Michelle Watkins, Student Intern

My younger sister died by suicide in 2012. Four years later, my brother-in-law

died by suicide. While their life stories are different from each other, the

resulting pain felt very similar in my body. After years of being easily triggered

and overwhelmed—not knowing how to deal with the grief of these events—I

finally came to therapy. Through it and its useful tools, I learned to walk with

grief.

My own journey of healing led me to seek out a Marriage and Family Therapy program, as a way to continue my growth and in the hopes of supporting others who deal with grief, trauma and loss. Part of my learning (and unlearning) has been letting go of outside expectations and connecting to my deeper self. This inner work has brought peace, and the energy to show up for others in a meaningful way. I believe that as we prioritize our mental health, everyone around us benefits.  

I have found that in therapy, some of the most important work we can do is concentrate on relationships  within the systems in which we live—whether that’s between partners, a parent and child, or other dynamics. It’s powerful when we recognize the roles we play in our systems and take ownership of our affect. As a therapist, I recognize the importance of creating a safe environment to facilitate the space for both individual and systemic healing.

*Accepting New Clients*

Locations: Orem, Telehealth

Areas of Interest:

• Grief and Loss

• Couple Relationships

• Family Relationships (Systemic Work)