LotusLab is a heart-centered community of psychotherapists embarking on a journey of self-discovery, connection, and growth — together. Rooted in mindfulness and self-inquiry, LotusLab is a place where therapists can replenish their spirits, expand their horizons, and cultivate joy in their personal and professional lives.
We are professional therapists who are willing to share and be vulnerable, interested in our own growth and struggles, and generous with our attention to others. Our community encompasses a diverse age range and expertise that shares a common interest in and openness to the wisdom, ideas, and practices of Buddhism and relational Gestalt. We’re passionate about being good therapists and honoring our profession by doing our own inner work. At LotusLab, authenticity, kindness, and curiosity are at the heart of everything we do.
LotusLab is a space where therapists can engage deeply with mental health ideas that have a pragmatic edge—ideas that challenge us, inspire us, and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. We explore the intersections of philosophy, psychology, science, spirituality, beauty, and creativity, weaving together varied perspectives to enrich our practice and embolden our lives.
LotusLab stands out for its commitment to holistic well-being, authentic connection, and ongoing growth.
"Michelle offers a group experience that meets the direct needs of therapists by creating a space which explores mindfulness practices; the art and challenges of living; and community support among like minded peers. It's low pressure but also deep and thoughtful—a gentle yet still stimulating source of support for therapists. I leave feeling centered and supported as a person and therapist." -- Lindsay S, LMFT
• Soulful Practices: Morning meditation and self-inquiry support to ground ourselves in the present moment, foster self-awareness, and nurture our inner wisdom.
• Inspiring Connections: Connect with fellow practitioners who share your passion for growth, compassion, and authenticity. Our community provides a safe space for meaningful dialogue, mutual support, and collective learning.
• Holistic Well-Being: Prioritize your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being with fresh practices, resources, and events designed to nourish your mind, body, and soul.
• Live Group Sessions: Join us for weekly live sessions online where you’ll engage in guided meditations, reflective writing, and meaningful discussions with fellow members. (Meditations and Writing Prompts are recorded if you can’t make live sessions or want to deepen into the practice for future reference, we are a FOMO-Free community!).
• Interactive Learning: Dive deep into topics that matter to you like love, heartbreak, grief, regret, self-worth, liminal space, power, eros, and joy. Explore old and new ideas, and discover practical strategies for enhancing your practice and enriching your life.
• Supportive Community: Experience the power of community as you connect with like-hearted colleagues, share insights, and receive support on your journey of self-discovery and growth.
"What a meaningful and connecting hour to practice presence in community! This time invites me to ground, to sit with polarities, to extend curiosity and grace to myself, and to practice vulnerability within a gentle and wise community." --Kate, LMFT
As a member of LotusLab, you’ll have the option to join us for weekly online sessions where we engage in guided meditation, reflective writing, and discussions. Michelle will lead us in short guided practices and offer thought-provoking ideas and stories to spark our morning inquiries. We’ll have time to journal, share insights, and support each other’s growth in a safe and confidential space. There is an online forum, with 24/7 access to writing prompts, inquiries, inspiration, and meditation recordings updated weekly should you choose to go on the journey at your own pace and schedule.
"I'm rekindling my meditation practice and I appreciate LotusLab offers a quiet pace to slow me down; it helps me sit with uncertainty, and I enjoy learning from the thoughtful participants." --A.L., LMFT
LotusLab is even more than a community—it’s a catalyst for personal and professional transformation. Through mindfulness practice, storytelling, and shared inquiry, we navigate the complexities of life and work with courage, compassion, and authenticity. Our group’s name reflects our commitment to growth and experimentation—like the lotus flower rising from the mud, we embrace the messiness of life as a necessary condition for growth and renewal.
"For me, the Lotus Lab gives me the grace and space to look at things from a new angle. Michelle shares stories and writings around a central idea and I always walk away with deeper understanding and more compassion for myself and others. It’s a sweet moment, and I appreciate the honesty, kindness , and humility from all those that join."--JS
Michelle is a licensed therapist and accomplished teacher of gestalt and meditation who has trained and supervised licensed therapists and associates across the United States and internationally. She has served on the core faculty at the Pacific Gestalt Institute for over a decade and is a contributing author to the academic anthology, The Relational Heart of Gestalt Therapy (Routledge 2022).
Michelle has developed techniques that integrate gestalt theory and somatic practices with Buddhist psychology and mindfulness for a mind-body-spirit approach to therapy. She has taught Mindful Self-Compassion programs privately and with InsightLA Meditation. She is president emeritus of the Gestalt Therapy Institute of Los Angeles (GTILA), where she also served on the executive board for eight years. Michelle’s background and passion for mindfulness and self-compassion shine through in every aspect of LotusLab.
As a member of LotusLab, you’ll enjoy 24/7 access to a wealth of resources and opportunities for personal and professional development, including::
You have dedicated your career to helping others. It would be my great joy to see you thrive with the tremendous support waiting for you right now in the LotusLab. If you’re ready to nourish your soul, expand your horizons, deepen your mindfulness practice, and connect with a supportive community of therapists, I invite you to join LotusLab today. Let your heart and mud be part of our magic as we journey towards greater presence, compassion, and joy — together.
With warmth and care always,
Michelle