Hi There! My name is Michael. I have my master's in clinical psychology, focusing on marriage and family therapy LMFT. I did my internship at Glendale Adventis Hospital, dual diagnosis program. Just because I'm an expert in my field, does not make me an expert about you. You have lived a life experience that no one can teach about in a grad course. You will teach me much more than the classes I took. I take many CE units (I joined an unlimited program), read work related books just for fun, and truly enjoy my work and private life. I'm grateful for everything! Outside the office I have two adult children, love to water ski, play drums, race cars, and fix things.
When you schedule your first appointment, you might have several thoughts days prior your session. You might have some healthy anxiety. That's normal. I will make you feel at ease. I take OUR time slowly; allowing you to share your story/reason you are seeing me, and together, we will establish your goals, process pain and disappointment, etc. I am here for you this entire journey.
My life experience and education. My brother was mentally Ill, and all of my family of origin have passed on. I have learned to find the positive side of life. What one thinks about determines how they feel. I have lived a colorful life filled with the ups and downs of life, learning the lessons of acceptance and gratitude. Combined with my education, life experience, philosophy, psychology, and a strong spiritual belief, I offer you a balanced approach to therapy that's empathic, understanding, and collaborative.
I wrote mt thesis on CBT for my masters. I always use CBT as the focus of all therapy.
I've taken many trainings on attachment. I always use psychodynamic modality as tool box.
Again, attachment Is in my toolbox. A mix of all modalities are used by many therapists. People are dynamic, so is therapy.