Michelle Wheaton

LSW

Therapist

About Michelle Wheaton

Hi there! I’m Michelle, and I believe that therapy should be a space where you can completely kick off your shoes, drop the “metaphorical mask,” and just be human. Being human is hard, and navigating life’s unexpected plot twists can leave us feeling overwhelmed, heavy, or completely stuck. If you are ready to explore what’s standing in your way without the fear of being judged, you are in the right place. I love working with individuals across the entire lifespan who are searching for their own path forward and are ready to claim their inner strength.
My therapeutic style is deeply person-centered, empowering, and heavily sprinkled with real talk and warmth. I don’t see myself as the “all-knowing expert” who is here to fix you—you are already the expert on your own life. Instead, think of me as your collaborative partner. I believe in tailoring our work to what you need in the moment, drawing from a rich toolkit of evidence-based practices. By blending the practical tools of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and the psychological flexibility of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with the deep self-discovery of Psychodynamic and Somatic (mind-body) theories, we will look at both the “here and now” and the underlying roots of what holds you back. Guided by Motivational Interviewing, we will work together to uncover your intrinsic motivation and build a life that feels genuinely yours. You can always expect a completely non-judgmental space where your voice is heard, your strengths are celebrated, and room is made for genuine connection (and probably a little healing humor along the way!).
I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from Walden University. I have extensive experience working with all age groups, allowing me to meet clients wherever they are on their life journey. Within this broad spectrum, I specialize in walking alongside clients through some of life’s most profound, sensitive, and difficult challenges, including grief counseling, adjustment disorders, depression and suicidal ideations, and end-of-life support. Whether you are adapting to a major life transition, managing an unexpected crisis, navigating the darkness of depression, diagnosis of Huntington’s, Parkinson’s, cancer, or walking through a heavy season of loss, I provide a steady, compassionate anchor to help you process, find meaning, and move forward safely at your own pace.
When I’m not partnering with clients in the therapy room, you can usually find me out in the fresh air enjoying Ohio’s beautiful state parks, planning a weekend tent camping trip, or exploring local pizza shops to find the absolute perfect slice.