About Michelle Finley, Bsc, M.A., C.C.C., Canadian Certified Counsellor
Michelle is a Canadian Certified Counsellor with a Master’s degree in Expressive Therapies and Mental Health Counselling from Lesley University. With over 17 years of experience in the mental health field—and more than a decade as an addiction counsellor—Michelle brings both depth and diversity to her therapeutic work. Her earlier career as a police officer with the Edmonton Police Service gives her a unique understanding of the pressures faced by first responders and individuals navigating high-stress environments.
Michelle offers a flexible and creative approach to therapy, drawing on a wide range of tools to meet each client’s unique needs. She is certified in both Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT tapping), and Pain Reprocessing Therapy, and regularly incorporates mindfulness practices, motivational interviewing, expressive therapies, and solution-focused strategies into her sessions. Her training in expressive therapies allows her to use art, music, movement, and writing to help clients explore and process emotions in ways that feel safe and empowering.
Deeply committed to a holistic approach, Michelle also draws on body-based practices, including energy psychology and Reiki, to support emotional and physical well-being. With a background in both science and spiritual care—she earned her Bachelor of Science at the University of Alberta while becoming a Reiki Master—Michelle values the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit in the healing process.
Michelle works with teens, adults, first responders, veterans, and individuals from immigrant and refugee backgrounds. She provides individual therapy (not couples counselling) and has a special interest in supporting those navigating anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, substance misuse, complicated grief and loss, and parenting or relationship challenges.
Clients often describe Michelle as compassionate, grounded, and insightful—someone who brings a strong sense of safety, wisdom, and creativity into the therapy space.
Michelle is trained in Pain Reprocessing Therapy and is registered with ACTA - Association of Counselling Therapy of Alberta.
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