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Michael J. Kalous

About

About Michael J. Kalous

Michael J. Kalous kneeling beside his dog, Tobias, near a Montana mountain stream

My Story

Having survived being born on a cold Montana morning in a car, overcoming abuse, abandonment, and neglect, I have gained great insight into myself, which has helped me learn, change, and grow into a man who cares deeply about others. I am passionate about the importance of stable, fulfilling, and connected relationships.

My personal journey of survival and healing became more than a story of my own restoration—it became a lifelong calling to help others discover hope and healing in their own stories. For more than 25 years, I have had the privilege of walking alongside individuals and families in my roles as a Family Health Advocate, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), and Christian Counselor. In 2015, I founded Sage Life Counseling (opens in a new tab) out of a desire to help others experience the same kind of transformation that has shaped my own life.

Whether guiding individuals through the healing of trauma, helping couples rebuild safety, trust, and communication, or supporting families in restoring connection, I draw on my clinical expertise, professional experience, and the wisdom gained through my own journey. I believe that healing is rooted in the restoration of relationships—with ourselves, with others, and with God. These connections are not merely part of a flourishing life; they are foundational to it. My passion is to help people move beyond surviving toward a life marked by healing, meaningful connection, renewed purpose, and hope.

My wife, Kari, and I have been working on ours for over 36 years. She has helped me immensely in understanding the mind and heart of a woman. We have raised four children and enjoy our life in Montana exploring back roads, camping, kayaking, and spending time with our friends and family.

TEDx Helena

The Building of Hope and Resilience in a Child

Michael's TEDx talk on how children survive hard beginnings, and what helps them grow into hope.

What I Offer

A guide for the road back to hope

Credentials
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Christian counselor, and founder of Sage Life Counseling. Also a poet and philosopher at heart.
Experience
More than 25 years of sitting with people and listening to their stories: the wreckage, and what can grow from it.
Approach
An elder at the gate: an experienced guide who has walked the road, not someone who claims to have all the answers.
Focus
Faith, relationships, healing from trauma, and spiritual growth.

Next steps

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Hope, healing, and practical tools for anyone overcoming trauma and rebuilding their relationships.

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