My name is Mike, and I am a fully licensed psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals excel in their personal lives, relationships, and professions. As a therapist, I am passionate about guiding others through the complex range of emotions that are part of the human experience. Often, these challenges arise unexpectedly, leaving behind fragments to piece together. That’s why my practice is grounded in compassion, validation, and providing a safe haven for healing and growth. I firmly believe that no one is meant to simply “move on”; rather, my goal is to support clients through life’s trials, helping them recognize their inherent worth, develop healthy coping strategies, and regain confidence as they transition from surviving to truly thriving. In my virtual practice, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse clientele since its inception. This includes couples and individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, and everyday challenges. I also have extensive experience working with veterans from the armed services and first responders. Drawing from my own 20+ years as a volunteer first responder, I understand the mental strains, post-traumatic stress, and lasting effects of traumatic events that many of these individuals face. In such cases, I employ a thoughtful blend of multicultural, psychoanalytic, and behavioral therapies to help clients assess their current situation, envision their desired future, and chart actionable steps toward it—all within a secure, validating, and non-judgmental environment. I eagerly anticipate our meeting and the opportunity to understand you better, guiding you towards a more fulfilling life journey.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
What occurs during those initial days? In our first session, we'll establish a foundation of familiarity and mutual understanding. Through open dialogue and attentive listening, we'll delve into your current situation, pinpoint your objectives, and address any obstacles hindering your progress. Together, we will craft a personalized roadmap tailored to your unique needs, guiding you toward achieving what truly matters to you. If it holds significance for you, rest assured, it holds significance for me as well.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Here’s my rap sheet: I’ve been in the psychotherapy field for about 15 years now; I got my start working with sexual assault victims. Before that I was a first responder for 25 years (EMS and volunteer fire). So, it naturally followed for me to specialize in working with first responders as well as trauma victims, and that’s where I am now. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both the Commonwealth of Virginia and the State of New Jersey. I am also a Board Certified NCC (National Certified Counselor) and an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Nice to meet you!
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
Currently I am focused on trauma work, depression, anxiety, and doing couples work. As far as ages, I prefer to work with adults to geriatric, 18+.
About Michael Kotch
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have extensive experience using CBT to help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors. I guide individuals in developing practical strategies to improve their emotional well-being, manage stress, and change unhelpful habits by focusing on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
I utilize CPT to help clients address and reframe trauma-related thoughts and beliefs. Through structured sessions, I guide individuals in identifying distorted thinking patterns and developing healthier, more adaptive ways of interpreting their experiences, ultimately helping them heal from trauma and reduce PTSD symptoms.
Eclectic
I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness techniques, to tailor treatment to each client's unique needs. By integrating different methods, I provide a personalized approach that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term goals, fostering growth and healing in a way that resonates with the individual.
Gestalt
I use Gestalt Therapy to help clients increase awareness of their present thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By focusing on the here-and-now, I support individuals in understanding how past experiences influence their current relationships and choices, fostering personal growth, self-acceptance, and a deeper sense of connection with themselves and others.