Grief counselors and therapists in West Hartford, CT

There was a time when I felt trapped by anxiety, depression, and overwhelm. I spent years feeling like I was constantly reacting to the world around me—easily overwhelmed, shutting down, and unsure how to move forward. I was living in a hypervigiliant state - always on edge, feeling unsafe in relationships and in my aloneness. This was also followed with depressive states followed by shame and guilt. Working with a Practitioner in Somatic Experiencing has transformed my emotional well being by helping my brain and body recognize safety and reducing my sensitivity to unpleasant sensations and arousal. I now feel more in control, I welcome unpleasant bodily sensations when they show up, and feel more safe in my body.

I’m Michele Ellis, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. With over a decade of experience, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the social, emotional, and psychological challenges people face. My approach is warm, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs—meeting you exactly where you are in your journey. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back, build on your strengths, and create a path toward meaningful, lasting change.

I’m an LCSW currently licensed in CT, MA, NH, and ME. I believe that therapy is most effective when it’s practical and empowering. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, life transitions or grief, I aim to create a safe and supportive space where growth and change feel possible. My role is not to “fix” but to walk with you to gain insight, develop tools and move towards the version of you that feels most authentic.

I get it. You’re tired of feeling stuck, exhausted, and like nothing’s really changing. You’ve been carrying a lot, and it’s starting to feel heavy. As a psychotherapist in practice for over 10 years, I’m passionate about walking alongside adults on their healing journey, especially those navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. Whether you're a professional burning out, a veteran facing emotional pain, or a student trying to find your footing, I offer support rooted in compassion and real tools like EMDR and CBT. More importantly, I create a space where you can show up just as you are and feel truly seen, safe, and supported.

Emotions can be overwhelming, especially when coupled with difficult memories from your past. Along with poor sleep, brain fog, and no energy, it can seem impossible to cope. Many people struggle with these symptoms whether it’s from depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or difficult life transitions. Life can be hard and we all need help sometimes. I'm here to help you figure out what works best for you.

Taking the first step toward therapy can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 16 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Throughout my career, I have worked in community mental health and held leadership roles overseeing outpatient mental health programs.

I specialize in helping individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, infertility, women’s issues, and life transitions. I believe that while our experiences shape us, they do not have to define us. I am trained EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and tailor treatment to each person’s unique needs and goals.

Welcome! I am glad that you are here.

I believe therapy should be a place where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and accepted. My goal is to support you to better understand yourself, build resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/LICSW) in CT and MA with more than 15 years of experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and families as they navigate life’s challenges. I have completed advanced studies in trauma and have extensive experience working with anxiety and mood disorders, as well. I have had the honor of working in multiple settings with a range of people and communities and am so grateful for each opportunity I have had to support and partner with someone towards their goals and through their struggles.

My practice is fully virtual, allowing clients to access therapy from the comfort and privacy of their chosen environment.