- Stress and anxiety
- Creative therapy options
- Financial concerns
About Michelle
Michelle Pliska, LPC-MH, LPCC helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and big life changes. She also supports people working through LGBT questions, caregiving strain, workplace trouble, and financial stress. Michelle writes in a direct, calm way and aims to listen first so each person feels heard.
She has 18 years of professional experience in South Dakota. Her background includes clinical mental health work and roles in educational settings from middle and high schools to college. She also has experience connected to juvenile justice systems, which shaped her practical approach to problem solving.
Michelle offers traditional talk therapy and is registered as a play therapist, so sessions can include music, art, or other creative activities when that fits the client. She focuses on building a safe, nonjudgmental space where people can name feelings and try different ways to cope.
In sessions she listens closely, helps people sort options, and practices skills that can be used outside the therapy hour. She works with clients to set clear, realistic goals and checks progress along the way. That practical focus aims to make changes feel manageable instead of overwhelming.
People who choose her work with someone who values respect, steady support, and honest conversation. Michelle helps clients move toward the next step in life with compassion and straightforward guidance.
Approaches that guide online work and choice of method
Michelle uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques and brings a practical focus to sessions. One common approach she applies centers on talk therapy that helps people identify patterns, set small goals, and practice coping skills for anxiety, depression, and workplace stress. Another approach involves creative expressive work using music or art to help people process grief, shame, or difficult emotions when words are not enough.Finding the right approach is part of the early work together. She talks with each client about their needs, goals, and how they prefer to engage. That collaborative conversation guides whether the emphasis is on skill practice, creative expression, or a mix of both.
If you are considering online therapy, confirm the session formats available before booking since the biography does not list them explicitly. Online options can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy week, reduce travel time, and allow quicker check-ins between appointments. Different formats can also help when someone wants a shorter visit, a session without video, or a way to join from a quieter setting. Ask about the specific formats offered so you can choose what fits your routine and needs.
Areas of focus
Frequently asked questions
What issues does Michelle focus on?
She supports people with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and coping with life changes. Additional areas include LGBT matters, workplace problems, caregiver stress, and money and financial issues.
How would you describe her approach in sessions?
Sessions emphasize listening first and practical problem solving. She uses talk therapy and can add music, art, or creative activities when helpful.
What professional background does she bring?
She has 18 years of experience working in clinical mental health and educational settings, including middle and high schools and college, plus experience related to juvenile justice.
What credentials and location are listed?
Her credentials are LPC-MH and LPCC, and she practices in South Dakota.
Which languages are supported and can international clients be seen?
Sessions are offered in English. She is not accepting international clients at this time.
What session formats are offered?
The biography does not list specific session formats. Please confirm available formats before booking to make sure they meet your needs.
How does pricing work for sessions?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability, and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
What are the first steps to begin therapy?
Select the Start Therapy button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and then schedule sessions according to therapist availability.