Michel Anais S. Paves, MSW, LICSW, SUDP (she/her)

Approach

Creating a therapeutic connection based on mutual respect, trust, and collaboration is important to me. My hope is to work with you in identifying the core issues underneath the emotional strain while, at the same time, uncovering strength and resilience. Therapy ought to be a space that’s hopeful, safe, and free of shame and judgment. Everyone’s journeys and battles are unique---we will work as a team to identify what paths align with your values and which solutions fit best for you. Therapy can be scary and it can be hard, but you’re here because you’re ready (even if you’re only “kinda” ready). It would be a privilege to work alongside you!

I operate from a strengths-based approach rooted in cultural humility and social justice. Using a lens that is trauma-informed and intersectional, we may explore the various ways that you experience the world and how the world systemically impacts you and your goals. My primary therapy go-to’s are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I also have experience with Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I have experience working with adolescents and adults with the following issues:

  • Substance misuse with depression and anxiety

  • Racial/Ethnic Identity Development and Internalized Oppression

  • Anxiety linked with post-partum, perfectionism, and/or Intrusive Thoughts

  • Stress and adjusting to life transitions

  • Trauma and nightmares

About me

I am a 2nd generation Filipinx-American, and I use she/her pronouns. I was born and raised in Washington state and have lived in New Mexico and Hawai’i. I am a parent of two, a lover of cheese and french fries, a reader of comics, and I laugh too much at my own jokes.

Training

I have a Masters in Social Work from the University of Washington, specializing in Clinical Practice and Co-Occurring Disorders. 

I have been in the field for a decade working with youth, adults, and families struggling with substance use alongside depression, anxiety, and/or complex trauma. I have training in Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Community Reinforcement and Reinforcement Training (skills only), and Relapse Prevention.