Michelle Hodgson
Registered Social Worker · SSW · BA · BSW · MSW · RSW
- Couples, Families & Individuals
- English
Support for Anger Management, Anxiety, Blended Family, Children & Attachment and 11 more ↓
Areas of focus
If what you are carrying is not listed, it is still worth a conversation.
- Anger Management
- Anxiety
- Blended Family
- Children & Attachment
- Conflict Resolution
- Couples Communication
- Depression
- Domestic Abuse
- Emotional Unavailability
- Grief and loss
- Men's Issues
- Modern Parenting
- Separation & Divorce
- Teen Issues
- Women's Issues
Also works with Abuse survivor issues, Caregiver stress, Child abuse, Children divorce, Elder abuse / exploitation, Emotional / psychological abuse, Family conflict, Family of origin, Financial stress, First responders, Forgiveness, Health wellness, Identity issues, Life focusing, Life skills, Life transitions, Love intimacy, Mood disorders, Mother and daughter relationships, Obsessive compulsive disorder, Parenting, Parenting attachment, Pre-marital, Professional burnout, PTSD, Relationships dating, Return to work, Self-esteem, Self-harm, Sexual assault victim, Stress management, Trust issues and Workplace issues.
In Michelle's words
Hi, I’m Michelle (she/her pronouns), a Registered Social Worker and a member in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I have a Master of Social Work degree from King’s University College at Western University (2017). Prior to that, I completed a Bachelor of Social Work with Honors from King’s University College at Western University (2016), Bachelor of Arts: Thanatology Major, Psychology Minor from King’s University College at Western University (2014), as well as a Social Service Worker Diploma from Mohawk College (2009). I have over five years of clinical social work-related knowledge, skills and experience in a hospital environment, as well as a variety of counselling settings in both non-profit and private practice. As someone who enjoys ongoing education and learning, I continue to attend professional development trainings to refine my practice skills and knowledge.
Continue reading Michelle's approach
As a therapist, it is a privilege to work in partnership with clients to overcome barriers and achieve their fullest potential. While working together, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space that allows clients to speak openly and freely. Using a strengths-based, client-centred approach, I strive to provide a non-judgmental, anti-oppressive, inclusive and culturally sensitive environment that empowers clients to better understand themselves, develop healthier coping strategies and improve their well-being. I use an eclectic mix of evidence- based modalities when working with clients: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Crisis Intervention, and Positive Psychology while incorporating a trauma-informed practice.
As Muhammad Ali shared: “Don’t count the days, make the days count”. I look forward to meeting with you and walking alongside you on your own journey.
Background
Master of Social Work (MSW) from King’s University College at Western University (2017)
Registered with Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)
Also listed on
Qualifications & registrations
- Also holds
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) with Honors from King’s University College at Western University (2016)
- Bachelor of Arts: Thanatology Major, Psychology Minor from King’s University College, at Western University (2014)
- Social Service Worker (SSW) Diploma from Mohawk College (2009)
- Polyvagal Theory: A Bottom-Up Approach for Trauma Treatment (2024) Developing an Expanded Understanding of a Polyvagal-Informed Practice (2024)
- Trauma-Informed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) (2023)
- Solution-Focused Basics: Implementation and Practice (2023)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): The Model, Practice and Application (2023)
- Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ Positive Space Training (2022)
- Shame and Resilience: Supporting Clients Experiencing Racism and Oppression (2022)
- Introduction to Solution-Focused Conversations and Communication (2022)
- Trauma Stewardship: A Workshop on the Fundamentals of Trauma (2022)
- Experience
- Approximately 5 Years
- Also a member of
- Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW)
Trained in these approaches — drawn on depending on what each person needs, not a fixed formula.
A few questions, answered
Prior to entering post-secondary education, I had the privilege of volunteering with a child diagnosed with a developmental disability. I worked with him one-on-one which allowed him to be a part of a bigger group setting. While in the Social Service Worker program, my ongoing desire to help and support others validated that I was in the right field. As I continued my education, I grew interested in working as a therapist, which has led to where I am today.
As a therapist, it is a privilege to be present for clients who are expressing their deepest concerns, emotions and experiences. I am aware that for some individuals they are sharing these thoughts and experiences for the first time. Therefore, one aspect of being a therapist that I strongly appreciate is working collaboratively to build trust within the therapeutic relationship. I do that using compassion and humour within a safe and confidential environment.
The thought of contacting a therapist for the first time can feel daunting. Even if the individual believes that therapy can be helpful, they may still be hesitant. Keep in mind that every individual needs support at some time in their life. If the individual would be willing to meet with me, I would focus on building trust in the therapeutic relationship, providing a non-judgmental, anti-oppressive, inclusive and culturally sensitive environment that empowers the individual.
Therapy provides a safe, confidential and supportive space that allows individuals to feel empowered and supported within the counselling environment.
Talking to a therapist works differently for each person. Most individuals who participate in therapy can develop skills and strategies that address their goal(s) and result in improvement of their well-being. Some individuals can view therapy as a sense of relief or release of the stress or concerns they are experiencing.
Change is an inside job — seeing clients identify and implement positive change(s) in their lives is such an empowering experience to witness.
Getting to know Michelle
- What activity instantly calms you?
- Listening to empowering music at home while cleaning and organizing.
- What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
- Be yourself and those who are important to you will continue to be a part of your life.
- How do you enjoy spending your alone time?
- I very much enjoy watching a law, crime or medical show while burning a candle and having the fireplace on.