Services

I believe that engaging in the psychotherapy process is a courageous step in your efforts toward growth and healing. I approach psychotherapy as a unique kind of learning process that is facilitated by a collaborative therapeutic relationship and a confidential, safe environment. I am committed to upholding the professional boundaries and ethics in the therapeutic relationship that allow me to utilize my skills and experience to focus on your goals for growth and healing. It is both a privilege and responsibility to have the opportunity to earn your trust and honor the vulnerability and confidentiality of the personal information you share with me.

My role is to be a listener, facilitator, teacher, and advocate. I learn with clients through their journeys from despair to hope, confusion to clarity, fear to courage, and shame to worthiness. I believe thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and belief systems can change and that vulnerability is the courageous opposite of weakness that can open a pathway to change.

Michele E. Burgner, MSSW, LCSW
Michele E. Burgner, MSSW, LCSW

Areas of Specialization

I work primarily with adults in individual psychotherapy. Occasionally I work with adults as a family group. Areas of practice I have extensive experience in include:

  • Depression, anxiety, and panic
  • Existential concerns about meaning and purpose
  • Gender and sexual orientation, support for navigating identity and authenticity
  • Grief, loss and bereavement; Specialty emphasis on grief related to the loss of a pet
  • History of spiritual/religious fundamentalism/extremism
  • Relationship issues: communication challenges, breakups/divorce, conflict among family, peers, or in the workplace
  • Shame, guilt, and fear
  • Significant life transitions and changes
  • Stress management/coping skills
  • Trauma-related to physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect/maltreatment, betrayal and devastating events

Pet Loss and Grief -
Support & Guidance

I have deep respect for the significant bond that exists in the relationship between people and our pet companions (dog, cat, horse, bird, pig ... and the list goes happily on). I understand the depth and complexity of emotions that can occur when people experience the anticipated or unexpected loss of a pet companion. I appreciate the opportunity to offer support and guidance during such a difficult time to pet parents, extended family and professionals in veterinary medicine.

Find more support resources at the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB).

Michele E. Burgner, MSSW, LCSW
Michele E. Burgner, MSSW, LCSW

Scheduling/Appointments

I schedule appointments Monday through Friday, between 830 am –330 pm. Contact me to inquire about specific availability. Email communication is my preference, but you are welcome to leave a message on my confidential voice mailbox.

I am currently seeing clients via telehealth only, using a HIPAA compliant Zoom platform. I have experienced online sessions to be very effective in facilitating meaningful therapeutic work while also offering clients convenience and flexibility.

I am attentive to information provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO)and the Tennessee Department of Health regarding the risks of COVID-19 infection and accessible measures for preventing severe illness. I am evaluating options for a future space to meet clients in person that allows ample ventilation and sufficient space for social distancing.

Please contact me for more information or to request an appointment.

Initial Client Paperwork