Meet Michelle Drago
MSW, LCSW
Supporting Children, Teenagers, and Adults in North Carolina
I believe that everyone deserves access to wellness
In our sessions together, I show up with the conviction that you have the strength to make meaningful changes in your life. I will work collaboratively with you to make sure you feel heard, seen, validated and safe.
I welcome you exactly as you are, without judgment or criticism. You will feel supported and empowered to grow and heal as we reach and surpass your goals.
Your healing is important, and I will help you get there.
Hi, I’m Michelle
My goal is to offer you a safe space, separate from the chaos of your life, where you can be your authentic self without fear of judgment.
Through creativity, compassion, and fun, I will help you navigate the challenges you’re facing. Together, we’ll begin to change the unhelpful thinking patterns and develop new ways of managing problems that arise. I believe in meeting you where you are. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy; our work together will be tailored to what you need and the goals you want to achieve.
Meet Maple Spice, Michelle’s Certified Therapy Dog
Maple Spice is a Certified Therapy Dog through Four Paws & Wake Up – NC Canine Services, and together we form an Animal-Assisted Therapy team. In our sessions, Maple helps support the therapeutic process by offering comfort, connection, and calm through intentional human–animal interaction.
Full of playful energy, Maple is often seen zooming around the office with her favorite toys or waiting eagerly at her office gate to greet her next client. When she’s not working, she loves playing with her dog friends, taking naps with mom, and going on errands—especially when they include a stop at her favorite dog stores. Maple has a gift for knowing when someone needs a gentle nudge, a warm cuddle, or a joyful distraction, and she brings that presence into every session.
A Tribute to Roxy
Before Maple came along, my work began with Roxy — my first therapy dog, the heart of Embark, and the inspiration for all we do. Roxy had a calm, nurturing spirit and loved cozy naps under her favorite blanket. She helped countless clients feel safe, understood, and less alone. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy lives on in every therapy session and in the comfort Maple now brings. Roxy will always be remembered as Embark Counseling’s original four-legged partner in healing..
My Approach
In our sessions together, we will work collaboratively as we focus on what has led you to seek therapy and the goals you want to achieve. My approach is tailored to each client and their unique challenges. I utilize therapeutic techniques including CBT, EMDR & Trauma-Focused CBT while also integrating other techniques, including behavioral modification, solution-focused strategies, art therapy, mindfulness, & parenting support.
Beyond my support in session, you’ll also receive the support Maple Spice, my trusted co-therapist. Trained to provide Animal Assisted Therapy, Maple Spice will be your companion in sessions. She will sit with you, providing comfort and quiet support. She is known for helping to decrease feelings of stress.
Education & Credentials
NC LCSW License #: C012652
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology: West Virginia University
Master of Social Work: Boston University
TF-CBT & EMDR-trained