ABOUT MICHELLE

Thank you for visiting. Unfortunately, I am not accepting new clients.

 

Welcome and thank you for being here. My name is Michelle Nicholls (she/her) and I am a registered social worker/psychotherapist in private practice, with 17 years of experience dedicated to learning, and growing in community-based health care. As a psychotherapist, I create space for my clients to bravely identify the different challenges that contribute to symptoms that make them feel unwell, or mentally, emotionally, and physically out of balance.

 

My practice prioritizes people who identify as Black, Indigenous, and people of colour, which includes Middles Eastern, South American, Latin American, South Asian, East Asian, Pacific Islanders, and identities whose narratives have been excluded in traditional therapy spaces.  My approach is client-centred and based in anti-oppression, anti-racism, and feminist principles. This also includes social justice frameworks and exploring decolonization of ourselves and traditional therapeutic models. Many people connect with me because they are curious about mindfulness, Dharma, or trauma modalities such as EMDR or Brainspotting. These practices can be liberating for people who feel disconnected from their true self and their potential to live a fuller life. What's most important is that I want you to feel comfortable enough to share, collaborate, and learn during our sessions. 

 

I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from Toronto Metropolitan University, a Masters of Social Work from Dalhousie University, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from York University. In addition, I have an Inter-Professional Certificate in Applied Mindfulness Meditation, and I am a graduate of the True North Insight Community Dharma Mentorship program.

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I am parent to a super creative child, I love dancing, music, podcasts, bike riding, memoirs, and writing. You can find my writing about grief, trauma, self-compassion, and our interconnectedness, on Substack at Where there is Curiosity. 

I believe that strong therapeutic relationship starts from a place of warmth, respect, compassion, mindful presence, and curiosity. I look forward to working with you.

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I offer virtual therapy, walk and talk therapy, and in-person by request only. I am  pleased to be offering Mindfulness-Based groups at Purple Oak Health.