work draws on several practical methods, including cognitive behavioral techniques, dialectical behavior strategies, EMDR approaches, and mindfulness. She aims to tailor these tools to each person's goals rather than using a single formula.

Michelle describes therapy as a collaborative process. She helps people identify priorities, try new ways of coping, and practice skills that reduce distress and improve day-to-day functioning.

How evidence-based approaches translate to online care

Michelle often uses cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy when working with mood and trauma-related difficulties. Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and trying small behavior changes to reduce symptoms and improve daily routines. Dialectical behavior therapy offers skills for regulating intense emotions, improving distress tolerance, and strengthening interpersonal effectiveness.

Finding the right approach is part of the process and she works collaboratively to determine what fits each person. Together they set goals, try different techniques, and adjust the plan based on what is helpful and what is not. That way the work stays aligned with the client's needs and preferences.

Online sessions can be done by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to match different situations. Video calls let people use visual cues and practice skills in real time. Phone sessions can be a good option when bandwidth is limited or when someone prefers not to be on camera. Live chat and text work well for shorter check-ins, skill coaching, or steady support between longer sessions. Overall, these formats offer flexibility to fit therapy into a busy life.