Meet the Therapist

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

Discovering my own neurodivergence later in life reshaped my understanding of self-acceptance, resilience, and the need for compassionate support. This journey informs my work with clients—especially those exploring their neurodivergent identities, including ADHD, autism, and AuDHD—who seek to live authentically and connect with their true selves.

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

My journey as a therapist began with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from the University of Toronto, followed by a calling toward social work. This led me to complete my Bachelor of Social Work from Dalhousie University in 2014 and my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Windsor in 2018. Since becoming a Registered Social Worker in 2015, I have worked extensively in inpatient and community mental health settings. My experience includes developing mental health programs, leading individual and group therapy, and supporting clients in building resilience and personal growth. My therapeutic approach combines empathy, professional expertise, and lived experience, creating a supportive environment focused on growth and healing.

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.

Living with Neurodivergence: Navigating Life in Two Worlds

Living with a late-diagnosed or self-diagnosed neurodivergence can often feel like walking in two worlds—striving to fit within neurotypical expectations while experiencing a unique, internal reality that’s often misunderstood. Many clients come to me feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or unsupported by traditional therapeutic models. Becoming Yourself Counseling is designed to bridge this gap, providing a space that is neuro-affirming and values your neurodivergent experience to support you in building a meaningful life.

Helping You Navigate Life

Life can be challenging, especially for neurodivergent and gifted individuals facing unique hurdles such as masking, rejection sensitivity, and self-doubt. Many of my clients experience loneliness, frustration, or difficulty feeling understood in a neurotypical 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.

Let’s Begin Your Journey

Therapy is a journey of becoming—from surviving to thriving, from self-criticism to self-compassion. It’s about building resilience, embracing your strengths, and connecting with your authentic self. We’ll explore what it means to be yourself, find strategies to overcome life’s obstacles and foster a more empowered sense of self-understanding, compassion and acceptance.

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