Michael Najera
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 Adventist Hospital, dual diagnosis program. I have extensive experience with Individuals experiencing relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, OCD, trauma, couples therapy, and life transitions.
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.
You have lived a life experience that no one can teach about in a grad course. My philosophy is you will teach me much more than the classes I took. I look forward to hearing your story with compassion and empathy; you'll feel seen and understood. 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, a new granddaughter, love to water ski, play drums, race cars, and fix things around the house. The last one is a love hate relationship. Ha ha.
First session
I take our time slowly; allowing you to share your story/reason you are seeing me, and together, we will establish your goals, process relationship issues, grief, anxiety/depression, personal growth, character development etc. I can assist you with most issues people seek therapy for. I am here for you this entire journey. I am told I make my client feel heard and safe. I am also told that I do not dance around issues that must be addressed. 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. You can ask me any question you'd like.
Strengths
There is no "manual" for human development. Yes, theories matter, and CBT, psychodynamic, as well as Solution focused are great. I truly believe that you find whatever works for you is the best modality for you. The way I do therapy, I am told, is, I guide you to finding the solution on your own. I ask questions or tell stories that will create "reflection". You will stumble upon a meaning/refection that you "own" rather than me guiding you down a road that may not be true for you.
Ideal clients
I enjoy working with all clients that seek therapy. The fact that they are seeking help is a major step. Impressive. I love working with the addictive system: adults of alcoholic/substance use parents. People affected by parents that have alcoholic/substance use issues. In the background of the addictive system, is typically abandonment and or trauma. Either physical or emotional, or both. Greif is another. I have seen many grief symptoms become manageable after processing grief. The pain of losing a loved one never fully goes away. I will teach you healthy ways to incorporate your loss into your life rather than avoid your feelings. I am told that I work well with couples. I will show couples how to fight with respect; become closer, and work together rather than seeing your partner as the enemy. I absolutely love helping men and women find their authentic selves. Building a foundation within themselves is the first step to everything else. I work well with all clients that are making a commitment to themselves through therapy and in their daily life. My bread and butter are helping men and women with boundaries in their relationships, processing a painful childhood, abandonment, trauma, and understanding why they keep picking partners that disappoint.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I always use the modality that is right for you. This allows you to work within a method that aligns with your personality. CBT, solution focused are woven into my work as needed.
Psychodynamic
I've taken many trainings on attachment and strongly believe how one attaches to their primary caregiver(s) plays a role in attachment with others throughout one's life. I always use psychodynamic modality in my toolbox and often encourage exploration of early childhood events to develop awareness of patterns and behaviors.
Attachment-based
CBT, Psychodynamic, and attachment are always in my toolbox. Many therapists use a mix of all modalities. People are dynamic, and so is therapy.
Location
Virtual sessions