Michelle Connolly, LPC, P.C.

1 (503) 866-3971


Somatic and Attachment Counseling Services

Individual Counseling

Specializing in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and other anxiety disorders in adults.

Therapeutic Interventions

Utilizing Sensorimotor Psychotherapy as well as DBT and treatments for addiction.

Insurance Accepted

In network with PacificSource Insurance Plans. Out-of-network billing offered on all other plans.


Individual Therapy

Somatic Approach

As a psychotherapist trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, it is my goal to help you learn to love and trust your body. So often in trauma we believe that our bodies have failed us in some way. In our work together, you will learn to be more present in your body and identify the beliefs you hold about yourself, others, and the world.


Services offered



Assessment

Our first appointment is an opportunity to learn more about each other before committing to working together. I will take time to listen to your concerns and develop some ideas about what might be happening for you and the steps needed to achieve your goals. These sessions typically last one hour.


Individual Therapy

Each session we will check in to see how you have been and address any homework we may have agreed upon the previous session. We then work together to slowly bring more awareness to your body in the present moment as you talk about what has brought you to therapy. This helps to decrease dissociation and fearfulness of the past. We then look for what was missing for you during the traumatic event, whether it be the ability to move and defend yourself or a kindness from the people around you. This need is then offered in the moment allowing for a change in your beliefs about yourself, others, and the world. These sessions are 55 minutes in duration.


Consultation

Sometimes it can be helpful to consult with other professionals when treating individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Collaboration is always offered when we share a client.


Inclusivity

Diversity, inclusivity, and equality are important in my practice. My pronouns are she/her. While the bathrooms in the building are gendered, I will support you in using the bathroom of your choice. Unfortunately, my building is not ADA accessible as I am located on the second floor of a building without an elevator. I center BIPOC and AAPI voices. The furniture in my office and waiting room is vegan (no animal products).


About Me

I started my career in counseling in the late 90's working in a residential setting for children. As I helped children learn to self-regulate and seek love and support, it became clear to me that the adults in their lives also needed help if they were to be the best parents and mentors they could be to these children. During graduate school I completed my internship in community mental health with a focus on treating addictions and Borderline Personality Disorder in adults. I discovered a passion for treating this group of people which led me to develop the substance abuse treatment program at Portland DBT, which I managed for seven years.

As I learned more about Borderline Personality Disorder, I realized that I needed to deepen my understanding of trauma and complex trauma. I pursued my training with The Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute and completed the Level II training in 2012. I opened my own practice in 2010 where I continue today to support people in recovery from addiction as well as trauma. I especially enjoy working with people who struggle with perfectionism and developing a sense of self, as well as treating other medical providers in the community.

I live in Portland with my husband and child. I enjoy playing flute in orchestra and small ensembles, running in my neighborhood, and discovering new trails to hike with my family.

Contact Information

Please note that my hours are limited and it may take me a few days to return your email or call.

4300 NE Fremont Street, Suite 260
Portland, Oregon 97213   

1 (503) 866-3971

michelle_connolly@comcast.net

Monday and Tuesday 9am-3pm, Wednesday 9am-12pm