Golden Hour
Counseling

I'm happy you're here.
Our Staff

Michelle Stafford, LCSW
Founder & Therapist
she/her/hers
I am an Arkansas born, Nashville native of 8 years. I am the middle child of a big, loud, and lovingly chaotic family where I learned my grounded-ness and laid back nature. I grew up Catholic, came out in my early twenties, and have been deconstructing what religion and spirituality means to me since. I can't imagine a better job than being a therapist. I often end my days feeling mind-blown I get to do this for a living. My hope is that it is incredibly obvious how much I love my job and how wonderful it is to show up for you. I am a life-long learner (a bit of a nerd) and am constantly broadening what I know about therapy and how it can offer relief for my clients. I currently love using EMDR & IFS in session. I consider most difficult moments in life an invitation to practice something that likely does not come naturally for you: letting go of control, allowing yourself to experience your emotions without being consumed, or creating safety in your body following a trauma. I see therapy as an opportunity to take a closer look and bring a different approach to life.
My passion in counseling is creating genuine relationships built on trust, cultivating hope, and creating tangible change. This means I want my clients to feel like they really know me, and I know them. I may share parts of my story that might be applicable to what you're going through.
When I’m not providing therapy, I’m spending time with my partner, training our goofy dogs, and trying desperately to keep my indoor plants alive. I love living in East Nashville and serving the greater TN area.
​

Credentials + Education
Licensed Clinical Social Worker in TN
​
Certified Trauma Treatment Specialist
​
Certified in Animal Assisted Therapy
​
Trained in EMDR, IFS, & EFIT
​
Masters of Social Work - University of TN
​
Bachelors of Social Work - University of AR