As Featured In

Why can the death of someone young affect us so deeply—even when we didn’t know them? A young death can challenge our sense of safety, predictability, and control, sometimes bringing old wounds or trauma responses to the surface. Understanding these reactions can be an important part of trauma recovery, helping us reconnect with what we can control and move forward with greater intention.

Travel can create unexpected space to reconnect with ourselves, especially during major life transitions. In this Forbes feature, Michelle Smith, LMHC, explores the idea of the “vacation self” and how stepping outside familiar roles and routines can help us reconnect with joy, identity, and parts of ourselves that may have been pushed aside. For those navigating trauma recovery, that reconnection can be an important part of healing.

Identity is deeply personal, yet many people experience the pain of feeling unseen, misunderstood, or invalidated by others. These experiences can impact self-trust, relationships, and emotional safety. Trauma recovery is not only about healing from past events — it is also about rebuilding connection with yourself and creating a sense of belonging. In this article, I explore identity, belonging, and how trauma-informed therapy can support healing after experiences of rejecti

I’m honored to share that I’ve been featured for the third time as an expert in Candlelight Magazine Issue 009. In the “Dear Candlelight” column, I respond to heartfelt reader letters about grief processing with compassion and practical guidance. This ongoing opportunity continues to deepen my connection to this meaningful work. Grief often intersects with trauma recovery, and I’m grateful to offer insights that support healing, self-compassion, and nervous system care during

Discover the hidden trauma many carry behind “I’m fine” and success. In Episode 25 of Girl Talk Mental Health, I sit down with Virginia Dale Manning to discuss emotional neglect, silent grief, betrayal trauma, and how real healing begins. Watch now.

Healing after heartbreak and loss often brings shame, self-blame, and anxiety that can feel overwhelming. In this heartfelt conversation with Charles Olorunfemi, therapist Michelle Smith shares gentle ways to move forward without shame—rebuilding self-worth, releasing self-blame after breakup or relational loss, and nurturing emotional recovery through grief. Discover resilience, self-compassion, and letting go while staying true to yourself.