Michelle is an amazing therapist! In my experience, she does a great job helping me understand root causes for many of my challenges and helps me navigate stressful (and often overwhelming situations). I really appreciate how prepared and focused she is for our sessions. In the time we’ve worked together, she’s understood how I work and has tailored our sessions in a way I can understand better. I’m a data driven person and because of this she uses examples of how and why this plays a key contributor of my emotional decision-making skills. I’ve had many eye opening sessions thanks to Michelle!
Michelle Dothager, LCSW
Experienced mental health professional
Provides online counseling through BetterHelp
At a glance
Michelle is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.
- 4.5 stars
- Clients are very satisfied with Michelle. View 3 reviews
- Speaks English
- Offers Telehealth visits
- Licensed in Illinois
Recent reviews
Michelle listens and offers resources to further strengthen the work we do in each session
More about Michelle
- 15 years' experience
- Female
- LCSW
You will find that I love pairing creativity with intuition and a good pragmatic approach. I have over 15 years of experience in the field of behavioral health and addictions treatment. My experience with children, adolescents and adults has taught me that as humans, we share many common threads and themes. Yet, each person and family has their own distinct story. As such, I endeavor to respect those differences, acknowledge individuality and hold space based on your unique needs and expectations.
By simply reading this bio and considering therapy you are moving with intention. For whatever purpose you are here. Do not miss an opportunity to recognize this step as progress. These self-directed moves are the combination of actions that ultimately propel you toward the direction you seek.
We have been taught to expect that when we employ certain linear, orderly, step-wise or karmic principles that life will reward you. Although this may serve us well under certain conditions. As time unravels, the flaw in this theory becomes evident.
Many of us come to find that maintaining wellness is complicated by factors that we may or may not have control over. We are deeply impacted by things like personal history, biology, traumatic experiences, relationships, and losses. Many of which we may not be equipped for. Therefore, we have to work to develop resilience, gain insight, and find relief.
I’m reminded of the classic song, Tom Sawyer by Rush, “Always hopeful, yet discontent, they know changes aren't permanent, but change is”. Our foundation of hope is this. Although changes may be unpredictable. They are not always permanent and never have to be unmanageable. Even though, at times, may feel that way.
I value all questions, so please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Specialties
Treatment Approaches
- Client-Centered Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Existential Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing
- Solution-Focused Therapy
Licenses
Michelle Dothager's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is 1437893781.
- LCSW · Illinois · 149020495 · Expires November 2025
About online counseling
- Affordable.
- Pay a low flat fee.
- Convenient.
- Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
- Available now.
- There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.
Online counseling allows you to receive care from a mental health practitioner via phone, video chat, or instant messaging. It is convenient for those who may have trouble getting to or would prefer not to have in-person therapy appointments. Starting at $65 per week, online counseling is generally more affordable than in-person counseling. A study by researchers at University of California, Berkeley found that online counseling can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy while being more convenient, affordable, and accessible.
Reviews for Michelle Dothager
All reviews have been submitted by clients after seeing the provider.
Overall rating:
Michelle is an amazing therapist! In my experience, she does a great job helping me understand root causes for many of my challenges and helps me navigate stressful (and often overwhelming situations). I really appreciate how prepared and focused she is for our sessions. In the time we’ve worked together, she’s understood how I work and has tailored our sessions in a way I can understand better. I’m a data driven person and because of this she uses examples of how and why this plays a key contributor of my emotional decision-making skills. I’ve had many eye opening sessions thanks to Michelle!
Michelle listens and offers resources to further strengthen the work we do in each session
Great
Frequently asked questions
Does Michelle Dothager offer telehealth visits?
Yes. Michelle Dothager works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.
What language(s) does Michelle Dothager speak?
Michelle Dothager speaks English.
How many years of experience does Michelle Dothager have?
Michelle Dothager has 15 years of experience.
Where is Michelle Dothager licensed to practice?
Michelle Dothager is licensed to practice in Illinois.
Does Michelle Dothager accept clients outside of the United States?
No, Michelle Dothager does not accept clients outside of the United States.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."
What treatment approaches does Michelle Dothager offer?
Michelle Dothager offers clients Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Existential Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
How can I communicate with Michelle Dothager?
Michelle Dothager can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.
How do I get started with Michelle Dothager?
Just tap the CHAT NOW button or tap here: A new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation. Please note: It can take up to a few days to be matched to a therapist.
Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.
And recovery is possible.
When you tap CHAT NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation. Please note: It can take up to a few days to be matched to a therapist.