At Endee Coaching Collective, we love spotlighting the incredible humans that make our neurodivergent-affirming coaching space what it is! We’ve carefully cultivated a team of thoughtful, affirming, highly skilled coaches, and we want you to get to know them, too.

Today we’re excited to introduce Michelle Cates, BA, a coach specializing in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) work support, Neurodivergent and I/DD Microenterprise Coaching, and small-business development. Additionally, as a certified NC benefits counselor, Michelle helps clients make informed choices about employment and long-term financial stability (benefits counseling available to North Carolina clients only).

If you are a neurodivergent entrepreneur - or dreaming of becoming one - Michelle can help you turn your ideas into a sustainable, meaningful business.

Read our interview with Michelle below!

Hi, I’m Michelle!

Michelle Cates, BA

I/DD and Neurodivergent
Microenterprise Job Coaching

Can you explain what a Microenterprise is?

A Microenterprise is a small business with usually 5 or less employees and started with minimal funds/capital.

Can you explain what your services look like?

It can be from the very basic support of brainstorming what Microenterprise would work for you to helping with your business plan to creating a pitch deck for Angel Investors. I can support every stage of development—from ideas that need support to make the jump, to businesses already running.

What's your sensory ick?

Sudden loud noises, certain crunchy foods (celery, water chestnuts, nuts), the way it feels when my fingernail runs across the seat belt…ahhh!

If you were your own client, what would you want to get out of coaching?

The confidence to trust myself, my decisions and ideas.

What's your favorite kind of fidget?

A smooth spinner or fidget ring.

Any special interests/current hyperfixations you want to share?

Wanting to play Rivals of Catan...even though I don't own it and have never played.

What's a sensory experience that you love?

Warm water or anything that gives off warmth.

Do you have some favorite vocal stims?

Do-be-do-be-do-do-do (oh)

-No More I Love You’s by Annie Lenox.

If you could share a few things about your brain with your younger self, what would you want to share?

Schedule changes are hard but you will learn to process through the anxiety. Math is hard not because you're dumb but because of how your brain processes numbers, calculations, and directions….having/asking for help is okay.

This or That: Sensory Edition

Gummy Candy or Chocolate Candy? Gummy 1000%

Over-the-Head Headphones or Earbuds in Your Ear? Over the head but really, just any headphones.

Smooth or Bumpy Fidgets? Bumpy

Slime or Playdough? Playdough

Scented Candles or Unscented Candles? Depends on the brand but probably scent.

We’re grateful to have Michelle on the Endee Coaching Collective team!

As both a Co-Founder of Endee and an experienced coordinated care professional, Michelle brings a rare combination of compassion, structure, humor, and real-world experience to her work.

Her approach centers neurodivergent empowerment, helping clients build confidence, advocate for themselves, navigate barriers, and create sustainable paths toward independence and success.

Interested in Microenterprise coaching or I/DD support? Book a session with Michelle and find support that feels right for you.

Book an Appointment with Michelle