Hi, I’m Natalia Michaelson (she/her)!

Therapist in Orange County

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As a biracial therapist with lived experience in eating disorder and trauma recovery, I bring both personal understanding and professional expertise to my work.

I recognize that relationships with food, body, and self can be complex. I am here to help you reconnect with these aspects of yourself with compassion and respect.

The human experience can be challenging in of itself. This can be further compounded when you’re navigating the world in a marginalized body. You deserve a therapist who gets it and is willing to listen with curiosity and warmth, without questioning your lived experience.

Areas of Focus

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  • Internal Family Systems (IFS)

  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Mindfulness

  • Brainspotting

Modalities Used

My Professional Experience

Education

  • BA in Psychology from California State University, San Marcos

  • Master of Social Work (MSW) from Simmons University

  • Health at Every Size® (HAES®) Informed

  • Intuitive Eating Informed

Trainings

My Approach and Theoretical Orientation

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  • Draws upon attachment and feminist theories

  • Focuses on building an authentic and comfortable therapeutic relationship

  • Prioritizes your autonomy and active participation

  • Respects and honors your body’s readiness and pacing

  • Meets you with curiosity, empathy, and compassion

  • Acknowledges and explores of the broader impact of societal forces like systemic oppression

  • Involves awareness of how systems and experiences create disconnection between you and your body

Who I am as a therapist…

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Committed Learner

I’m committed to lifelong learning, especially when it comes to understanding and unpacking my own intersecting identities—both privileged and marginalized. This work is personal and ongoing, and it helps me connect meaningfully with others who may also feel the complexity of navigating different cultural or social expectations.

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Collaborator

I take a non-shaming, collaborative approach and believe your autonomy and agency should remain at the forefront of this process. It is your healing journey after all. I’m on your team, not here to take over or go against you.

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Body Liberation Advocate

I believe that it’s crucial to make the world a safer place for all bodies and body sizes. Your story and lived experiences are unique and deserve to be held and heard. I strive to help you feel more empowered and liberated in a society that may tell you otherwise.

Who I am as a human…

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Crocheter

I love to crochet! I’ve made plants, flowers, stuffed animals, fruit, coasters, and other fun things. Crocheting has been something that’s helped me practice mindfulness and I’ll forever be grateful for it.

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Reader

I nerd out on therapy books and non-fiction material. I’m always adding a new book to my never-ending list of books that I’m pretty sure will be impossible to get to in my lifetime.

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Animal Lover

I have such a soft spot in my heart for animals and always enjoy impromptu pet appearances in sessions. I also have a senior dog of my own who knows he’s got me wrapped around his finger.

Interested in working together?

✦

Interested in working together? ✦

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If you think we’d be a good fit, I’d love to hear from you!