Meet the Therapist

About Me: Michal Holker HBA BSW MSW, Registered Social Worker/Therapist,

Discovering my own neurodivergence later in life profoundly reshaped my understanding of self-acceptance, resilience, and the transformative power of compassionate support. My lived experience of life's adversities has informed my work with clients from all walks of life who are seeking to make meaningful changes and connect more deeply with their authentic selves.

While my niche is in working with individuals who identify as ADHD, autism, and AuDHD, my practice is inclusive of anyone navigating life’s challenges.

I understand the complexities, challenges, and moments of insight that come with self-discovery, and I’m here to walk alongside you as you navigate your own unique path.

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Professional Background

As a Registered Social Worker with over a decade of experience, I have experience supporting neurodivergent individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My approach is inclusive, neuro-affirming, and trauma-informed, offering personalized strategies to foster growth, resilience, and self-understanding in a compassionate, collaborative environment.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from the University of Toronto, a Bachelor of Social Work from Dalhousie University (2014), and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Windsor (2018). Since 2015, I have worked extensively in both inpatient and community mental health settings, addressing diverse and complex needs with an evidence-based, empathetic approach.

Combining professional expertise and lived experience, I am committed to helping clients navigate their challenges. My integrative approach is tailored to meet each individual's unique needs, creating a therapeutic environment that is inclusive, affirming, and grounded in empathy and respect.

My Approach: Compassionate, Integrative, and Neuro-Affirming

In our work together, I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences, share your challenges, and feel accepted for who you are. My integrative approach uses diverse therapeutic modalities to ensure that our work aligns with your needs, values, and goals. Here’s what you can expect from our sessions:

Neuro-affirming and Trauma-informed Approach

A neuro-affirming approach means honouring neurodivergence as a natural variation, not something to be “fixed” or altered to conform to traditional standards. I embrace each client’s individuality, validating the strengths and insights that come from neurodivergent perspectives. In doing so, I aim to help you recognize and embrace these aspects of yourself as valuable and worthy, fostering a positive sense of identity and self-worth.

At the same time, my trauma-informed approach acknowledges that many neurodivergent individuals have encountered experiences that may be traumatic, whether due to stigma, invalidation, or a lack of understanding from others. I create an environment where you can explore these experiences without judgment, moving at a pace that respects your comfort and readiness. This foundation of safety and compassion supports self-understanding and healing, helping you process past wounds and build resilience.

Diverse Therapeutic Modalities

My therapeutic approach is informed by a range of evidence-based practices, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). We will draw from these approaches to meet you where you are, dating them to your needs and ensuring that our sessions are supportive and aligned with your goals.

Strengths-Based and Client-Centred

Our work will centre on identifying and building upon your strengths, honouring your unique journey, and empowering you to draw on these qualities to navigate and overcome obstacles. Taking a client-centred, strengths-based approach means that I am here to listen deeply and respect your individual experiences, insights, and goals. Therapy is tailored to meet you where you are, allowing us to work collaboratively to find strategies that resonate with you personally and align with your values.

Existential and Humanist

Life as a neurodivergent adult often brings profound questions about identity, purpose, and belonging. Many clients experience a disconnect between their inner world and societal expectations, leading to reflections like, “Who am I?” and “How can I find my purpose or meaning?” My existential and humanistic approach to therapy offers a space to explore these themes with openness, self-compassion and acceptance.

Developing Acceptance and Compassion: Building a Foundation for Growth

Self-acceptance and compassion are essential for navigating life’s challenges and creating space for authentic growth. At Becoming Yourself Counselling, we believe that cultivating these qualities is not about ignoring struggles or difficulties; it’s about non-judgementally approaching them with curiosity and understanding. We’ll explore how to develop acceptance and compassion as powerful tools for transformation:

Acceptance: Life often presents us with experiences that feel overwhelming, unfair, or unchangeable. Acceptance doesn’t mean agreeing with these circumstances but learning to acknowledge them without judgment or resistance. By practicing acceptance, you can free yourself from the cycle of fighting reality and instead focus your energy on meaningful change.

Self-Compassion: Many of us are quick to offer kindness to others but struggle to extend the same care to ourselves. Self-compassion involves treating yourself with the same warmth and understanding you would a close friend. Through our work together, you’ll learn to soften self-criticism, replace judgment with curiosity, and build a supportive inner dialogue.

Creating Space for Growth: Acceptance doesn’t mean stagnation—it’s the first step toward meaningful change. By acknowledging where you are without judgment, you open the door to new possibilities and deeper self-awareness. Compassion gives you the strength to take those steps forward.

Helping You Navigate Life

Life can be challenging, especially for those facing unique hurdles such as masking, rejection sensitivity, and self-criticism. Many of my clients experience loneliness, frustration, or difficulty feeling understood in the world. Therapy offers a way to work through these challenges, uncover your strengths, and build a fulfilling, meaningful life that reflects who you truly are.

Creating Space for Your Journey

Therapy is an invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. It’s not about fixing who you are but about rediscovering the parts of you that may have been overlooked or hidden. Together, we’ll explore what it means to move from surviving to thriving—embracing your strengths, honouring your challenges, and cultivating self-compassion along the way. At your pace, we’ll work to build resilience and uncover a more authentic, empowered version of you.

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