Meet Michelle Ritenour, LMFT, and Owner of Ritenour Counseling in San Ramon, CA

LMFT & Owner of Ritenour Counseling

Hi, I’m Michelle.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in San Ramon since 2008. 

I was born and raised in the East Bay (San Ramon was known as “San Remote” when I was growing up!), and I am currently raising my own children in our evolving community.  

Prior to becoming a therapist, I spent 10 years as an elementary school teacher and have experience in our local school district. But the study of psychology has always been a passion of mine, which led me to a second career as a therapist.

My training centered on Family Systems and child/adolescent therapy, and my focus is on helping you understand how to relate and connect with yourself, your family members, and peers. My approach is warm and empathic, and I work to help you develop strong, healthy attachments with others.  

Much of my work focuses on helping teens and young adults who are feeling stuck take a step forward. When you experience the success of one step forward first-hand, you will gain a newfound awareness and confidence to face other challenges in life.

As your therapist, I bring my friendly and approachable personality to our sessions. I seek to understand your unique experiences and I strive to create a safe space where you feel comfortable expressing yourself.

I believe in infusing our sessions with humor and lightheartedness, fostering a positive and uplifting atmosphere. I am also committed to being direct when necessary, ensuring we address your challenges and work towards meaningful change together.

I am excited to meet you. Thank you for allowing me the privilege to journey toward healing with you.

Michelle

TRAINING & EDUCATION

I’m committed to ongoing education & training to best support you and your family.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #51357

Education

Masters (M.A.) in Counseling Psychology, John F. Kennedy University, Pleasant Hill, CA

Masters (M.A.) in Education University of California, Berkeley

Bachelor’s of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology with a minor in Educational Studies
University of California, Los Angeles

Training/Volunteer Work

Mental Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA | John F. Kennedy University Community Counseling Center, Concord, CA | Chinatown Child Development Center, San Francisco, CA

Professional Affiliations

  • California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

  • American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

  • East Bay Association of Marriage and Family Therapists

  • Asian American Psychological Association

  • Early Mental Health Initiative

  • Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional