(720) 900-4713
Michele@HopefulPathwaysCounseling.com
Virtual or In-person therapy available
Michele Story, LSW (she/her/hers)
(Contract Therapist)
Living with trauma, anxiety, or overwhelming stress that just won’t go away—no matter what you try? Before starting therapy, many of my clients feel overwhelmed by chronic anxiety, irritability, or difficulty concentrating that interferes with daily life. Their physical health often suffers too—through insomnia, fatigue, digestive issues, or a weakened immune system. Even more confusing, they find themselves stuck in frustrating patterns—people-pleasing, perfectionism, addictive behaviors, or toxic relationships—without understanding why. They’ve worked hard to cope, but nothing seems to create the deep relief they’re looking for.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. I’d be honored to support you. I bring curiosity, compassion, and a deeply grounding presence to our work together. With my “detective hat” on and my well-stocked therapy tool belt—filled with trauma-informed, evidence-based strategies and somatic techniques—we will work together get to the root of what’s keeping you stuck, so you can move toward a life that feels safe, joyful, and fulfilling.
Before private practice, I worked in hospice and palliative care, supporting individuals and families through the intense emotional terrain of chronic illness, caregiving, and end-of-life. Alongside my clinical training, my own recovery from chronic health issues and trauma have transformed how I understand the nervous system and support healing from the deep imprint trauma can leave on both mind and body.
I’m an unapologetic neuroscience nerd and I love integrating nervous-system-informed and body-based tools that support transformative, lasting healing. Clients often tell me they feel safe, grounded, and understood in our work together—like they can finally begin to release what’s been living beneath the surface for years, rather than just managing symptoms.
I hold a BA in Psychology and Health & Human Services (2009) and a Master’s in Social Work (2015) from the University at Buffalo (yes—that place known for its serious snow!). I’ve been a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Colorado since 2016 (LSW.0009922107).
Outside of therapy, I treasure time with my two amazing boys and husband. In my free time, you might find me playing D&D, League of Legends, or Baldur’s Gate, out walking or hiking, tossing a frisbee at the park, or conquering an escape room—or two!
If you're ready to move beyond your current challenges and start truly thriving, then let’s connect!
Schedule a free consultation so we can see if it feels like a good fit.
Your future self is already thanking you!
Treatment Modalities I Use:
Attachment-Based Therapy
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)
Brainspotting
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Neuropsychotherapy
Somatic Experiencing (SE)
Areas of Specialty
Car Accident, Post-Concussion & TBI
Life Transitions
Stress Management & Burnout
Attachment & Relationship Challenges
Maternal Mental Health
Trauma
Anxiety & Panic
Grief & Loss
Chronic or Serious Illness & Autoimmunity
Caregivers