Michelle earned her bachelor’s degree from Purdue University, where she developed a strong foundation in English and a passion for education. After graduation, she spent a decade teaching English at both the high school and middle school levels, guiding students through literature, writing, and critical thinking. Her commitment to education extended internationally, as she also spent time teaching English in Turkey—an experience that broadened her cultural understanding and deepened her teaching practice.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Michelle, like many educators, faced unprecedented challenges in the classroom. She quickly recognized that her students were struggling—not just academically, but emotionally. Despite her best efforts, she felt the support they needed went beyond what she could provide as a teacher. This realization inspired her to shift her professional path.

Determined to make a deeper impact, Michelle returned to school and pursued a master’s degree in counseling at William & Mary. With her new credentials and a renewed sense of purpose, she became a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor – Conditional (LCPC-C) and founded Sunshine Counseling. Through her practice, she now provides compassionate, individualized support to clients, combining her educational background with clinical expertise to help others thrive.