Michelle Torres, MA, MFA, AMFT
Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #150977
Supervised by Lori Crowley, LMFT #121471
MTMaxson
Employed by the Center for Mindful Psychotherapy at ExP Therapy in Petaluma and telehealth throughout California
My Approach
As a therapist, I am committed to creating a safe, affirming space where every individuals feel seen, heard, and respected. My practice is neurodivergent-affirming, LGBTQIA+-affirming, anti-racist, and culturally sensitive, ensuring that therapy is a place of genuine support and understanding.
I use an integrative, client-centered, holistic approach, tailoring therapy to each person's unique needs. Drawing from various techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, psychodynamic, humanistic, mindfulness-based therapies, and Polyvagal Theory, I help clients navigate challenges with compassion and self-awareness. My goal is to support healing and growth in a way that honors each person's unique path and lived experience.
Individual Therapy
In individual therapy, I provide a supportive and affirming space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace. My approach is client-centered and tailored to your unique needs, integrating evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a deep understanding of the complexities of the human experience. For neurodivergent clients, I offer a validating and strengths-based approach that honors your lived experience, whether you are navigating ADHD, autism, or other forms of neurodivergence. Together, we work to understand your challenges, build self-compassion, and develop practical strategies that align with your way of thinking and processing the world. My goal is to help you foster self-awareness, reduce stress and overwhelm, and create meaningful, sustainable change in your life.
Couples Therapy
Relationships can be both deeply fulfilling and incredibly challenging. In couples therapy, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where partners can navigate conflict, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional connection. Whether you’re struggling with recurring disagreements, intimacy issues, life transitions, differing expectations in your relationship, or the unique dynamics of a neurodivergent relationship, I tailor therapy to meet your specific needs. My approach is rooted in fostering understanding, reducing stress, and helping couples build healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Together, we will work to break unhelpful patterns, cultivate mutual respect, and create a foundation for deeper connection and lasting change.
Parenting
As a therapist specializing in supporting parents, I provide guidance and practical strategies for navigating the challenges of raising neurodivergent children, particularly those with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Parenting a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming, as traditional approaches don't work and often lead to resistance and frustration. I help parents understand their child’s unique needs, develop flexible and compassionate communication strategies, and create a low-demand, trust-based environment that fosters connection and cooperation. Through a strengths-based and collaborative approach, I empower parents to feel more confident and supported, reducing stress and enhancing family harmony.
Therapy for Women
Women experience unique challenges throughout their lives, and midlife can be a time of profound change and self-discovery. Whether you’re navigating shifting identities, career changes, relationships, parenting, menopause, or a renewed search for meaning and purpose, therapy can provide the support and clarity you need. I offer a supportive space where women can explore their experiences, gain insight, and develop strategies to navigate life with confidence and clarity. My approach is collaborative and strengths-based, helping you reconnect with yourself, embrace change, and move forward with a greater sense of fulfillment and direction.
