Our Team
Michelle Bella
Belief
I believe that building a strong, trusting relationship with my clients is one of the most important factors in the success of therapy. Establishing this connection creates a safe and supportive environment where clients feel understood and valued. I also believe that every individual possesses an inherent capacity for growth and change. Each person has unique strengths and resources that, when nurtured, can lead to meaningful personal transformation.
However, I recognize that every individual is different and brings their own perspectives, experiences, and challenges to therapy. This diversity is why I am committed to tailoring my approach to each client’s unique needs and circumstances. By being flexible and responsive to these differences, I aim to provide personalized support that respects and leverages each client's individuality. This individualized approach ensures that therapy is relevant and effective, helping clients to achieve their goals in a way that resonates with their personal values and life context.
Approach
My approach to counselling is integrative and deeply client-centred. I believe you know yourself best, and my role is to support and guide you through your own unique journey. Drawing from cognitive-behavioural therapy, solution-focused and emotion-focused approaches, as well as somatic and attachment-based strategies, I tailor our work to meet you where you are. Using a strengths-based and goal-oriented lens, I aim to help you build resilience, develop practical coping strategies, and move forward with a stronger sense of clarity, confidence, and self-trust. Together, we will work towards creating meaningful, lasting change in your life.
I have a special interest in the early identification and support of ADHD, particularly in women and girls, a group often overlooked or misdiagnosed. This continues to be a meaningful focus in my work as I aim to increase awareness and promote better outcomes for those affected.
I hold a master’s degree in counselling psychology with honours from Athabasca University. I am a registered provisional psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists and the Psychological Association of Alberta.
Background
My background experience consists of working within the human services field primarily alongside vulnerable populations, including those experiencing incarceration, homelessness and addiction. Additionally, I volunteered on the distress line, where I assisted numerous individuals in crisis. This role allowed me to provide emotional support, offer resources, and help callers navigate their challenges, fostering a sense of hope and empowerment. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the complexities of mental health and reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate, effective care to those in need.
In my spare time, I find joy in connecting with my loved ones, whether it's spending quality time with family, catching up with friends, or embarking on outdoor adventures with my two beloved dogs. Exploring the beauty of nature fuels my sense of adventure, and I'm always eager to immerse myself in new experiences and discoveries. Whether it's hiking through scenic trails, camping under the stars, or simply taking a stroll in the park, I cherish the tranquillity and rejuvenation that nature brings.
Therapeutic Modalities:
Presenting Problems
Adjustment Problems
Anger Management
Bullying
Career
ODD/Behavioural Problems
Personality Issues
Self-Injury
Work-related problems
Blended Families
Communication Issues
Child-parent relationships
Phobias
For more information,
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More About My specialties
[ Open All | Close All ]Adults
I use an integrative approach, drawing from a range of evidence-based practices to meet your unique needs. Life’s challenges can bring emotional distress, and by taking time to reflect on the underlying causes, we can promote self-understanding, strengthen emotional regulation, and reduce repeated patterns of distress. Together, we will work to uncover new perspectives, build on your strengths, and develop effective strategies that support clarity, confidence, and lasting well-being.
Teens
... I strive to create a supportive space where teens feel heard, respected, and safe to express themselves openly. Using developmentally appropriate strategies, I help teens explore the underlying causes of their emotional distress and build greater self-awareness. My goal is to support teens in building resilience, confidence, and a stronger sense of self as they navigate this important stage of life.
Children
My goal is to equip each child with tools they can carry with them to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence. I value collaboration with caregivers and believe that supporting a child also means supporting the family system. Whether your child is experiencing anxiety, emotional outbursts, difficulties with transitions, or challenges at school, I work with you to create a plan that fits their unique needs and personality.
Trauma
My approach is trauma-informed, which means I pay close attention to how trauma can show up in the body, mind, and relationships. I move at your pace and honour your story, always centring your sense of agency and choice in the process. I spent a couple of years volunteering on the distress line, which shaped how I show up for clients, present, calm, and open to whatever someone is carrying. Healing does not look the same for everyone, and I try to meet each person where they are.
LGBTQ+
I understand that sharing your experiences can take time, and I do my best to meet you with care, curiosity, and respect. My role is to listen without judgment and to offer a space where you can speak freely, whether you are processing pain, exploring identity, or simply looking for a safe place to land.
Join us in our webinar with Michelle Bella on ADHD in women: explore unique challenges, misdiagnosis, mental health impact, barriers to care, and effective strategies.