Michelle Lehto Flores, LCPC

Michelle Lehto Flores is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a master’s degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She brings nine years of clinical experience and personal insight to her work, grounding her practice in lived experience and a deep understanding of the challenges that accompany mental health concerns and addiction.

Her clinical focus includes addictions, mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, anger, and self-esteem difficulties, along with related areas like family and communication problems, co-morbidity, and substance use concerns. Michelle has supported people through major life transitions, trauma, and high stress, meeting each person with warmth and a nonjudgmental stance.

Michelle draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help clients build practical coping skills and find clearer direction. She integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - which helps people identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors - with solution-focused methods that emphasize immediate, attainable goals, and mindfulness practices to foster present-moment awareness and emotional regulation. As an LCPC - a licensed mental health counselor - she prioritizes collaboration, honoring clients' strengths while creating a supportive space for growth.

Whether someone is feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready to pursue greater stability and purpose, Michelle offers a steady, strengths-based approach aimed at fostering resilience and meaningful change.

Evidence-Based Approaches for Online Care

Michelle regularly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns and develop concrete coping strategies for mood symptoms, anxiety, and addictive behaviors. She also incorporates mindfulness practices to increase present-moment awareness and support emotion regulation when stress, anger, or mood swings arise. When appropriate, she applies solution-focused techniques that concentrate on immediate, achievable goals to foster progress and build momentum.

Finding the best therapeutic approach is a collaborative process. Michelle works with each person to explore which techniques align with their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting methods over time so therapy remains responsive and practical. Licensed professionals and therapists often blend methods to suit individual circumstances, and Michelle follows that adaptable model in her practice.

Online therapy offers flexibility for people balancing work, family, and other commitments. Michelle provides care via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to make attendance more accessible and consistent. These options can help clients maintain continuity of care and integrate new skills into daily life, while receiving regular support from a clinician tuned to their progress and goals.