Endorsements

I am humbled by the words of support from colleagues and satisfied clients.

"Michelle has spent her life dedicated to helping others . She has immersed herself in knowledge and experiences amongst different cultures and social economics. She has spent years working with youth and local veterans in overcoming barriers by focusing on giving them tools they need to be successful. A welcoming spirit that is well respected and rehearsed in guiding people of all ages and backgrounds on a path of internal peace."

Micki Leesch

Michelle has helped me learn how to bring myself out of dark places, gain confidence in my emotions, and enjoy my life to a greater extent. I truly believe in the services she provides as she knows how to actively listen while also making sessions feel like a conversation. I have and will always recommend Michelle to others searching for a counselor"

Anonymous Client

"I am thrilled to see Michelle enter the world of private practice. She is diverse in her work and has vast experience with Veteran's and preteen to college aged young adults due to her experience in educational settings. She also has experience with families. Michelle has a passion for working with people and it is evident in her smile and desire to connect. She has had a positive impact with individuals she has worked with always allowing for each to express themselves. She listens and provides guidance and resources for growth and change."

Kim Questad LPC-MH

"Michelle has earned my full trust. She makes me feel validated while also having the ability to validate from any persons side. She is incredibly understanding and able to feel and think the way I do. I believe the way that she shows empathy is a very safe feeling."

Anonymous Client

“Michelle gave me the support I needed during a particularly difficult period in my life. Her guidance and help greatly benefited my emotional health, mental health, and overall wellness. Today, I have the tools to be able to handle whatever life throws at me. She has extensive experience working with Veterans and is extremely military friendly. 10/10 highly recommend!”

Christian Hagen, USD Veterans Club officer and alumnus

"When I don’t know how to handle life, Michelle walks me through what’s going on and shows me what tools to try. I am understanding processes to work though everyday. I have been able to learn my worth." ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Anonymous Client

"Michelle’s work within JDC provides our youth practical opportunities to learn and practice new coping skills. Her play therapy centered approach fosters engagement and participation from youth naturally and allows her to connect with youth in new ways. Her care for our youth is evident and it is clear that they like and are engaged in her programs."

Nate Ellens, Assistant Director

Minnehaha County Regional Juvenile Detention Center

Michelle Pliska possesses incredible skill as a counselor, with the ability to counsel a multitude of issues. She embodies the disciplines of counseling with every client: respect for human dignity, autonomy, responsible caring, personal integrity, and social justice. I have no reservations in recommending Michelle Pliska as a mental health professional."

Marissa Waldner, School Counselor

"Michelle is one of the most empathetic and compassionate people I have ever met. She truly cares about others and has an intimate ability to connect with people, especially Veterans. Having witnessed her profound impact on the South Dakota Veteran community, I would recommend Michelle to anyone, but especially to those who have served. Her impact on my life is likely greater than she knows. You'll walk in client, you'll walk out a friend."

U.S. Air Force Veteran & USD Veterans Club Officer and Alumnus

"Thank you for being my daughters safe place to share her feelings as well as a transparent guide through these teenage years. My daughter looks forward to meeting with you and that is amazing! Thanks for all you do."

Parent of a Teenage Client

Michelle is the best counselor that I have ever had the opportunity to work with. She has the unique ability to connect with people regardless of their background, especially military veterans.

Navy Veteran and USD Alumnus

Michelle is an excellent counselor and advocate for teens and young people alike. She has extensive experience, knowledge, and training as both a mental health counselor and school counselor. She does well in building rapport and creating a space free of judgment where people are able to successfully work on themselves.

Breanne Mack, Student Advisor

“Michelle is a very genuine person, with so much empathy and understanding. Her ability to connect with others is very pure which makes her an exceptional counselor”

Elizabeth Callies , Minnehaha County State’s Attorney’s Office

Juvenile Diversion Coordinator

About Me

I grew up in Lennox, SD. After high school, I attended the University of South Dakota. I didn’t know what I wanted to be when I grew up, and I tried out several majors!

I settled on a Criminal Justice degree. After I got my Bachelors, I worked at the Minnehaha County Regional Juvenile Detention Center, providing direct supervision and social/emotional support to teens. I spent ten years doing this amazing, rewarding and challenging work.

I received my Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychology in Education from The University of South Dakota in 2005. Since then, I have worked in both educational and clinical mental health settings. I have counseled young people and teens, college students, and adults from the full spectrum of our South Dakota population.

I spent some rewarding time at USD as coordinator of the Student Veterans Resource Center. I created a military-friendly environment, connecting with students with military ties and providing resources to support their academic success and overall wellness.

What I Do When I’m Not Providing Supportive Counseling

I love to be outdoors. When I’m not in the office, I enjoy hiking, kayaking, and camping. I also love spending time exploring downtown Sioux Falls, and can’t wait to see the new artwork on the Sioux Falls Sculpture Walk or check out all the fabulous food.

But I think my favorite thing to do is travel. A few years ago, I started leading students on educational tours around the world. I have had the opportunity to not only see unique places but to see them through students’ eyes - amazing!

Although I have traveled the world some, my favorite place to be is SD. Whether it be the serenity and adventure of the Black Hills, the wonder of the Palisades, or the urban vibe of downtown Sioux Falls, I have 605 Pride!

Besides being a counselor, I am a friend, a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, a daughter-in-law, a sister-in-law, an auntie, a patriot, an outdoorswoman, a kayaker, and a lover of music, art, movies, travel, creativity, and life!

What I Love About Counseling

I love being part of the healing that people experience when they get excellent care.

I often incorporate creative expression: play therapy, music, and art, in treatment. These mediums assist in capturing the experiences when words are a challenge to find. Every single one of us has an inner child. Sometimes it needs a little TLC to find its voice and to light shine again.

It is a privilege and honor to walk alongside someone on their journey through life - giving the gift of being heard, unconditionally accepted, and authentically understood. I love celebrating the human experience and helping people heal.

Much of my work and life is driven by three core beliefs:

Be love.
"Be the change you wish to see in the world." ~ Mahatma Gandhi.
Be brave.

It takes courage to ask for help. I have so much respect for your decision to reach out, and I am dedicated to providing you with empowering treatment. Together we are stronger.

My Approach