Testimonials

Below are testimonials from current and past clients who transformed their lives through their work with Michael. Whether spiritual direction, shadow work, dreamwork, Tarot, breathwork, or a combonation of it all, these clients found healing, clarity, accessed suppressed life-energy, and embraced transformation. Scroll to watch/listen to their genuine reflections.
Duncan, 29 (Virginia)
"What I appreciate most in my conversations with Michael is that I never feel like there's something to fix. He brings thoughtful, generous, calm questions. I've tried therapy in the past and it felt clinical. Whereas, the things I want to talk about when it comes to like spirituality, relationships, love, they're messy and complicated ideas. Michael is able to facilitate a conversation where I feel like I am in charge of the conversation, but I'm also feeling a sense of progress because he knows what questions to ask. And I recommend him to everyone. Anyone who mentions therapy, I say, hey, if you heard of shadow work, and I have this guy, his name's Michael, who you might want to reach out to and talk with. if you're thinking about reaching out, I highly recommend it.
LJ, 68 (Puget Sound, WA)
I first learned about Michael Simmons and his work with shadow and dream analysis through my contemplative meditation community. As I learned more about shadow work, and the Jungian framework for understanding the unconscious, I realized I had a “locked vault” within me that needed to open. Through Michael’s perceptive insights, his gentle nudges and his gift for focused and compassionate listening, I have began opening up this vault and peer in. It turns out, there are some hidden gems in there! This exploration with Michael has widened my spiritual path to now include a psychological dimension and my life is richer and deeper as a result.
Ingrid, 34 (Virginia)
After my first Zoom session with Michael, I breathed a huge sigh of relief and thought, “I’m going to be okay. I’m going to find help here.” Traditional talk therapy sessions had helped me work through some of my deep fears and mental blocks towards motherhood and femininity. However, I found myself craving a more nuanced spiritual and psychological framework than what traditional therapy provided. I wanted new questions and refreshed perspectives. Turns out, I actually wanted shadow work! My husband was benefitting from his own shadow work sessions with Michael, so I decided to give it a go myself. Working with Michael these past few months has marked a turning point in my motherhood/identity journey. Michael is deeply skilled in the craft of coaching—his professionalism provides a safe, non-judgmental space for sharing, while his warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine care for his clients infuses every question he asks, metaphor he shares, and resource he offers. He listens with gracious attentiveness, never rushes, and isn’t afraid to witness ugly crying. Thank you, Michael, for all the beautiful new words and mental models. I feel like I’m continually upgrading my ability to process my own life. What a gift!


Karen (Oregon)
"I first met Michael through his online classes. They were so helpful that I started monthly spiritual direction meetings. Michael provided the tools I needed to identify and process some emotions and false beliefs that were draining my energy and causing harm to my relationships. He was completely accepting and I never felt embarrassed or afraid of expressing things to him. I am definitely a healthier, more joyful person than I was before working with Michael."
Heather (Barbados)
"I have benefited tremendously from the shadow work with Michael over the course of the past 14 months. I participated in a shadow work workshop with him and was intrigued to understand more. Working individually set me on a journey to recognize and examine my shadow (or the parts of myself I was ashamed of/found unacceptable). I now understand that healing comes not by denying or pushing down what I don't like, but rather through the practice of “integrating the negative. Michael’s virtual space, expertise, tender listening and insightful questions enabled me to become more curious about looking behind my internal walls to see the origin of my unique patterns of behavior, fears, and sense of unworthiness. As a result, I am in the ongoing process of creating a new relationship with my shadow and with the Divine, which allows me to be more fully present."


HC, 68 (Fresno, CA)
"Sessions are alive with “Aha” moments and the relief of understanding. He can hold the space in session for feelings, thoughts, inquiry, and beliefs as they unfold. He does this with kindness, care, and loving acceptance, while simultaneously allowing space for growing in my own understanding. Since working with Michael I've gained greater connection and acceptance of my intuition of my needs. I feel can obtain my needs from my environment and bravely express them. His use with imagery and visualizations have assisted me the most in reconnecting to my deepest intuitive self. Also, I was thrilled to know Michael utilized Tarot card readings in session. Having that element helped me see and explore wider possibilities and potentials in my shadow. I experience an energetic frequency of Gratitude at the end of every session."
Daniel, (Australia)
"I was referred to Michael by a prominent psychotherapist and author during a pivotal moment in my midlife—a time when previously unspoken parts of myself were suddenly finding a voice. It was a fairly turbulent period for me, trying to navigate conflicting values, desires, and a wave of emotional responses. Something beautiful was emerging in my life, but it was all a little blurry, and my inner conflicts made it quite confusing at times. Having also led spiritual communities, Michael immediately understood the nuances of my situation. Our conversations have been invaluable—he has provided a space where I’ve gained clarity about what is unfolding within me and what I truly want. His integration of spiritual and psychological insights, along with dream work, has deepened my self-understanding and left me feeling empowered and encouraged. As I continue on this journey, I feel clearer, more intentional, and deeply grateful for the guidance I’ve received. He is a great gift to the world!"
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