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

Strategic Clinical Advisory
I provide specialized consultation for emergency management organizations, law enforcement agencies, and healthcare systems. My work focuses on the intersection of operational efficiency and workforce resilience in high-stress environments.

Consultations are available both in-person and virtually.

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

Curriculum Design: Developing and facilitating training for responders, including mental health literacy, de-escalation, and tactical resilience.

Operational Resilience: Strategic advising for leadership on managing secondary trauma, burnout, and organizational wellness during prolonged deployments.

Crisis Systems Integration: Consulting on the 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 

Licensed in the State of Oregon, LCSW #L11656