Meet Michelle Verheyen, LPC
The best views come after the most challenging climbs.
EMDR Counselor
Becoming a counselor is more than a job to me. It is a calling and a privilege to sit with people, hear their stories, support them through their challenges, and empower them on their path to mental wellness.
My first career was in the business world. While I enjoyed it, I often felt something was missing. What was missing was the sense of meaning and purpose that comes from having a personal impact on peoples’ lives. I took a career sabbatical to raise a family. As my children entered their teen years, I became more attuned to the challenges teens face in today’s world. I want to help people face those challenges, providing them with an opportunity to live authentically and become the person they want to be.
What interests me in teen counseling is that if people can enter counseling early, it can save them years of suffering. My goal is to work with young people and encourage them to explore their thoughts, motivations, values, and behaviors. I hope to help them transition into young adulthood with insight and coping skills for optimal mental health. My goal is to provide a space where teens feel welcomed and understood, knowing they can express their feelings, experiences, and thoughts in a confidential space. I also hope to help teens navigate the world as they grow and find their authentic voice.
Authenticity allows us to connect with one another.
To be authentic is to be courageous, vulnerable, and let your inner self be visible.
I believe that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Going to counseling can be thought of as giving your mind the gift of health. A healthier mind can reward you with confidence, peace, motivation, and balance.
Tidbits about Michelle Verheyen
Master’s Degree
Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University
Clinical License
LPC – 178.017861
Recreational Activities
Favorite Activity: Hiking in the mountains
Favorite Food: Pizza
Favorite Movie: Life is Beautiful
Favorite Children’s Book: The Velveteen Rabbit
Favorite Animal: Dogs
Hobbies/Interests
Travel
Playing piano
Attending musicals and plays
Michelle Veryheyen’s Experience
With my experience in counseling children, teens, emerging adults, and adults, I have successfully helped individuals of all ages navigate through anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, and personal growth. Together, we will develop a personalized and meaningful approach for you. Our sessions may involve traditional talk therapy or more unconventional activities such as playing games, creating crafts, or taking a walk outdoors.
I embrace an eclectic approach to therapy, integrating various therapeutic techniques to tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs. This flexible approach draws from several proven techniques, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Each of these techniques has its own unique benefits, and by integrating them, I can provide a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan. EMDR helps clients heal from trauma, anxiety, and other challenges by reprocessing distressing memories and emotions. ACT encourages acceptance of thoughts and commitment to values-based actions, while DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness to manage emotions and improve relationships. CBT focuses on replacing negative thought patterns with more positive, realistic ones.
This comprehensive approach effectively addresses each client’s unique needs. My goal is to provide a deeply supportive and empathetic environment where clients feel truly heard and empowered to achieve meaningful change. I understand that the journey towards healing can be challenging, and I am here to provide support and guidance.
Michelle Verheyen’s Ultimate Goal
My ultimate goal is for my clients is to feel proud they are taking steps to improve their mental health. I hope my clients leave feeling lighter, less burdened, and optimistic that they have the power within themselves to live authentically and cope with life’s challenges.