Michelle McHugh, LICSW, LCSW

Michelle McHugh is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, listed as LICSW in Alabama and LCSW in Arkansas, with 23 years of clinical experience. She works with people facing stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, depression, relationship strain, grief, sleep problems, low self-esteem, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.

She trained at NYU School of Social Work and has worked across inpatient addiction rehabs, inpatient psychiatric units, and outpatient mental health clinics. That mix gives her experience with substance use concerns and mood disorders, and with people who have long histories of trauma.

Michelle has served more than a decade as a Behavioral Health Officer in the Army National Guard and has worked with active Guard members and veterans from multiple branches. That background informs her practical approach to military-related stress, post-traumatic stress, and first responder issues.

Her style is collaborative and direct. Sessions avoid stigmatizing language and focus on concrete skills. She draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness practices, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused methods, and EMDR when appropriate.

Clients can expect a focus on reducing shame, addressing codependency, and supporting recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. Michelle also helps with gender and sexuality questions, prejudice and discrimination, aging concerns, and seasonal mood shifts. She works with each person to set clear goals and practical steps for change.

How Michelle uses evidence-based approaches online