Michelle Ely , LCSW

Michelle Ely is licensed to practice social work in both California and Alaska and has 29 years of professional experience in the social work field, including six years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). As an LCSW she provides clinical care informed by years of practice and training, focusing on helping people move past traumatic experiences, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve relationships and parenting. She also works with clients on anger management issues.

Her therapeutic manner is warm, interactive, and direct. She approaches each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, adapting methods to fit the needs of the individual rather than applying a single formula. This eclectic stance means interventions are chosen to match a client’s situation and goals, emphasizing practical strategies that support change.

Michelle believes that each person is the expert on their own story and that existing strengths are central to overcoming life’s challenges. She acknowledges that beginning therapy takes courage and affirms clients for taking that first step, offering support as they work toward their goals.

Evidence-Based Techniques and Accessible Online Care

Michelle Ely uses evidence-based strategies tailored to the concerns a person brings to therapy. She often draws on skills-focused approaches that teach practical coping techniques for managing stress, anxiety, and anger, helping clients build tools they can use between sessions. She also uses trauma-informed practices that recognize and respond to the effects of past traumatic experiences, supporting healing at a pace that feels safe and manageable. Relationship-focused interventions are used when addressing communication, parenting, and intimacy-related issues, helping partners and families develop clearer understanding and healthier patterns.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Michelle works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences. That collaborative process helps ensure care feels relevant and effective for the individual.

Online therapy offers practical benefits for people seeking flexibility and access. Video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, reduce travel time, and maintain continuity of care regardless of location. Licensed professionals can use these formats to deliver structured, evidence-based support while accommodating different communication preferences.