36: Climbing the Mountain: Risk, Resilience, and Building a Thriving Practice with Michelle Petty

In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Petty, a play therapist and Brainspotting practitioner, to explore her journey from early intervention and attachment work to becoming a successful business owner. Michelle shares how her achievement-driven mindset and task-oriented nature initially made it difficult for her to take big risks—until a deep Brainspotting session revealed a powerful metaphor: a mountain she had to climb on her own.

With the support of her community and a trusted business partner, Michelle took the leap into private practice. She reflects on the challenges of stepping away from agency work, the fear of financial instability (especially as a single mother), and the lessons she’s learned about adaptability, balance, and trusting the process.

Throughout our conversation, Michelle highlights the power of women supporting women in professional spaces, the role her mother played as a role model, and how taking risks has positively impacted not only her career but also her son’s mindset. She embraces being a role model, both for those who lean on her professionally and for her son, who has taken an interest in the mental health field. In fact, he once asked her, “When do I get the keys to the castle?”—a reminder of how deeply her journey has inspired him.

Join us for an inspiring discussion on resilience, self-trust, and the rewards of stepping into the unknown.

🔹 Topics Covered:

• Transitioning from agency work to private practice
• How Brainspotting helped her gain clarity and confidence
• Navigating financial fears and single parenthood while building a business
• The importance of community and mentorship for personal and professional growth
• Finding balance between work and fun after COVID
• How risk-taking influences the next generation
• Embracing being a role model for others

Michelle is a highly skilled mental health professional with over a decade of experience specializing in anxiety, trauma, depression, and personal growth. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Brainspotting Consultant, she integrates diverse therapeutic approaches, including Brainspotting, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Attachment, and other experiential techniques. With a strong foundation in child development and family-centered care, Michelle is passionate about advancing the mental health field through professional training and collaboration with community partners. Outside her practice, she enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and nurturing her love for new experiences.

Want to know how you can begin your journey to hope and healing? Visit Elevated Life Academy for classes and free resources for personal development and healing. 

Resources:

CherieLindberg.com

ElevatedLifeAcademy.com

Guest Links:

You can explore more of Michelle Petty's work and insights through the following links:

https://www.altwellnesstherapies.com/