About Micaela

Psychodynamic and Existential Therapist in Austin TX

One of the greatest honors of my life has been the opportunity to be a trusted confidant through my profession as a therapist. I have learned from and been mentored by other therapists who deeply value the art of knowing and understanding others while building my career in Austin, TX.

My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and driven by curiosity. I am drawn to the big and small questions of life. I know that life can be complicated and hard to make sense of - I am intrigued by the complexity of the human experience and hold great respect for the opportunity to support my clients through their journey. Everyone is on their own path and my hope is to support my clients with gaining clarity on what will truly give their lives meaning. That might look like an adjustment in trajectory or perspective - perhaps simply an acceptance of what is.

I have a strong belief that the more you bring of yourself into the therapy space, the more profound our work can be. I take a non-pathologizing approach to therapy grounded in psychodynamic and existential traditions. You are more than your challenges - many defenses or problem behaviors were or are attempts to deal with or survive difficult situations. You might be aware of these already or looking for an outsider's perspective - in any case, you are not "wrong" or "bad" for not having the tools to do better. If there is something you want to change, we can work on identifying what will help you feel more in harmony with yourself and make the most sense for your life.

My specialization is in supporting people through the individuation process. This work is especially meaningful for adults navigating identity questions, relational challenges, and life transitions. We are all heavily influenced by our early life experiences - the culture we grow up in, our caregivers, and impactful moments along the way. Along the way, we may split off from parts of ourselves, leave things behind, or adopt certain ways of being to get by and be accepted. In this work, I support people with finding their way back to wholeness and find ways of being that feel more congruent with their true selves. I believe that when you are able to truly know yourself, you can become more intentional about your choices in life and the way you show up in your relationships.

  • Bachelors of Science Degree - Major in Applied Psychology and Minor in Anthropology

    New York University, Class of 2016

    Masters of Science in Social Work

    University of Texas at Austin, Class of 2019

  • Gottman Couples Therapy Trained

    Gottman Couples training Level 1 and 2 through The Gottman Institute - February 2022

    Maternal Mental Health Certificate

    Postpartum Support International - December 2022

    EMDR Trained

    Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Trained with Dr. Christie Sprowls - October 2023

    Professional Certification in Psychoanalytic Social Work Practice

    University of Texas at Austin - Texas Institute for Child & Family Wellbeing - May 2025