Michelle Erford, LCSW, LISW

Michelle Erford, LCSW, LISW

Psychotherapist
OH
Welcome! I'm Michelle - a mom, social worker, advocate; among other identities. I'm glad you're here. I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is at the heart of meaningful change. As your therapist, I’m truly rooting for you. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and supported — while also helping you build new tools, skills, and perspectives to move toward the change you’ve been wanting. I specialize in working with women and birthing individuals navigating anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, postpartum depression and mood changes, infertility and trying to conceive, grief and loss related to miscarriage or stillbirth, and the many adjustments that come with becoming a parent. I especially love supporting new moms as they step into this new identity — exploring how motherhood fits alongside all the other incredible parts of who they already are. Having navigated my own challenging pregnancy and postpartum experiences, I understand firsthand how tender and overwhelming this season can feel. You don’t have to carry it alone. Together, we’ll make space for the hard parts, honor your strengths, and help you feel more grounded and confident in yourself.
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About Michelle Erford

Focus areas

Adjustment Disorder
Postpartum Anxiety
Perinatal Loss
Women's Mental Health Issues
Perinatal Mental Health

Clientele seen

Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Individuals

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Compassion Focused
Clinical Supervision and Licensed Supervisors
Culturally Sensitive
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Dialectical (DBT)

Identity

Gender

Female

Ethnicity

White

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Getting to know Michelle Erford

Welcome! I'm Michelle - a mom, social worker, advocate; among other identities. I'm glad you're here. I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is at the heart of meaningful change. As your therapist, I’m truly rooting for you. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and supported — while also helping you build new tools, skills, and perspectives to move toward the change you’ve been wanting. I specialize in working with women and birthing individuals navigating anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, postpartum depression and mood changes, infertility and trying to conceive, grief and loss related to miscarriage or stillbirth, and the many adjustments that come with becoming a parent. I especially love supporting new moms as they step into this new identity — exploring how motherhood fits alongside all the other incredible parts of who they already are. Having navigated my own challenging pregnancy and postpartum experiences, I understand firsthand how tender and overwhelming this season can feel. You don’t have to carry it alone. Together, we’ll make space for the hard parts, honor your strengths, and help you feel more grounded and confident in yourself.

What should a new client know about working with you?

My approach to therapy is client-centered, collaborative, and empowering. I believe the relationship we build together is the foundation for meaningful growth and lasting change. When you feel safe and supported, it becomes easier to explore new perspectives, develop practical tools, and move toward the life you want. While we’ll address the specific symptoms bringing you in, I also consider the bigger picture — how your relationships, environment, and the larger systems around you impact your well-being. Each client’s experience is unique, so I tailor our work to your individual strengths, goals, and needs. I often incorporate elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based approaches to provide tangible skills and deeper insight into thought and behavior patterns. My goal is to help you not only understand what you’re experiencing, but feel empowered with tools you can use in everyday life.

What is your typical process for working with clients?

Clients can expect to take away a sense of support, clarity, and practical tools they can use in their daily lives. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to help us get to know each other and ensure we’re a good fit before beginning our work together. In our first few sessions, I focus on building rapport and learning more about your strengths, challenges, and hopes for the future. Together, we’ll create meaningful goals and explore interventions that align with your unique needs and vision for change. Most importantly, I aim to provide a safe, validating space where you feel empowered to try new skills, shift perspectives, and move toward improved mental well-being.

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In-network insurances

Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
100+ more in-network plans

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It’s common for mental health providers to be out-of-network. Many insurance plans offer out-of-network coverage, so you may get partially reimbursed. Learn more

Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
Initial session: $125 for 50 minutes
Ongoing session: $125 for 50 minutes
  • Sliding scale: Offers lower out-of-pocket fees on an individual basis, typically based on your ability to pay

More information on payments and coverage

I am currently in-network with a variety of insurance plans. I also offer a private pay option - this means you pay for sessions directly rather than going through insurance. Many clients appreciate this option because it gives them more privacy and flexibility in their care. If your insurance includes out-of-network benefits, we can provide a receipt (often called a “superbill”) for you to submit for possible reimbursement. Pay What You Can I reserve a limited number of spots for clients who are uninsured or experiencing financial strain. These sessions are offered on a pay-what-you-can basis to help make therapy more accessible.

Popular visit reasons

Anxiety Disorder
Depression
New Patient Visit
Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit
Therapy
Women's Mental Health Issues
Anxiety Disorder
Depression
New Patient Visit
Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)

Education and background

Practice names

Education and training

  • New York University, Master's in Social Work

NPI number

1245996313

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Michelle Erford?

Generally, Michelle Erford has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Michelle Erford's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is Michelle Erford accepting new patients?

Michelle Erford generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Michelle Erford's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does Michelle Erford accept my insurance?

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Can I make an appointment with Michelle Erford online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with Michelle Erford using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does Michelle Erford work with?

What are common reasons for patients to see Michelle Erford?

Michelle Erford frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Michelle Erford on their profile.

What languages does Michelle Erford speak?

Michelle Erford speaks English and Spanish.

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