I dreamed of committing time to reflect upon my spiritual and emotional journey. I wanted to explore my life’s purpose and deepen my understanding of certain events in my life. I had no idea that my work with Dr. Peticolas on grief and loss would also illuminate patterns that kept me from having a loving, forgiving and compassionate relationship with myself. Through Michelle’s gentle, thoughtful and non-judgmental approach, I have been able to review my life’s more darker circumstances and events and use them to make more insightful and mindful choices, not only about how I am showing up for others in my life, but more importantly, how I am showing up for myself.

In one session with Michelle, I got a lot of clarity and validation of feelings I hadn’t acknowledged before. I sensed her depth of loving understanding and full presence with me. She helped me choose actions to help myself, which have proven to be very helpful in moving forward. I know now I have someone I can turn to who doesn’t need a lot of explaining, and who will meet me right where I am.

I appreciate all the time and energy Michelle put in to help me reach this point –the empathy she showed for my situation and my reaction to it; her calm demeanor and understanding. I’ve looked forward to our weekly meetings as spending time with a friend — a friend who has experience and knowledge to help me learn from this and enter life again.