LMFT, 17 years of experience
Hello, I'm Dr. Michael Murray, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing virtual counseling in California and Washington. My approach to therapy is warm, conversational, and collaborative, creating a space for genuine connection and nonjudgmental support. Drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), existential therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI), I help clients develop psychological flexibility, explore identity and purpose, and tap into their own motivation for change. Rather than focusing on eliminating discomfort, I guide clients in accepting difficult emotions, unhooking from unhelpful thought patterns, and taking meaningful action aligned with their values. Together, we cultivate self-compassion, new perspectives, and practical steps toward a fulfilling, authentic life.
The first therapy session is a collaborative, conversational space focused on building connection, understanding, and a strong foundation for meaningful work. Clients are warmly welcomed into a nonjudgmental environment where they can share what brings them to therapy, their hopes for change, and past challenges. As comfort grows, we may explore deeper themes, such as what truly matters to them and how to move from avoidance to acceptance. Toward the end, we reflect on key insights, identify a small, values-driven step forward, and discuss next steps, ensuring they feel supported in their journey toward lasting change.
I have over 17 years of experience assisting individuals and families in making significant and lasting changes in their lives. Over the years I have learned that clients already know where they want to go and what they need to do to get there. The problem is they have lost connection somehow with this internal wisdom and my job is to utilize curiosity to assist them in reconnecting with their true self.
I work best with individuals open to self-exploration, growth, and meaningful change—even if they feel stuck or uncertain at first. My approach supports those navigating life transitions, feeling unfulfilled, or struggling with anxiety, depression, avoidance, or existential concerns. I also work well with deep thinkers, those in recovery, and individuals seeking behavior change or greater psychological flexibility. Ideal clients are willing to engage in self-reflection, explore new perspectives, and approach discomfort with curiosity. Together, we focus on small, values-driven actions that foster lasting change, self-acceptance, and a more meaningful life.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages individuals to embrace their emotions and thoughts without judgment, fostering psychological flexibility and guiding them to live in alignment with their core values. I utilize a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach, encouraging clients to explore their internal world without trying to "fix" or change them. ACT attempts to build acceptance and action in line with personal values, rather than focusing on eliminating symptoms or getting rid of difficult emotions.
Existential psychotherapy focuses on exploring the fundamental questions of human existence, such as meaning, freedom, isolation, and mortality. Therapeutic conversations encourage clients to confront the challenges of life and find personal meaning, responsibility, and authenticity in their experiences. My goal is to understand the client’s experience in a non-judgmental way. Therapy sessions are conversational and often philosophical encouraging clients to find their own meaning and direction by delving into their internal world, confronting life’s inherent uncertainties, and making conscious choices about how to live with purpose.
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is client-centered and directive approach which aims to assist clients in resolving ambivalence and making positive changes in behavior. It’s particularly effective when a person is unsure they are ready to make changes and can help clients explore and strengthen their motivations for change. MI sessions are conversational, empathetic, and client-driven. I utilize open-ended questions, affirmations, reflective listening, and summarizing to guide the conversation and help clients explore their motivations and potential for change. The goal isn’t to force change, but rather to help clients connect more deeply with their own desires for change and strengthen their commitment to take action.
7 ratings with written reviews
August 14, 2025
I’ve been working with Michael for a few months. I’ve had a major fear of counseling, but he walked me through that. He has a heart and understanding for those that have found themselves stuck in a struggle. He is open and kind. He helps champion you through whatever you’re facing and offers excellent instruction and advice for the tough stuff. He lets you lead the discussion and I appreciate that. Some weeks are deep and some weeks are more of just an encouragement along the way.
July 30, 2025
Very chill dude. Appreciate him doubling down on his thoughts. He's pretty wholesome.
June 17, 2025
I couldn’t be happier with my therapist, Michael Murray. From our very first session, he made me feel heard, understood, and genuinely supported. His thoughtful insights, patience, and compassionate approach have helped me make meaningful progress in areas I’ve struggled with for years. Michael creates a safe, non-judgmental space where I feel comfortable being completely honest, and his guidance has been both empowering and transformative. I’m truly grateful to have him as my therapist.