Michelle Vernon, LMFT — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Michelle!

I believe we all have the potential to be self-healers. I'm gender and LGBTQIA+ affirming, and I specialize in working with adults who've suffered from trauma, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, panic disorders, communication issues, addiction, and identity confusion.

My focus

I work with adults and have treated PTSD, Acute Stress Disorder, generalized and social anxiety, major depression, dysthymia, personality disorders, gender dysphoria, panic disorder and agoraphobia, and addiction.

My approach

I come from a Gestalt and Humanistic approach to therapy. I believe that healing can be found in connection and in the therapeutic relationship. I consider my style compassionately assertive and will be your mirror in our therapeutic alliance.

My communication style

My style is very comfortable and informal. I think the best work happens when there's a sense of comfort and safety and an opportunity for authentic connection. I'm a believer in transparency and providing feedback and observations often.

My goals for you

Clients identify the problems that they feel ready to work on, and we co-create and collaborate on solutions, even if that means just having someone to sit with you while you process dark times.

Our first session

I believe establishing rapport is crucial in building trust and safety, so I'll have lots of questions about your experiences, your goals, your relationships, and how therapy can help make life more manageable. Icebreakers, puns, dad jokes, and humor are always welcome!

I identify as...

Female, Cis
Caucasian or White, Hispanic or Latinx, Biracial or Multiracial

Expertise

Specialties

Personality Disorders

+ 17 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Motivational Interviewing

Play Therapy

+ 9 more

Focus populations

BIPOC

Body Positivity

Deaf

First Generation American/Immigrant Parents

Gay

Intersex

LGBTQIA+

Lesbian

Military/Veterans

Non-Binary

Open Relationships/Non-Monogamy

Police/Fire/First Responders

Queer

Racial Justice

Recovery/12 Step Friendly

Sex Worker

Sex-Positive/Kink

Single Mother

Transgender

+ 19 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 56 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Masters of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from National University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Michelle Vernon