Desiderata Counseling

Person-Centered Therapy for Healing & Growth

About Me

Hi, I’m Michelle Debelis (she/her), a Licensed Professional Counselor and the founder of Desiderata Counseling.

I am a cisgender, queer-identified counselor in Portland, Oregon with an approach to therapy grounded in empathy, curiosity, and respect. I believe that healing happens in safe, authentic relationships and that each person naturally strives to become their best selves. However, life is known to throw curveballs. I view my role as someone that helps people find their path and work towards their goals.

Originally from New Hampshire, I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Plymouth State University and have been providing therapeutic services since 2017 serving adults, children, and families. My professional background includes work in community mental health, crisis intervention, and ongoing outpatient counseling, giving me a deep appreciation for the many ways people grow and heal. I am also an established telehealth & community-based provider, experienced in helping clients through secure virtual sessions and in the community when appropriate. I do not currently offer in-person office appointments, though this may change in the future.

My practice is person-centered and collaborative, informed by training in Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). These approaches and more help guide treatment while keeping clients in the driver’s seat. Feel free to reach out with any questions about my approach to therapy - a consultation is a great place to start if you are curious.

I’m especially passionate about helping clients reconnect with their inner voice, navigate transitions, and build lives rooted in self-compassion and meaning. My work is informed by an anti-carceral, trauma-informed lens, honoring the systemic contexts that shape our individual experiences and emphasizing autonomy throughout the healing process.

Whether we meet virtually or in the community, my goal is to meet you exactly where you are - with warmth, openness, and respect.

Consultation - No Cost

Finding the right fit in counseling is important. This complimentary 15-minute virtual (phone or video meeting) consultation offers a chance for us to connect, discuss what brings you to therapy, and determine whether my approach feels like a good match for your needs. There’s no pressure to commit — just an opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of what working together might look like.

Adult Counseling

Individual therapy (50 min) provides a supportive space to explore your experiences, emotions, and mental health at your own pace. Together, we’ll work to understand the deeper meaning behind what you’re feeling, identify strengths, and move toward meaningful change. Sessions are currently virtual or community-based with client consent. Cost is determined on a sliding scale of $80-150, insurance is not accepted at this time but this will change in the future.

Adolescent Counseling

Adolescence can be a time of both growth and challenge. I provide a warm, judgment-free space for teens to express themselves, build emotional awareness, and develop healthy ways to navigate relationships, stress, mental health challenges, and trauma. I also collaborate with caregivers as appropriate to support each teen’s goals while respecting their privacy and independence in the therapeutic process. Sessions are currently 50 min & virtual. Cost is determined on a sliding scale of $80-150, insurance is not accepted at this time though this will change in the future.

Inquire Below

For appointments or questions, please email: mdebelis@desideratacounseling.com

Now accepting new clients.

Based in Portland, Oregon

Offering telehealth services across the state. Please note: I am only able to work with clients residing in Oregon.

This website is for informational purposes only and is not intended for crisis or emergency care.

If you are in crisis or need immediate help:

Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
Contact your county’s mental health crisis line
Or go to your nearest emergency department

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