Michelle Ross, LPC

Michelle Ross is a licensed professional counselor in Idaho who helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, and LGBTQ+ related concerns. She communicates directly and calmly, aiming to make therapy feel manageable even when problems seem large. Michelle draws on practical strategies so clients can see small changes quickly and build from there.

She brings four years of clinical experience and a varied background outside therapy. Michelle earned a Bachelor of Arts in German Language and Literature from the University of Oregon and later a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology from the University of Idaho. She completed a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling. Before shifting to mental health, Michelle served four years in the U.S. Navy as a Machinist Mate and reached the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class.

In sessions she uses cognitive behavioral techniques and dialectical behavioral methods to help people notice unhelpful thoughts and build coping skills. She also brings Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and mindfulness practices into care when they fit the person’s goals. Her work is collaborative - she listens, offers tools, and adjusts the approach based on what helps.

Michelle has mainly worked with teens and adults on issues such as body image, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and suicidality. She is an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and addresses concerns related to gender dysphoria and identity with respect.

People who choose Michelle typically want clear strategies, steady support, and a therapist who respects their experience. She emphasizes strengths and small, workable steps toward feeling better.

Evidence-based approaches for online care

Michelle commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy in online sessions. CBT helps people identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, which is useful for anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. DBT teaches skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and improving communication when feelings run high.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Michelle will work with each person to review goals, preferences, and what has or hasn’t helped before. Together they decide whether to emphasize CBT, DBT, EMDR, or mindfulness techniques and adjust the plan as progress is made.

Online therapy with Michelle is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to provide flexibility. Video is helpful for in-depth sessions and skill practice, phone calls can fit a break in a workday or require less bandwidth, and chat or messaging can support quick check-ins or ongoing tracking between sessions. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care while matching the format to a person's schedule and needs.