About

Michelle Montgomery, LCSW, RYT

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My commitment to supporting emergency responders is rooted in over 20 years of high-acuity clinical experience. From serving as a social worker in a Level 1 Trauma Center to acting as the Lead Mental Health Consultant at the Multnomah County Detention Center, I have worked alongside police, firefighters, nurses, and crisis professionals in the most demanding environments.

My perspective on community resilience was first shaped in 2001, when I moved to New York City and witnessed the extraordinary solidarity that emerges during a national crisis. Later, my work in Portland, Oregon—navigating periods of heightened community tension and public health emergencies—further reinforced my belief that those who protect our communities deserve specialized, dedicated support. I am passionate about providing a space for first responders to process their own crises with someone who truly understands the culture and the stakes.

I currently provide both in person and virtual sessions in Eugene and Portland.

Strategic Clinical Advisory
In addition to clinical practice, I provide specialized consultation for emergency management organizations, law enforcement agencies, and healthcare systems. My work is situated at the intersection of operational efficiency and workforce resilience. In high-stress environments, leadership intention is the foundation of success.

I partner with leaders to define their impact: Are you refining your personal leadership style, or are you strategically developing a team for long-term operational excellence?

Consultations are available in-person in Portland and Eugene, or virtually.

Service Areas
Program Development: Designing trauma-informed protocols and behavioral health programs tailored for high-velocity environments (EMS, Fire, Corrections).

Tactical Training: Developing and facilitating specialized training for responders, including mental health literacy, de-escalation techniques, and tactical resilience.

Leadership Strategy: Strategic advising for executive leadership on managing secondary trauma, burnout, and organizational wellness during prolonged deployments and or critical incidences.

Operational Integration: Consulting on the seamless implementation of behavioral health strategies within existing NIMS and ICS structures.

Education

Master’s in Social Work / Law Minor, Columbia University in the City of New York

RYT – Registered Yoga Teacher, Yoga Alliance, Firelight Yoga Teachers Training, Summer 2021 

Licensed in the State of Oregon, LCSW #L11656

ASAP (Acute Stress Adaptive Protocol) Peer Support Training, Salem Oregon, Dr. Stephanie M. Conn.

EMDR Basic Training, July & October 2025, Susan Wendelborg, LCSW