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Michelle Bella
Clients Michelle Works With
ChildrenTeenAdult
Areas of Practice AbuseADHDAnxietyBlended FamiliesDepressionGrief/LossLife Adjustment/TransitionOCDParentingPersonal Development/GrowthPTSDRelationship ProblemsSelf-Esteem/Self-CompassionSeparation and DivorceStress/BurnoutTraumaWomen's Health Counseling
Child-Parent Relationships|Anger Management|Behaviour problems|Bullying|Career/Vocation|Communication|Loneliness/Isolation|Personality Issues|Phobias|Self-Injury|Sleep problems|Work - Related Problems

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.

Michelle’s approach integrates:

Attachment-Based Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Narrative
Person-Centered Therapy
Trauma-Informed

Background

Michelle holds a master’s degree in counselling psychology with honours from Athabasca University. She is a registered provisional psychologist in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists and the Psychological Association of Alberta.

Her background experience consists of working within the human services field primarily alongside vulnerable populations, including those experiencing incarceration, homelessness and addiction. Additionally, she volunteered on the distress line, where she assisted numerous individuals in crisis. This role allowed her to provide emotional support, offer resources, and help callers navigate their challenges, fostering a sense of hope and empowerment. These experiences have deepened her understanding of the complexities of mental health and reinforced her commitment to providing compassionate, effective care to those in need.

In her spare time, Michelle finds joy in connecting with her loved ones, whether it’s spending quality time with family, catching up with friends, or embarking on outdoor adventures with her two beloved dogs. Exploring the beauty of nature fuels her sense of adventure, and she’s always eager to immerse herself in new experiences and discoveries.

Favorite Quote

“It’s the moment you think you can’t, that you can.”
— Celine Dion

Wellness Matters Videos

See Michelle’s talks below to get to know her and an area she often works with in therapy

How Michelle works with…

Children
My approach to working with children centers on creating a safe, supportive space where they feel heard and understood. I use play-based interventions grounded in play therapy to help children express themselves, build emotional awareness, and develop healthy coping skills. 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.
Adolescent / Teen
I bring this same compassionate, reflective approach to my work with teens. Adolescence can be a time of emotional intensity, identity exploration, and social pressure, which can contribute to feelings of confusion, anxiety, or self-doubt. 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.
Trauma/PTSD
My work with individuals who have experienced trauma is focused on creating a space that feels safe, grounded, and non-judgmental. 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+ and Gender Identity
I am committed to creating a space where individuals from the LGBTQ+ community feel seen, safe, and supported. 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.
We’ll help you find the right fit.

Our client care team works with each new client to ensure they are matched to the right therapist.

It’s essential to find a therapist who aligns with your unique needs and preferences. If you’re unsure where to begin, you don’t have to figure it out alone.