About
Michelle Martin Hurlbert, MACC, LCMHCS, LPCS
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina (S9059) and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in South Carolina (9577).
I have nearly two decades of clinical experience and particular expertise in complex trauma and dissociation, including Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). I also work with many clients whose struggles are less overtly complex but are still deeply connected to developmental, relational, or traumatic experiences.
In the room, I am warm, calm, curious, and attentive to pace. I want to get to know all of who you are—including the protective or critical parts that may have good reasons for being cautious. I pay attention to what feels tolerable and to the ways you let me know, verbally or nonverbally, when we need to slow down.
My work is informed by attachment theory, ego-state approaches, structural dissociation, and somatic perspectives. I'm an EMDR Certified Therapist and hold an Advanced Certificate in Complex Trauma and Dissociation from the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD). I also use clinical hypnosis, parts work, somatic awareness, and movement when they fit the person and the work.
I earned my Master of Arts in Christian Counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. For clients who want it, Christian faith can be meaningfully integrated into therapy—including room for questions, anger, grief, doubt, and uncertainty.
"I have consulted to Michelle on many of her clients who have suffered severe trauma from their childhoods and clients who have experienced traumatic single events. She has consistently brought them along in their therapy to feel safe and in control of their lives. Michelle is an expert at helping people deal with their past and current traumatic experiences in a systematic and supportive way. I highly recommend her as a therapist for anyone who wants to be treated by a person who understands what they have gone through and knows how to develop a plan to help them meet their goals."
- Nancy Lasater, LCSW, EMDR Consultant
Rachel Robinson, MACC, LCMHCA, LPC-A
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) in North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A) in South Carolina. I earned my Master of Arts in Christian Counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.
I believe many of the ways we relate to ourselves and others are shaped by earlier experiences. Therapy offers an opportunity to understand these patterns with curiosity and compassion. Whether you are navigating the effects of trauma, struggling with relationships or self-worth, feeling disconnected from yourself or others, exploring questions of identity and meaning, or facing a significant life transition, I aim to provide an environment where meaningful growth can unfold at a pace that feels manageable.
I view therapy as a relational process grounded in trust and respect. My approach draws from attachment theory and trauma-informed care and acknowledges the connection between mind and body. We will explore how past experiences and relationships continue to influence the way you think, feel, and relate to others today. I tailor therapy to your goals, strengths, cultural background, and readiness for change.
Just as much wounding often happens in relationship with others, I believe healing can also happen through relationship. My hope is that you experience therapy as a place where you feel understood, supported, and safe enough to explore yourself more fully. Through that process, you can develop greater awareness of your emotions and practice healthier ways of relating to yourself and others. For clients who desire it, I also offer the optional integration of Christian faith and spiritual practices into the counseling process.
I currently offer telehealth appointments on Tuesday afternoons and evenings, as well as in-person and telehealth appointments on Thursdays and Fridays. Additional Saturday availability will be available beginning in October.
Outside of the counseling office, I enjoy spending time outdoors through running and biking, expressing creativity through dance and sewing projects, and savoring a strong cup of coffee. I consider it a privilege to be part of each client's healing journey.
