Therapist Michelle Durham Photo

Michelle Durham, LPC

Addictions LGBTQ+ Relationships Trauma, Abuse Compassion fatigue
Video Phone Live Chat Messaging

About me

Welcome! My name is Michelle and I am a licensed professional counselor in Washington, DC. I have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. The majority of my work has been in nonprofit, community-based settings providing direct services and counseling to individuals living with life challenges such as severe and persistent mental illness (depression, anxiety, delusional and bipolar disorders), unemployment, substance abuse, trauma, chronic homelessness, self-esteem, relationship and family issues, among other challenges. My experience with such a diverse population has allowed me to build a skill set that enables me to connect closely with those with whom I work. I also have extensive experience working with those fleeing domestic violence, formerly incarcerated individuals, as well as those exiting the foster care system.

I work from a strength-based perspective using a client-centered, holistic approach that encompasses relevant cultural aspects. When applicable, I will use an integrative approach that includes evidence based techniques such as those found in solution-focused counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy; and motivational interviewing. Above all, I promote self-care and am able to explore creative ways to establish a self-care plan that is best for you. I have also completed TREM training for women (Trauma Recovery and Empowerment Model) and training in providing trauma-informed care. I believe that while I provide the framework, treatment is driven by you. Joining you where you are in that moment is the best way to determine your path to healing. This encompasses your lifestyle choices as well as your unique cultural experiences.

My counseling style is warm, open, and approachable. It is my belief that our collaborative effort is key to making the progress you desire. If you are ready to take the next step in healing, self-discovery, and empowerment, my door is open.

I look forward to beginning our work together.

Professional experience

16yrs in practice
Addictions LGBTQ+ Relationships Trauma, Abuse Compassion fatigue

Additional areas of focus: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Depression, Coping with life changes, Coaching, Caregiver issues and stress, Communication problems, Control issues, First Responder Issues, Infidelity, Military and Veterans Issues, Multicultural Concerns, Polyamory / Nonmonogamous Relationships, Women's issues

Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy

Services offered

Video
Phone
Live Chat
Messaging

License information

DC LPC PRC14964

Reviews

These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Michelle Durham. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.

Excellent and kind therapist, very thoughtful support during my struggle with a relationship and my mother’s illness

Written on Jan 09, 2024 after therapy with Michelle for 1 month on issues concerning stress, anxiety, addictions, lgbt, relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, and coping with life changes

So far Ms. Michelle has been a warm comforting presence in my time of grief and confusion, allowing me an opportunity to ease into changing things for the better.

Written on Oct 03, 2023 after therapy with Michelle for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, self esteem, bipolar disorder, and coping with life changes

Michelle is excellent. She's warm, calm, and respectful. She validates all of my experiences and feelings and makes me feel "normal". She listens to and understands EVERYTHING I say, and provides extremely thoughtful, doable suggestions. So far, she's absolutely perfect.

Written on Sep 28, 2023 after therapy with Michelle for 3 weeks on issues concerning lgbt, and intimacy-related issues

Michelle is a wonderful therapist! She has a strong combination of empathetic counseling, knowledge of psychology and sociology, and a pleasant, likable personality.

Written on May 17, 2023 after therapy with Michelle for 4 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, lgbt, trauma and abuse, and intimacy-related issues

Michelle has really helped me through a difficult period in my life. She listens, understands and gives thoughtful commentary and suggestions. She is really excellent

Written on May 16, 2023 after therapy with Michelle for 4 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, parenting issues, and coping with life changes

Michelle is very patient.

Written on Jan 06, 2023 after therapy with Michelle for 2 years and 11 months on issues concerning relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and grief