About Michelle
Hello! My name is Michelle Keener, and I am currently a student intern pursuing my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My journey has been quite the adventure! As the wife of a retired Marine, I know all too well the unique challenges and rewards of being part of a military family. My husband served in three combat deployments, and we moved 9 times in 21 years. After my husband retired, we settled in Las Vegas with our two children and our resilient senior pup, Bobo.
Before diving into the counseling world, I had a fulfilling career as a writer. Even though I had wanted to return to school for years, between raising my children, writing books, and serving in ministry, I thought it wasn’t possible. However, when online schooling became an option for my children in 2020, I thought: “I can do that, too!” And I have been thrilled to be able to pursue a career in counseling!
In my free time, I love baking, reading, and writing. Since the sun and I are not the best of friends, I cherish my indoor activities. Whether it’s whipping up a batch of cookies or getting lost in a good book, I find joy in the little things. I’m excited to bring my diverse experiences and passion for helping others into our sessions together!
How I Help
My approach to therapy is rooted in collaboration and curiosity. My goal is to create a warm and welcoming environment where you feel free to be yourself. We’ll work together to understand your unique experiences and how they have shaped your life. I believe that you are the expert on your life, and my role is to support you in exploring your thoughts and beliefs and how they might be influenced by past experiences or external factors like trauma, relationships, or life transitions. My therapy is individualized and client-driven, always addressing your specific needs and experiences above all else.
I blend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a Person-Centered approach to help you understand how your thoughts, beliefs, and experiences impact you. I frequently hear my clients say they feel like there is no one they can really talk to about the things they have been through. I understand that talking about the things that have hurt us can be scary, and the healing process often involves change. But growth and healing are possible, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. I am particularly well-versed in church hurt and military/first responder trauma, and I understand the specifics of each of those arenas.
I am so grateful that you are willing to entrust me with your story and allow me to walk with you through it. I believe your story matters and that you have the ability to rewrite it—and as we all know, everyone loves a good plot twist!
More About Michelle
Education
Bachelor in Arts, Theater with a Minor in Religion – California Lutheran University – 1995
Master in Theological Studies, Focus in Systematic Theology – Claremont School of Theology –
2005
PhD in Biblical Studies, Dissertation Topic: Trauma in the Bible – Liberty University – 2023
Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Liberty University – Currently Pursuing
credentials
Liberty University Student Therapist
Certified Trauma Professional
Certified SYMBIS (Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts) Assessment Facilitator
Award Winning & Best Selling Author