Michelle Kauffman, LPC

 Michelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor and who completed a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. During her residency program, she gained valuable experience by working in outpatient practices as well as in an acute child and adolescent psychiatric unit located in Lynchburg, Virginia. During her time in these settings, she developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals seeking mental health treatment, particularly among children and adolescents. This hands-on experience allowed her to enhance her clinical skills and knowledge in the field of counseling, enabling her to better serve the diverse needs of her patients.

She has accumulated a wealth of experience through her work with individuals of all ages, from children to adults. In her clinical practice, she has treated a wide range of mental health issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and life transitions. Her expertise in these areas has allowed her to tailor her treatment approach to meet the unique needs of each individual client, helping them navigate their challenges and move towards a place of healing and growth.

Michelle has undergone extensive training in eye movement desensitization reprocessing therapy (EMDR), a highly effective form of psychotherapy that is used to treat individuals who have experienced traumatic events. She has dedicated countless hours to mastering the techniques and methodologies involved in EMDR, which has allowed her to assist numerous clients in processing and resolving their trauma. Additionally, Michelle is currently in the process of obtaining certification as a certified EMDR therapist through EMDRIA (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing International Association), a prestigious organization that sets the standard for excellence in the field of EMDR therapy. Through her commitment to ongoing education and professional development, she strives to provide the highest quality care to those in need of trauma therapy.

In addition to her expertise in traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, she also incorporates trauma-focused approaches into her therapy sessions. Furthermore, she has completed coursework with prestigious organizations such as IAEDP (International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals) and the National Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders. These specialized trainings have equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively address the unique challenges faced by individuals struggling with eating disorders.

Michelle firmly believes in utilizing a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to counseling that considers the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of an individual’s well-being. This holistic perspective allows her to address the diverse and interconnected dimensions of her clients’ lives, leading to a more effective and personalized therapeutic experience. Furthermore, Michelle is dedicated to establishing a safe and compassionate environment where clients can feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment. By fostering a non-judgmental space, she creates a foundation for open and honest communication, essential for growth and healing.

Moreover, Michelle is deeply committed to integrating evidence-based therapeutic techniques with her clients’ spiritual beliefs and practices. By acknowledging and respecting the spiritual dimensions of each individual, she is able to tailor her counseling approach to align with their unique belief systems and values. This personalized approach not only enhances the therapeutic process but also fosters a deeper sense of connection and understanding between Michelle and her clients. Through this integration of spirituality and evidence-based treatments, Michelle empowers her clients to explore and nurture their spiritual well-being while addressing their emotional and mental health needs.

Additionally, Michelle recognizes that counseling is a highly individualized process that varies from person to person. She understands that each client possesses their own set of goals, challenges, and strengths, requiring a customized approach to therapy. In recognizing the uniqueness of each individual, Michelle actively collaborates with her clients to develop personalized treatment plans that are tailored to their specific needs and objectives. By fostering a partnership based on mutual respect and collaboration, she empowers her clients to take an active role in their healing journey, working together towards achieving their desired outcomes.

In her leisure hours, she finds immense pleasure in a variety of activities including delving into the pages of a good book, exploring the great outdoors through invigorating hikes, honing her culinary skills by experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, pushing her physical limits through rigorous training sessions for upcoming triathlon races, and cherishing quality time spent with loved ones, be it with close friends or beloved family members.