Counseling for the Too Loud, Too Sensitive, Too Much
A space for deep feelers, big thinkers, and those who’ve been told they’re “too much.”
Licensed Professional Counselor TX #62504
I’m Michelle—wife, mom, therapist, and someone who genuinely loves helping people feel more at ease in their lives.
I bring years of experience working in mental health, from the intensity of inpatient psychiatric hospitals to the structure of schools, and now the meaningful, personalized work of private practice. These settings taught me how to be steady, curious, and compassionate, with a clear focus on what actually helps people create lasting change.
In our work together, I use proven approaches like CBT, solution-focused strategies, and person-centered therapy, while also integrating trauma-informed care, somatic practices, DBT skills, and strengths-based techniques. This means our sessions are tailored to fit your unique needs and give you practical tools you can use right away.
Beyond credentials and methods, I bring real-life perspective. I have been married for 18 years and am raising a vibrant, funny 10-year-old daughter. I know that life can be full, complicated, and unpredictable, and I carry that understanding into the therapy room with warmth and authenticity.
If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready for something to change, I would be honored to support you. Together, we will create a space where you can breathe, gain clarity, and move toward the life you want.
Licensed Professional Counselor TX #62504
Populations I Work With
In my practice, I specialize in helping people navigate life transitions, emotional challenges, and relationship difficulties. I work with children, teens, and adults of all ages who are ready to explore their inner world and create meaningful change. Many of my clients come to therapy seeking clarity, healing, and practical tools to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, or relational stress.
I especially enjoy working with individuals who are introspective, curious, and motivated, whether they are beginning therapy for the first time or continuing their journey of personal growth. I also have a strong interest in supporting neurodivergent clients, including those with ADHD and autism, and in creating a validating space where their perspectives and experiences are respected.
As an affirming therapist and LGBTQ+ ally, I welcome and support trans, nonbinary, and queer clients in all aspects of identity and lived experience. Whether navigating gender exploration, coming out, or facing the weight of systemic or interpersonal discrimination, you deserve a space where you can be fully seen and supported.
No matter what brings you to therapy, whether processing past trauma, managing current stressors, or seeking greater balance and fulfillment, I strive to offer a grounded, compassionate environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow.
My Therapeutic Approach
I believe therapy should be both practical and deeply supportive. My foundation is in evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Strengths-Based approaches. These give clients clear tools and strategies they can use right away, while also creating space for meaningful reflection and growth.
Because healing is never one-size-fits-all, I also integrate somatic practices, DBT skills, and trauma-informed techniques to support emotional regulation, body awareness, and deeper healing. My style is collaborative and flexible, grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own life.
No matter what brings you to therapy, I work to create a safe, compassionate space where you feel understood and empowered to make real, lasting change.
To request an ESA evaluation, please email info@michellelowdercounseling.com with ESA in the subject line.
Living with a mental health condition can be challenging, and sometimes additional support makes a big difference. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) provide comfort, stability, and therapeutic benefits for many individuals coping with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other conditions.
I provide professional ESA evaluations for clients across Texas. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I ensure that every evaluation is ethical, thorough, and legally valid under the Fair Housing Act (FHA).
Why Choose a Licensed ESA Evaluation?
Unfortunately, many websites advertise “instant” or “quick” ESA letters without a proper evaluation. These letters are often rejected by landlords and housing providers because they don’t meet legal standards.
In Texas, you must be properly evaluated by a licensed mental health professional in order to receive a valid ESA letter. My evaluations are conducted via telehealth, making the process convenient, private, and accessible.
ESA Evaluation Services
Initial ESA Evaluation (New Clients)
$175 — 30-minute telehealth session, 1-week turnaround
$225 — 30-minute telehealth session, 48-hour expedited service
ESA Letter Renewal (Established Clients)
$100 — 1-week turnaround
$150 — 48-hour expedited service
What’s Included in Your ESA Evaluation?
A 30- minute telehealth assessment of your mental health history and current symptoms.
A determination of whether an ESA is a clinically appropriate support for your needs.
A legally valid ESA letter that complies with Texas requirements and federal housing laws.
Clear documentation to support reasonable accommodation requests with landlords or housing providers.
Emotional Support Animal Evaluations
Services Offered
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Individual Counseling Services
Michelle Lowder Counseling offers thoughtful, individualized teletherapy sessions designed to meet the needs of children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and relational challenges.
Clients can expect a collaborative and affirming approach, grounded in empathy, insight, and practical strategies. Michelle’s work integrates lived experience, clinical expertise, and a deep respect for neurodiversity, identity, and cultural context. Therapy is paced to honor where you are today, while supporting growth in areas like emotional regulation, communication, boundaries, and self-worth.
What sets this practice apart is the balance of structure and flexibility. Sessions are warm, direct, and focused, but never rushed. Whether you're working through past trauma, managing stress, or just trying to feel more like yourself, Michelle creates a space where you're not just understood, you’re empowered.
