Michele Vigil, LMFT, joined A Home Within's Building Practice in Community (BPIC) program in 2024 as a volunteer therapist. As a former foster youth herself, she serves from a place of understanding and compassion.
Volunteers / Michele Vigil, LMFT
Becoming a therapist was something I once thought was out of reach for someone like me, a former foster youth. Joining A Home Within became a full circle moment, giving me the chance to serve a community I feel deeply connected to and hold close to my heart.
What's a fun fact about you?
Michele: My long lost secret sister was given up for adoption and found me 44 years later. But wait - there's more! We have the same first name! I've nicknamed her M2 because she's younger than me AND spells her name with two L's!
Why did you decide to join A Home Within?
Michele: Becoming a therapist was something I once thought was out of reach for someone like me, a former foster youth. Joining A Home Within became a full circle moment, giving me the chance to serve a community I feel deeply connected to and hold close to my heart. I couldn’t sign up fast enough!
How has your work with A Home Within impacted you personally, professionally, or otherwise?
Michele: Personally, it’s deepened my sense of purpose and connection and constantly reminds me of the incredible resilience we all carry—even when we don’t see it in ourselves. Professionally, it’s taught me to navigate the complexities of trauma and healing with greater insight and care. I think what's impacted me most about AHW is how they somehow infuse care, comfort, and JOY into everything they do - it’s infectious and it's the bar I want to hold myself to.
What would you say to someone considering volunteering with A Home Within?
Michele: The only regret you will have is if, or when, you have to say goodbye.
Thank you so much, Michele, for the many ways you contribute to the A Home Within community!
At a Glance
A Home Within’s community includes nearly 500 therapists in 20 chapters across 10 states.
Dozens of free consultation groups and continuing education events are offered each year.
This year, over 150 therapists nationwide became volunteers, leading to a 25% increase in our network!