A little about me...

Hello,

My name is Michelle Pinto, I am an experienced and compassionate Registered Mental Health Counselor intern (RMHCi) dedicated to helping improve the lives of individuals through therapy and counseling. I am a fervent advocate for mental health and wellness, currently pursuing my PhD in Health and Human Performance further enriching my knowledge and capabilities in providing holistic evidence-based services to my clients.

My focus is primarily working with parents and caregivers who are grappling with a range of emotions, including feelings of anxiety, depression, stress, abandonment, rejection, guilt, and various issues related to their roles in parenting and caregiving, as well as broader life concerns. My specialization lies in assisting adults in comprehending and effectively addressing the complex array of emotions, feelings, and challenges they may be encountering.

My experience includes working with neurodiverse children who have genetic and developmental disorders, as well as supporting their parents and caregivers. I possess expertise in psychology and physiology spanning from infants to adults, with a specific focus on the intricate mind-body-spirit connection. This expertise enables me to comprehend and empathize with diverse perspectives, whether from a child or a parent.

My approach is rooted in the belief that every individual is unique and deserves a personalized treatment plan to meet their needs. I use a client-centered, holistic approach that combines evidence-based techniques with empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity. This expertise enables me to comprehend and empathize with diverse perspectives, whether from a child or a parent.

My commitment lies in offering compassionate evidence-based therapy. I aim to be a trusted resource for individuals who are in search of support and healing on their mental health journey.  

My therapy philosophies are summarized in the following principles:

● Client-Centered: I place the client’s needs and goals at the forefront of therapy, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

● Holistic Care: It is important to recognize the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, by taking account of all aspects of a person’s life, including their relationships, environment, and personal history.

● Evidence-Based Practices: I also utilize evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Mind-Mapping, and Parenting/Caregiving tools and techniques to meet the diverse care needs of clients.

● Empathy and Active Listening: I believe that empathy and active listening are crucial in building a strong therapeutic alliance. Fostering a trusting relationship with clients is essential for open expression without fear of judgment.

● Cultural Sensitivity: I recognize the importance of diversity and respect the values of each client’s background, beliefs, and identity.

● Self-Care and Empowerment: I place strong emphasis on self-care strategies, empowering parents and caregivers to prioritize their own well-being while fulfilling their caregiver responsibilities. Through learned tools and skills, clients are empowered to overcome challenges, manage symptoms, and achieve their goals. I believe everyone has the capacity for growth and change.

● Progress Monitoring: Throughout the therapy journey, I regularly assess client’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Collaborating with the client is essential to set achievable goals and celebrate milestones.