Michelle Saigeon

LMSW-C

Many of the techniques I use with my clients are those that I have benefited from myself. It’s important to me to fully understand the techniques that I’m using, and to have a felt sense of what I’m asking my clients to experience, when possible. I’ve been fortunate to work with great therapists, naturopaths, and doctors to address areas of my life that I wanted to change/shift. I’ve experienced EMDR therapy and was so impressed with it that I signed up for training to be able to facilitate it with my clients. My most meaningful experience in my own personal therapy was counseling with a naturopath who facilitated Holistic Counseling and energy work (I do not currently study or practice energy work). I use CBT in my own daily life to manage anxiety/depression and mindfulness for overall mental wellness and presence and gratitude.

I’ve always been curious about how other people work! I was lucky enough to have a psychology class in high school, and I adored my teacher. Also, at that time in my life, I was the friend that others confided in and it always felt right being in that supportive role. I chose psychology as my major in college and found my courses so interesting. When I decided to go to graduate school, I chose social work because it allowed me to take my career in a clinical direction, but also focus on social justice. While I am still curious to learn how others work, I’ve developed more of a passion for helping others to understand how they work and to find ways to feel comfortable and at ease within themselves. I’m a sensitive person and while that can sometimes make life feel overwhelming, it comes with a gift to be able to tune into others with empathy and I find value in sharing that gift!

I have an easygoing, sensitive, and nurturing personality, and I bring that to sessions. We will undoubtedly laugh and even cry together. I want to create a space where you feel seen and supported…maybe for the first time in your life. I believe, and research shows, the connection between therapist and client plays a central role in the healing process. My focus is on building a relationship rooted in empathy, collaboration, and emotional safety. As a person-centered therapist, I provide empathy, genuineness and unconditional positive regard to help facilitate change. I follow your lead whenever possible, offering support, guidance, and structure so that you can discover solutions within yourself and achieve personal growth and self-actualization.