As May shines a spotlight on Mental Health Awareness, Belle Haven is fortunate to be home to someone deeply committed to strengthening the emotional well-being of families across the community. Meet Dr. Michele Cole, Ph.D., LCSW, the founder of Moving Forward, PLC, a thriving therapy practice in Old Town built on the belief that mental health care should support not just individuals—but entire families.

Michele launched Moving Forward after recognizing a gap in comprehensive, family-centered therapy. Today, her practice on St. Asaph Street has grown to include 14 therapists, all working collaboratively to support children, adolescents, and adults through life’s challenges. The practice offers individual, couples, family, and group counseling, all grounded in evidence-based approaches.

At the core of their work is a Structural Family Systems perspective, which looks at how family dynamics—both present and past—shape individual experiences. “We look at each part of a person’s family, including their family of origin,” Michele explains. “Understanding those relationships is essential to healing and growth.”

Her message during Mental Health Awareness Month is simple but powerful: “Mental health is as important as physical health. They impact each other. When we don’t take care of our mental health, it affects every part of our lives.”

Through her work, Michele helps neighbors build stronger foundations—emotionally, relationally, and personally.

A DMV native, Michele grew up in North Arlington and has lived in Belle Haven since 2002, where she raised her three daughters. Her academic journey reflects her deep commitment to her field: she graduated cum laude from George Mason University with degrees in business administration and social work, and went on to earn both a Master’s and PhD in Clinical Social Work from The Catholic University of America.

Family remains central to Michele’s life. Her daughters—Katie, Mary, and Maggie—have each carved impressive paths of their own. Katie is an English teacher at Georgetown Visitation, Mary followed in her mother’s footsteps and is now a therapist at Moving Forward, and Maggie is set to graduate from Wake Forest Law School in May 2026. When they’re all together, you’ll often find them celebrating milestones at the Belle Haven Country Club, a cherished family tradition.

Michele is also deeply woven into the fabric of the neighborhood. A past Secretary, Vice President, and President of the Belle Haven Women’s Club, she continues to volunteer and support community initiatives. Whether attending a Mahjong fundraiser, enjoying a game of pickleball, or cheering on the beloved holiday parades around the circle, she values the strong sense of connection that defines Belle Haven.

And if you see a friendly French Bulldog named Ella, or perhaps Doug the mini Bernedoodle or Twiggy the Chiweenie strolling through the neighborhood, chances are you’ve spotted Michele or her daughters nearby.

Through both her professional work and community involvement, Michele embodies what it means to care for others—reminding us this month and always that taking care of our mental health is one of the most important investments we can make in ourselves and in each other.