Training and Speaking

Interative trainings on intensive dynamic therapies and mental health

Dirt road beside a sunflower field under cloudy sky, reflecting intensive dynamic therapy training. Image by Nikolett Emmert on Pexels.

Expert Trainings in Intensive Dynamic Psychotherapy & Clinician Development

Michelle’s trainings and talks are designed to enrich clinical thinking, skills, and the emotional capacities of mental health professionals, universities, practices, and organizations. Her unique approach includes the integration of real therapy session videos, which provides participants with an opportunity to observe the therapeutic process in action. This hands-on approach offers participants a deeper understanding of the therapeutic process and helps them apply these skills to their own practices.

In trainings, Michelle invites a consistent focus on the clinician’s relationship to learning new clinical material, which supports a deeper understanding of not only the new material, but the participant themselves. As a result, this method promotes rapid breakthroughs, increasing the emotional capacities and overall effectiveness and efficiency of their professional development in psychotherapy.

Michelle’s trainings are flexible and can be tailored to the needs of different groups, whether at private practices, healthcare facilities, academic institutions, or other organizations. Her expertise makes her an invaluable resource for anyone looking to enhance their approach to mental health treatment.

For more information on training and speaking engagements, and to discuss fees, reach out to Michelle today to see how she can contribute to your event or organization.

On-Going Trainings

Intensive Dynamic Psychotherapy (IDP) Training

Discover a powerful, experiential approach to therapy with this in-depth course on Intensive Dynamic Psychotherapy (IDP). Built on the foundations of ISTDP and designed to integrate seamlessly with approaches like IFS, CBT, and DBT, IDP helps clinicians work more effectively with unconscious processes, anxiety, and resistance.

Through interactive lectures, real case reviews, role plays, and video analysis, you’ll gain practical tools to deepen emotional work, strengthen the therapeutic relationship, and enhance your clinical impact. With a unique focus on both client and clinician self-awareness, this course offers a transformative learning experience for those ready to take their practice to the next level.

CEs: 36 CE Credits

Cost: $1440. Payment plans are available upon request.

Location: Zoom

Dates: September 9, 2025 - December 9, 2025

More Information: Click here

Pre-Core: Introduction to Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Therapy

This immersive three-day workshop introduces mental health professionals to Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). This training is not meant to create new ISTDP therapists. It is meant to help participants learn the core basics that can translate into most models of therapy. Through video examples and hands-on exercises, participants will learn to understand unconscious anxiety, identify defense mechanisms, and apply these insights in clinical practice to enhance your therapeutic skills and professional growth.

CEs: 16.5 CE credits

Cost: $700 for all three days

Location: Zoom

Next Training: TBD

Or by group request

More Information: Click here

Core Training in Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy at New Washington School of Psychiatry

Unlock the potential of Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), an evidence-based, attachment-focused therapy model that helps therapists improve their effectiveness with diverse patients. ISTDP teaches you to address defense mechanisms and anxiety, even in the most challenging cases, leading to a shorter, more cost-effective treatment outcomes.

Join one of the world’s longest-standing ISTDP programs and integrate this powerful approach with your personal strengths to elevate your practice.

This is an IEDTA-Certified Core Training.

Location: Zoom

Next Program Start: Fall 2025 (Full)

Apply Here: New Washington School of Psychiatry

Upcoming Conferences

Michelle M. May presenting at a conference, previewing upcoming speaking events. Image by Nicole Ballez.

Current date offerings: By group request

Where: Online

CE: 3 CEs offered

Sponsored by The Farley Center

Date: October 28, 2025

Time: 9 am - 12:15 pm ET (6 am - 9:15 pm PT)

Where: Online

CE: 3 CEs offered

“Michelle delivered an engaging and impactful training that really connected with our group of therapists. She was sharp, attentive to the participants' questions and reactions, and adjusted her approach in the moment to keep everyone engaged. Her ability to read the room and respond with clarity and insight made the session feel dynamic and relevant. Several attendees commented on how much they appreciated both the depth of knowledge and Michelle's approachable style. I would gladly recommend Michelle to any audience looking for both expertise and engagement!”

Chris Leibowitz, LCSW, CSAC – Owner/Therapist of Activv Counseling Center

“What a fascinating experience! When Michelle spoke, the room was completely captivated. Her insights deeply resonated and the conversation she sparked led to multiple rounds of heartfelt, thoughtful questions. It wasn’t just a talk. It was a rare and meaningful encounter that inspired enthusiastic interest in ISTDP and stayed with people long after.”

Deborah Lawton, LPC – Therapist and Senior Clinical Outreach Manager