About

Michelle Montgomery, LCSW, RYT

LinkedIn

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 facilitating therapy I also 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
Designing trauma-informed protocols and behavioral health programs for agencies operating in high-velocity environments (EMS, Fire, Corrections).

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

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

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, 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