Michelle Ehlers

Position/Program: CRM II(F), PWS, CADC-R, QMHA-R/ Peer Support Team and Dragonfly Program

Pronouns: She/Her

Pets: 1 dog (Rascal), 2 cats, (Cry Baby & Spaz)

3 Favorite Things: Jet skiing, Quads in the mud, and concerts.

Something I Like to Do Outside of Work: Hanging out with my kids & remembering how blessed I am. (They are amazing humans)

For personal growth and my personal recovery, I engage in outdoor activities, continue professional development in behavioral health and forensic peer support, and spend time building meaningful connections with the recovery community.

Something Interesting About Me: I obtained my PWS credentials allowing me to become a Traditional Health Worker as well as also being the only woman so far to achieve a bachelor's degree through Portland State University, while at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility.

I have also seen Korn 11 times and love metal music. My son and I now use concerts to heal and bond together.

Why I Do What I Do: I utilize both professional training and lived experience to bridge gaps between systems such as behavioral health, DHS, and the justice system, helping individuals navigate complex barriers with practical and strength-based approaches. I am committed to this work because I understand the impact of isolation, system involvement, and barriers to stability. I use my lived experience to instill hope, promote self-determination, and support individuals in building sustainable recovery and successful reentry outcomes.