Michelle Marie Magri, LPC, LCPC, LMAC
Michelle Marie Magri, LPC, LCPC, LMAC is a licensed professional counselor with over a decade of experience in mental health care, specializing in trauma, PTSD, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. She has built her career on a foundation of individualized, patient-centered care, recognizing that every client’s journey is unique. Her therapeutic approach is eclectic and mindfulness-based, incorporating Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) along with a broad range of modalities tailored to the needs of adolescents and adults. Magri’s philosophy centers on collaboration: she guides clients as a supportive partner on their journey to healing, emphasizing self-awareness, empowerment, and resilience.
Magri’s professional journey began with a dual bachelor’s degree in psychology and criminology from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, followed by a master’s degree in counseling psychology. Early experiences in pre-medical studies and neurological research deepened her understanding of human development, while her own lived experiences with trauma and recovery inspired her commitment to holistic and mindful approaches to therapy. These experiences inform her practice, emphasizing the integration of cognitive, emotional, and energy-based strategies to foster long-term well-being.
In 2019, Magri launched her private practice, Building Bridges, with the vision of creating a safe, supportive, and flexible environment for clients. What began as a sole proprietorship has now expanded into an S-Corp with five therapists, allowing for broader access to care while maintaining the individualized attention that defines her work. She provides both in-person and virtual sessions, serving clients from age 13 and up, and she approaches each therapeutic relationship with the same dedication to rapport and collaboration that has become a hallmark of her practice.
Beyond clinical care, Magri is committed to advancing mental health services through mentorship and professional leadership. She is certified in EMDR and qualified to supervise other therapists, reflecting her dedication to the growth and development of the next generation of mental health professionals. Her work has been recognized in the field, including contributions to research with the MMPI-3 and being named a Woman of Power in 2020. Her practice philosophy emphasizes not only symptom management but also long-term healing, resilience, and personal empowerment.
Looking ahead, Magri’s vision extends to creating a comprehensive residential treatment center for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. She is currently leading Building Bridges through Phase 3 of a 10-phase expansion plan, with the ultimate goal of integrating outpatient programming, holistic treatments, and innovative approaches to mental health care. Through her clinical expertise, entrepreneurial drive, and patient-centered approach, Michelle Magri is redefining what integrated, compassionate mental health treatment can look like, offering clients both hope and a path to meaningful recovery.
• Master’s in Counseling Psychology, University of Missouri-Kansas City
• Bachelor’s in Psychology, University of Missouri-Kansas City
• Bachelor’s in Criminology, University of Missouri-Kansas City
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Missouri
• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Kansas
• Licensed Mental Health Addictions Counselor (LMAC)
• Certified in EMDR Therapy
• Qualified to supervise other therapists
• Named Woman of Power, 2020
• Member of honor societies Psy Chi and Alpha Phi Sigma
• Published in research involving MMPI-3
• Psy Chi (Honor Society in Psychology)
• Alpha Phi Sigma (Criminology Honor Society)
• Advocating for mental health and addiction awareness through Building Bridges
• Community-focused initiatives in trauma-informed care and holistic wellness
Research contributions on MMPI-3 published
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Substance Use Disorders and Addiction Recovery
- Co-occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
- Mindfulness-Based Therapy and Meditation
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Adolescents and Adults (ages 13+)
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
What I enjoy most about practicing is witnessing transformation. Helping clients navigate challenges, build resilience, and discover their own strength is incredibly rewarding. I love guiding people on their journey toward healing and self-discovery, and seeing them take ownership of their growth is the most fulfilling part of my work.