Michelle Liva, AMFT
Phone: (860) 288-7221
Locations: Los Angeles
Michelle Liva is an Associate in Marriage and Family Therapy in California, with a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her experience includes 3 years of clinical work with couples and families in different stages of life and a multitude of presenting problems. Michelle is passionate about working with couples, and does so from a strengths-based and attachment-focused perspective.
“Very rarely is an argument truly about the dishes not getting washed. It’s that the dishes didn’t get washed, which means my partner doesn’t understand or value me, so eventually he or she will leave. How often do we actually acknowledge this process going on within us? If partners can make a concerted effort to be curious about the experience of the other and locate shared meaning within moments of conflict, marriage can represent what I believe to be the “prime directive” for all human beings: stable, safe, and ever-growing connection in love. In seeking out ways to fulfill our most fundamental need for attachment and connection, we become vulnerable and open ourselves up to the possibility of pain and loss. My best hope for marriage is helping couples create a relationship that has a high level of respect, trust, emotional safety and valuing of each other. I know couples therapy is working when partners are able to increase curiosity about this fear of loss and find connection by discussing it as a shared experience. I’m empathetic, validating, and want to help couples grow with each other. I’m able to bring levity when possible and hold hopefulness for your relationship, no matter what level of conflict you’ve been experiencing.”
Licensed, professional, therapists offering specialized couples counseling, individual therapy, and relationship wellness programs. We welcome ALL relationships!