Pridemind is user-supported. If you buy through a link on the site, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Learn More

Michelle Bentrup, PACFA

Experienced mental health professional

Provides online counseling through BetterHelp

At a glance

Michelle is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.

Offers Telehealth visits
Licensed in Australia

More about Michelle

  • 6 years' experience
  • Female
  • PACFA

My name is Michelle Bentrup, and I have spent the past twenty years working alongside people navigating some of life's most challenging experiences — substance use, mental health concerns, trauma, and the complex social circumstances that so often accompany them. My career has taken me from crisis support at the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre in Kings Cross, through community corrections and case management, to my current role as a Drug and Alcohol Clinician with NSW Health. Across every setting, my commitment has remained the same: to show up for people with honesty, without judgment, and with genuine belief in their capacity for change.

My education reflects the breadth of my clinical interests. I hold a Bachelor of Social Science (Counselling) and a Bachelor of Psychological Science, a Graduate Certificate in Adult and Vocational Education, and I am currently completing a Master of Psychological Practice. I am a Clinical Member of PACFA and have undertaken advanced training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Narrative Therapy, among others.

In my clinical work, I draw on a trauma-informed, recovery-oriented framework that places the person — not the problem — at the centre. I believe that lasting change comes from within, and my role is to create the conditions that make that possible: safety, curiosity, collaboration, and hope. I tailor my approach to each individual, integrating evidence-based modalities with a genuine therapeutic relationship built on trust and respect.

I think I can help by meeting you where you are. Whether you are taking your first steps toward change, navigating a setback, or simply trying to make sense of what you are experiencing, I will work alongside you at your pace, toward goals that matter to you.

Specialties

Stress Anxiety Addictions Self-esteem Depression Coping with life changes Abandonment Attachment issues Caregiver issues and stress Divorce and separation Forgiveness Guilt and shame Impulsivity Isolation / loneliness Life purpose Social anxiety and phobia Women's issues Workplace issues

Licenses

  • PACFA · Australia · 30608 · Renews June 2027

About online counseling

Affordable.
Pay a low flat fee.
Convenient.
Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
Available now.
There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.

Online counseling allows you to receive care from a mental health practitioner via phone, video chat, or instant messaging. It is convenient for those who may have trouble getting to or would prefer not to have in-person therapy appointments. Starting at $65 per week, online counseling is generally more affordable than in-person counseling. A study by researchers at University of California, Berkeley found that online counseling can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy while being more convenient, affordable, and accessible.

Reviews for Michelle Bentrup

Be the first to rate Michelle. How was your experience?

Frequently asked questions

Does Michelle Bentrup offer telehealth visits?

Yes. Michelle Bentrup works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.

What language(s) does Michelle Bentrup speak?

Michelle Bentrup speaks English.

How many years of experience does Michelle Bentrup have?

Michelle Bentrup has 6 years of experience.

Where is Michelle Bentrup licensed to practice?

Michelle Bentrup is licensed to practice in Australia.

Does Michelle Bentrup accept clients outside of Australia?

No, Michelle Bentrup does not accept clients outside of Australia.

Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."

How can I communicate with Michelle Bentrup?

Michelle Bentrup can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.

How do I get started with Michelle Bentrup?

Just tap the BOOK NOW button or tap here: A new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.

Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.

And recovery is possible.

Messaging
Live Chat
Phone
Video

When you tap BOOK NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.