Michelle Stockton, JD, LSWAIC
Hi! I’m Michelle (she/her), and I am so glad you’re here. I know how scary and vulnerable it can feel to reach out for help — especially when you’re used to carrying things on your own. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just unsure of where to begin, you’re not alone in this.
I believe that healing happens in the context of genuine, compassionate, human-to-human connection. In our work together, I’ll meet you with warmth, curiosity, and respect for your pace and your story. As a therapist, I show up as my authentic self so that you can feel safe to do the same.
As you read more, I hope you’ll get a glimpse of who I am and the kind of space I strive to create in therapy.
How I work
Relational: At the heart of my work is the belief that healing happens in relationship. I work from a relational lens, which means that our therapeutic connection is not just a tool — it’s the foundation. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported, knowing that a genuine, trusting relationship can be a powerful catalyst for growth.
Person-Centered: I believe you already hold the capacity for healing and growth within you. My role is to walk alongside you — not to push or direct, but to support and collaborate with you. I will meet you wherever you are in your process, and together we’ll move at a pace that feels safe and grounded for you.
Compassion-Focused: The stories you carry may feel tender, painful, or complex. I approach our work with warmth, curiosity, and deep respect for all the parts of you that show up. Clients often describe me as warm and non-judgmental. My hope is that you’ll feel held with compassion, even as we explore what’s been hard to carry alone.
Education & Training
I am a Licensed Clinical Independent Associate Social Worker in Washington State. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Washington. Before finding my calling as a therapist, I earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin and a Juris Doctor from the University of Houston Law Center.
Outside the therapy room
When I’m not in session, you can usually find me in the kitchen trying a new recipe, exploring a local coffee shop, or curled up on the couch with my partner and our three dogs. I’m an avid podcast listener and a lifelong Taylor Swift fan. I love starting my day with a good cup of coffee and winding down with a walk around the neighborhood or a workout class to help me reset. I am also on a never-ending search for the best cream cheese bagel in Washington State, and I am always open to recommendations.
