Interview with Michelle Howard, LMSW

Michelle Howard, LMSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing at our East Location in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michelle is passionate about working with clients of all ages dealing with a wide range of mental health concerns. Contact us to schedule an intake appointment with Michelle.

1. What is your specialty?

I specialize in working with clients who are coping with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, as well as relationship and attachment issues.

2. What made you want to become a therapist?

I have a trauma history and began healing through trusting and working with a therapist. I know personally the power that therapy can have. My aim is to assist others on their journey.

3. What can clients expect when they first come to therapy? What is a typical therapy session like with you?

The first session will be a bit different than the rest. Initially I like to ask a variety of questions, particularly about trauma, family history, relationship history and have a discussion about goals. Gathering this information in the beginning will be helpful for me to provide the best clinical care to you. After this initial session it is more client guided, meaning I will take your lead. My aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental and welcoming environment for you. One of the most important things for this process is a strong client-therapist relationship. I welcome feedback to ensure you are getting the most out of the process. I may also ask reflective and clarifying questions to ensure that I am understanding and following.

4. How have you seen therapy be helpful to your clients?

I like to provide a lot of psychoeducation to clients so that they have a better understanding of why they may be feeling or reacting in different ways to stimuli or stressors. I have seen how my ability to help process a situation or reframe an experience is helpful for a client. I have received consistent feedback from clients that they feel heard, seen and validated during our sessions. I have also witnessed clients set boundaries with loved ones, become open to new concepts and ideas, try things they had been scared to do and create meaningful change in a relationship.

5. What do you think are the most important considerations when looking for a therapist?

I think the most important considerations when looking for a therapist are the feeling of safety, being able to trust your therapist and being open. There should also be a shared understanding and willingness to work together toward client centered goals.

6. What do you hope your clients walk away with?

I hope that clients walk away with trust in themselves, a better understanding of what they need and belief that things get better. You are capable and able to create the life you envision for yourself.

 

Visit Michelle’s profile to learn more about her counseling services, or to schedule an appointment.