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Meet Michelle Whalen

The answers are already there.

What I've come to believe is that the answers we're looking for are rarely found outside of ourselves — they're already there, waiting to be uncovered.

Schedule Appointment My story
Michelle Whalen smiling, seated in a red armchair
"You already have what it takes. I'm just here to help you see it."

Where I Come From

A family rooted in service

Exploring the world and the people in it is a passion of mine — blame it on my German roots and a serious case of wanderlust — and honestly, I think those experiences have made me a better therapist. What the world has given me goes far beyond passport stamps. Being immersed in different cultures and ways of life firsthand teaches humility, builds compassion, and reveals the common humanity that lives in all of us — and that is something I carry into every session.

I come from a family rooted in service — my father and grandfather both served in the U.S. military — and their legacy shaped my desire to give back. It was no surprise that I found myself drawn to a similar calling in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. I went on to work for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, where I proudly contributed to the mission of protecting the American people alongside truly dedicated individuals. That chapter gave me a deep pride in serving a purpose larger than myself, while instilling a standard for excellence that I carry into my work as a therapist to this day.

  • German roots and wanderlust

    Different cultures and ways of life teach humility, build compassion, and reveal the common humanity in all of us.

  • An Air Force brat

    Moving around frequently, I learned early how to connect with new people, and that I genuinely enjoy hearing their stories.

  • Federal service after 9/11

    I worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, alongside truly dedicated individuals.

  • Happiest on a trail

    Hiking or mountain biking, most happily in the mountains of Crested Butte.

How I Work

Capable, whole people

There is nothing more fulfilling to me than witnessing someone reclaim their narrative — working through what has held them back and emerging on the other side feeling empowered and truly alive in their own story.

  • Strength-Based

    Strength-based therapy isn't about minimizing your pain or difficulty — it's about recognizing that you are not defined by your struggles, but by the resilience, strength, and capacity for growth that lives within you, even in your hardest moments.

  • Collaborative

    I see my clients as capable, whole people who simply need a collaborative partner to help them reconnect with the strength they've had within them all along.

  • Outdoors When It Helps

    That love of nature directly inspired my decision to offer walk and talk therapy. I believe there is something deeply healing about being in nature while doing meaningful inner work.

Who I Work With

Anywhere in Colorado

I know reaching out isn't easy. But choosing to invest in yourself is one of the most powerful things you can do — and if you're here reading this, you're already further along than you think.

I work with adults and teens across Colorado by secure video, or outdoors on a walk and talk.

What Working Together Looks Like

  1. Complimentary Consultation

    A 15-minute call to see if we're a good fit. No pressure, no commitment. Just a conversation.

  2. Initial Sessions

    We slow down and listen. Understanding your full story is the foundation of meaningful therapy.

  3. Personalized Work

    Together we build practical tools and deeper insights — at a pace that feels right for you.

  4. Ongoing Support

    Healing isn't linear. We stay flexible and adjust as your needs and life evolve over time.

Sessions are $165 an hour, self-pay. I don't bill health insurance.

You Already Have What It Takes. Let's Start There.

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Not ready to book? Send Michelle a message instead. She replies within 24 to 48 hours.