Our MissionIn 1969, the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland caught fire. Decades of industrial pollution caused the oil-laden water to burn. Like the waste that collected in the river until it ignited, trauma collects in a body until it erupts. Often, this is where we come in: Renwal River guides you through the release and processing of your trauma, with the end goal of moving forward.
The burning river was long seen as a symbol of destruction. But through the hard work of the Cleveland community and the passage of time and policies, the Cuyahoga has become a symbol of restoration and renewal. Inspired by the river’s transformation from ravaged to renewed, our mission at Renewal River is to walk with you through your struggles, help you reclaim your strength, rebuild critical connections, and renew your hope as you move into your future. We believe that healing is always possible. And healing flows forward.
Meet your therapist.
Michelle Gary, LPCC-S, is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over a decade of experience working in behavioral health. She has worked with individuals, couples, children, and families in various settings, including outpatient counseling, school-based therapy, crisis response, and community mental health.
Michelle is certified in EMDR, is credentialed for supervision, and has specialized training in systemic therapy and trauma-informed care. She earned her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Akron in 2013 and has a BA in Family Studies from Central Michigan University.
Michelle’s clinical experience includes:
Diagnostic assessment and treatment planning
Trauma and grief work
Family systems therapy
Crisis intervention
Supporting patients with co-morbid mental health and substance use concerns
Michelle founded Renewal River after years in agency settings to better meet the needs of her clients, as she believes in providing thoughtful, individualized care outside rigid program structures. In other words, Michelle tailors treatment plans to her patients, avoiding boxing patients into prescriptive programs that fail to account for the diverse needs that vary person to person.
Michelle’s approach combines evidence-based therapy with a collaborative and practical treatment style to help clients gain insight into their experiences, establish emotional stability, and make meaningful, lasting changes in their lives.
Let’s talk.
Whether you're ready to do some work, just want to get a better idea of how we can help you, or are committed to moving forward and healing, we’d love to connect with you.