(he/him)
New to Grow
Hi, I'm Mike Bailey. I was born and raised in North Florida, and I bring both professional experience and personal life experience into the work I do with clients. Over the past five years in clinical practice, I’ve had the privilege of helping people navigate challenges related to mental health, substance use, and personal growth. My path has also been shaped by my own experiences. As a person in recovery from substance use disorder, I have maintained nine years of continuous sobriety. Recovery has taught me the value of resilience, self-awareness, and connection, and it allows me to bring a deeper level of understanding and empathy to the people I serve. I believe that every individual’s journey is unique. My goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. Learning how to be a compassionate and objective guide for others has become my life’s work.
During our first session, the primary focus will be on getting to know one another and establishing an open, comfortable line of communication. Meaningful healing begins with a strong therapeutic relationship, and building a foundation of trust, honesty, and collaboration is an important first step. You can expect our time together to include both information gathering and information sharing. I'll ask questions to better understand your experiences, concerns, and goals, while also providing space for you to ask questions and share what feels important to you. This process helps us develop a clear understanding of how we can work together most effectively. We will also discuss your hopes for treatment, explore any goals you may already have, and talk about what you would like to see change or improve in your life. If you're unsure about your goals at this point, that's completely okay. Many people begin therapy knowing they want something to be different but aren't yet certain what that looks like. Goals often become clearer and evolve naturally as our work together progresses. Above all, this first session is designed to be a welcoming, no-pressure environment where you can feel comfortable being yourself. My goal is to meet you where you are and begin building a partnership that supports your growth, healing, and overall well-being.
I bring a combination of professional training, clinical experience, and lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. My approach is grounded in empathy, authenticity, and genuine curiosity about each person's unique story. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe, respected, and free to explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges without fear of judgment. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to build strong therapeutic relationships based on trust, openness, and collaboration. I believe meaningful change happens when clients feel heard and understood, and I work to foster an environment where honest communication can develop naturally. Whether you are facing mental health challenges, navigating recovery, or working through a difficult life transition, my goal is to meet you where you are and support you in identifying a path forward that aligns with your values and goals. I understand that change is rarely linear and that healing often requires patience, courage, and self-compassion. This perspective allows me to approach each client with humility, understanding, and respect for the effort it takes to pursue lasting change. Clients often appreciate my ability to balance compassion with honest feedback, creating a supportive environment that encourages both self-acceptance and personal growth. Together, we will work to identify your strengths, clarify your goals, and develop practical strategies that support your overall well-being and long-term success.
Individuals trying to stop using drugs or alcohol. Clients who are over the age of 18 years-old. Clients who have struggled to find helpful therapy in the past but who are willing to connect with a new therapist. Or, anyone new to therapy who is curious to see how their life could be different. Let's start on this new journey together!
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a well-known and well documented approach to treating a variety of mental health issues/diagnosis. Under the umbrella of CBT therapy there are numerous methods and strategies that can be implemented to meet the client’s needs. We are all different and come with our own unique life experiences, CBT allows flexibility and adaptability as a treatment approach. This is not a "one size fits all" method of treatment.