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Coming Soon
Individual Teletherapy Services for Residents in California
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ADHD Evaluations
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a background as a School Psychologist, I offer comprehensive clinical evaluations for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for adolescents and adults. These evaluations are conducted under LPC regulations and professional ethical guidelines to ensure accurate, clinically sound results.
My process includes a detailed clinical interview, use of evidence-based rating scales, and collection of collateral information when appropriate. This is a clinical assessment designed to clarify symptoms and support mental health treatment planning — not a neuropsychological or medical diagnostic assessment. While you are welcome to share results with schools (504/IEP committees), employers, or healthcare providers, educational accommodations, workplace accommodations, and medication management are not guaranteed and remain at the discretion of those entities.
Evaluations are available via secure telehealth in accordance with all applicable state rules and regulations.
Insurances Accepted
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
Optum
UnitedHealthcare EAP/Optum EAP/Cigna EAP
Magellan
Oscar Health
KelseyCare Health Plans
Cash Pay
ADHD Evaluations
Hourly Rate: $150 per hour
Estimated Total: Most evaluations take 3–5 hours (total estimate: $450–$750)
Includes: Clinical interview, scoring of rating scales, written summary report, and 30-minute feedback session
Additional Services: If further testing or consultation is needed, additional time will be billed at the same hourly rate and discussed with you in advance.
Payment is due at the time of service unless prior arrangements are made.
To request an ADHD evaluation, please email info@michellelowdercounseling.com with ADHD in the subject line.
I charge $75 for a 45-minute session or $100 for a 60-minute session. Additionally, I offer a sliding scale fee to accommodate varying financial needs. Please feel free to ask if you would like to discuss this option.
Emotional Support Animal Evaluations
To request an ESA evaluation, please email info@michellelowdercounseling.com with ESA in the subject line.
Initial ESA Evaluation (New Clients)
$175 — 30–45 minute telehealth session, 1-week turnaround
$225 — 30–45 minute telehealth session, 48-hour expedited service
ESA Letter Renewal (Established Clients)
$100 — 1-week turnaround
$150 — 48-hour expedited service
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Therapy
1. How does online therapy work?
Online therapy sessions are held via secure, HIPAA-compliant video calls, allowing you to connect with Michelle from anywhere with internet access—whether at home, work, or on the go.
2. Is online therapy confidential and secure?
Absolutely. Your privacy is a top priority. Sessions use encrypted platforms designed to keep all communications private and secure.
3. What equipment or software do I need?
You’ll need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet, a camera, and a microphone. Michelle will provide easy instructions to help you get started.
4. Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Yes. Many studies show that online therapy is equally effective for anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and a wide range of mental health concerns.
5. Can I use insurance for online therapy?
Many insurance plans cover telehealth services, but coverage varies. Please check with your insurance provider or Michelle directly for details.
6. How do I schedule and pay for sessions?
Scheduling and payment are simple through the online portal.
8. What if I have a crisis during online therapy?
Michelle will discuss emergency protocols with you, including local resources and crisis lines, to ensure your safety. Be sure to share your current location at the start of each session.
9. Is online therapy right for me?
Online therapy works well for many people, especially those managing anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and stress. Michelle can help determine if this format fits your needs.
10. What should I expect from the free 15-minute consultation?
During your free 15-minute consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to briefly share what brings you to therapy and ask any questions you may have about the process. This session is a no-pressure chance to get to know Michelle, learn how online therapy works, and determine if it feels like a good fit for your needs. It’s not a therapy session, but a supportive introduction to help you take the next step toward your mental wellness.
ADHD Evaluation FAQ
What does an ADHD evaluation include?
The evaluation process typically includes:A comprehensive clinical interview to review symptoms, history, and concerns
Evidence-based ADHD rating scales completed by you (and, when appropriate, parents/teachers/partners)
Review of relevant records (school, medical, or work performance)
A feedback session where results and recommendations are discussed
How long does the process take?
Most evaluations take 3–5 hours total, which includes interview time, scoring, interpretation, and the written summary report. If additional assessment is needed (for example, to clarify co-occurring conditions), this will be discussed with you before proceeding.Is this a neuropsychological or medical evaluation?
No. This is a clinical evaluation conducted under LPC regulations to clarify ADHD symptoms for mental health treatment planning. It is not a full neuropsychological battery and does not provide IQ or cognitive testing.Will this guarantee school or workplace accommodations?
No. While you are welcome to share your results with schools, 504/IEP committees, or employers, accommodations are not guaranteed and are ultimately determined by those entities.Will this get me a prescription for ADHD medication?
No. As an LPC, I do not prescribe medication. You may share your results with your prescribing provider to support treatment decisions.Can this be done via telehealth?
Yes — evaluations are offered via secure telehealth in accordance with state regulations, making the process convenient and accessible.
Contact Me
For a free 15 minute consultation to see if Michelle is right for you, email info@michellelowdercounseling.com
Ready to book? Click on the link below!
