Michelle Emode , LMHC

Michelle Emode is a New York based licensed mental health counselor with six years of clinical experience working primarily with adults facing substance use and related challenges. She holds the LMHC credential - Licensed Mental Health Counselor - and a Master CASAC, a credential for professionals who address substance use disorders. Michelle combines evidence-based techniques with a collaborative, person-centered stance to support clients as they address depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and the practical stressors of life changes.

Her practice includes both individual and group counseling, with a focus on helping people explore the underlying factors that contribute to substance use. She draws on cognitive behavioral strategies, solution-focused work, and motivational interviewing to help clients identify patterns, build coping skills, and set realistic goals. Michelle has worked with clients aged 18 and older and attends to co-occurring concerns such as grief, parenting stress, intimacy-related issues, and process addictions.

Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is central to Michelle's approach. She prioritizes getting to know each person, creating a supportive environment where they can examine emotions and past experiences while developing practical tools for change. Michelle finds professional fulfillment in witnessing clients make progress and reclaim a sense of agency in their lives.

Approach-Focused Care Delivered Online

Michelle uses a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing to support clients through online sessions. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes understanding each person from their own perspective and building a strong therapeutic relationship so clients feel heard and respected; it is helpful for general life stress, relationship concerns, and building self-esteem. CBT focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and developing practical skills to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress; it works well for people seeking strategies to change patterns that interfere with daily functioning. Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative, nonjudgmental method to explore readiness for change and strengthen motivation, often used with substance use and behavior change goals.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Michelle will work with clients to clarify goals, try different techniques when needed, and tailor her methods to match personal needs and preferences. This collaborative stance helps clients feel involved in shaping their care.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to engage - through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging - which can make it easier to fit sessions into busy schedules or to connect from different locations. These options support continuity of care and allow therapists and clients to focus on progress and practical tools regardless of distance.