About

Michelle Hoffman and Mara Dockendorf have been working together since 2014 and chose to go into practice together due to their passion for the field of psychology and their genuine care and compassion for others. They believe that given the space to feel heard and understood, people can live a more fulfilled and meaningful life. Outside of Growth & Wellness, they can be found spending time with friends and family.

Michelle and Mara are both culturally competent, inclusive therapists who provide culturally affirming and responsive client care for all individuals. We are dedicated to antiracist work, continued learning and growing, and dismantling systemic oppression in the mental health care field. We are dedicated to providing services to all identities.

Michelle Hoffman, LMFT

Co-Founder, MA, LMFT

She / Her / Hers

Life doesn’t always go as we had planned or hoped for and reaching out for support can be difficult, know that you’re not alone. It takes courage and vulnerability to take the first step. Whether you’re experiencing life stressors or your relationships are in need of rebuilding or healing, you’re in the right place.

Wherever you’re at in your healing or self-discovery journey, I will meet you there and provide a safe space where you will feel seen and heard. I am genuine, caring and warm in my approach and will work with you to create positive thinking patterns and identify barriers to living your best life.

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who began practicing in the field in 2013. I have experience working with adults, families, couples, children, and adolescents. I practice cultural humility and am LGBTQIA2S+ affirming.

Areas of specialty:

Anxiety
Depression
Neurodivergent individuals
Obsessive Compulsive Disorders
LGBTQIA2S+
Transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC)
Racial identity
Life transitions/stressors
Stress management
Relationship issues
Ageing and health
Family conflict
Premarital assessments (PREPARE/ENRICH)
Grief and Loss
Mindfulness
Self-esteem

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, being active outside, doing yoga, reading and doing puzzles.

Dr. Mara Dockendorf

Co-Founder, Psy. D., LP

She / Her / Hers

There are many challenges in life, and talking to someone about these challenges can be incredibly healing and rewarding. Whether you're struggling with painful emotions, distressing relationships, or significant life events, we can work together to explore and identify what you need to achieve your personal goals and improve your overall quality of life. I see you as the expert on yourself, and I would feel honored to help guide you on your path to healing.

In therapy, I like to create a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental environment. It's important to me that you feel heard, understood, and accepted for who you are. I enjoy working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I come from a place of cultural humility when doing so. I want to hear about your unique experiences and understand what they mean to you to help empower all parts of your identity. I believe that better understanding your emotions, listening to your body, living authentically, and having compassion for yourself and others are important parts of the healing process.

I'm a licensed psychologist who began practicing in 2014. I have experience working with adults, couples, children, and adolescents. I'm an EMDR-trained therapist, and I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced traumatic events.

Areas of specialty:

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
Veterans
Transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC)
LGBTQIA2S+
Racial identity
Grief and loss
Substance abuse
Relationship issues
Polyamory
Family conflict
Ageing and health
Life transitions/stressors
Stress management
Self-esteem
Mindfulness

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, trying out new recipes, reading, doing puzzles, and being outside. Recently, I have been outside a lot walking my pup.

I look forward to meeting you!

Carolyn Sporer, LMFT

MA, LMFT

She/Her/Hers

I am honored to support those on the lifelong journey of self-discovery. As a marriage and family therapist by training, I believe it is important to view individuals as part of a larger system that includes their family of origin, culture, and support/social network. You are the expert on your life and experiences. I engage with clients from a place of curiosity and hope. I also provide any relevant psychoeducation to you as needed. I also believe in the healing power of humor and connection. I am committed to racial and social justice, LGBTQIA2S affirming, and sex positive. I have been a practicing clinician since 2013 and have experience working with clients from toddlerhood to those who have a long life lived. I have extensive experience with supporting parenting and family dynamics.

Other areas of specialty include:

Anxiety
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Chronic health conditions
Couples/Relationships
Depression
Executive function support and education
Grief and Loss
Family therapy
Solution focused strategies
Stress Management
Women’s health and wellness

Outside of work I enjoy traveling, music, and I am an avid reader and podcast fanatic. I am also an adoring parent to a delightful tween son, and a sometimes-delightful miniature poodle.