Grief counselors and therapists in Ridgeland, MS

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 am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi with 11 years of experience supporting clients through a wide range of challenges, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and depression. I believe in treating every individual with respect, dignity, and compassion. My approach is client-centered, and I work collaboratively to tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to your unique needs. My goal is to support and empower you as you move forward on your healing journey.

I help people with trauma overcome emotional chaos, a highjacked nervous system, and merry go round of negative thoughts so they can regain a stronger sense of self and reconnect with the people and things that matter most in their lives. You deserve support that helps you feel effective again in navigating your daily life.

I assist children, teens, young adults, and adults work through tough times and difficult emotions, life’s transitions, and relationship challenges. Whether it’s a child with big feelings and educational barriers, a teen feeling isolated and unsure of themselves, or an adult attempting to navigate anxiety, stress, burnout, or identity shifts - I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore what’s going on and facilitate lasting change.

Kayla, a licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in community mental health, recognized the profound disparities in access to mental health care within BIPOC communities. Inspired by a vision of creating a space where healing is both inclusive and affordable, she founded Helen’s Project with the belief that everyone deserves access to quality mental health support, regardless of their background or financial situation.​​Helen’s Project operates on the principle that culturally competent and empathetic mental health care is essential for holistic well-being. The organization collaborates with a diverse team of mental health professionals who not only possess clinical expertise but also understand the unique cultural nuances and challenges faced by the BIPOC community.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Nationally Board-Certified Counselor, I hold a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology, and a Doctoral Degree of Ministry. With a wealth of experience, I am committed to guiding you towards positive change. My mission is to equip individuals, couples, and families with the tools they need for success.

With over 43 years of experience, I am passionate about helping individuals, adolescents, and couples navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with clients facing anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, trauma, school-related concerns, parenting challenges, and relationship issues. My approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), combined with a truth-filled Christian perspective, fostering strength, resilience, and hope.

I believe in treating every client with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Through a non-judgmental, supportive, and honest approach, I empower individuals to overcome obstacles and work toward a peaceful, meaningful, and purpose-filled life.

Welcome to my profile! First, I want to acknowledge that it can be daunting to start the process of therapy and even more to choose a therapist - so thanks for checking out my profile, and good luck on your journey, wherever it takes you!

A little about me: I bring a LOT of different perspectives to my work:

1) Educationally, I combine a Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience (Boston College, 2010) and a Respecialization degree (essentially like another Ph.D.) in Clinical Psychology (Suffolk University, 2015)

2) Clinically, I have worked with all sorts of people, ranging from young to older adults, with simple adjustment issues all the way to complex neurological/psychiatric problems. That said, I specialize in the following issues: depression and anxiety disorders; OCD; bipolar disorder; women's issues, including domestic violence, perinatal, postpartum, and parenting problems; cultural stress and issues related to immigration; rehabilitation psychology (adjustment to severe, chronic medical conditions).

3) Culturally, I am a French native, with over 20 years living in the U.S., 10 of which were in New England and the past 10 years in MS, so I bring greater than usual open-mindedness to all sorts of perspectives!

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), approved by the Mississippi Board of Counselors, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), approved by the Utah Department of Commerce, certified in DBT, and a certified parent trainer. I am a published author. I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my undergraduate degree in psychology at Mississippi University for Women (2003). I also earned a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University (2012).

I help adults who are overwhelmed by grief, stress, or major life changes find direction and relief again.

Therapy with me is about taking pressure off your shoulders and replacing it with calm, clarity, and the support you deserve.