Michelle Obama Discusses Therapy’s Impact on Her Current Life Journey

Former US First Lady Michelle Obama is embracing therapy as a key part of her personal growth journey.

In a heartfelt conversation on On Purpose with Jay Shetty, joined by her brother Craig Robinson and their co-hosts from the IMO podcast, Obama shared that she’s currently in therapy as she navigates a major life transition. “At this phase of my life, I’m in therapy right now because I’m transitioning,” she said.

Obama reflected on the emotional toll of maintaining a stable family life under intense public scrutiny. Having spent nearly 20 years with her family in the spotlight — from the campaign trail to the White House and beyond — she’s now adjusting to a new reality where she can prioritize herself. “I’m an empty nester, my girls are in…you know, they’ve been launched,” she explained. “Every choice that I’m making is completely mine.” Without the usual responsibilities to her children, husband, or even the nation, she’s using therapy to unpack past guilt, examine long-held habits, and explore how her relationship with her late mother, Marian Robinson, has shaped her outlook.

Calling therapy a form of “coaching,” Obama stressed that she’s always been an advocate for mental health. “Let me get some help,” she said. “Let me unwind some old habits… because I believe this is a whole other phase in life for me.” As she grieves the loss of her mother, who passed away in May 2024 at the age of 86, Obama sees this moment as an opportunity to reset and prepare for the next chapter.