Michael Hollen
I'm someone who tries to be as down to earth as I can be. My clients know that I'm "just a dude" who is trying his best to navigate life just like everyone else, and I bring this approach with me into the counseling space. I pride myself on being humble, understanding, and compassionate, and I try my hardest to make sure that my clients know they are valued. Because of this, I try to be as flexible as I can be in my practice. I work nearly every evening and on weekends, because I value meeting people where they are and where they need me.
I tend to work with several mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and various personality disorders.
I work with populations of individuals struggling with addiction, bipolar, sexual identity concerns, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and victims of trauma, among other diagnoses.
First session
During your first session, you can expect me to ask questions to develop a better understanding of who you are. I do not "dig" during our first session, because the emphasis is making sure we jive well and get along. I try my hardest to make sure that my clients are comfortable, so that I can prepare them for what therapy entails.
Strengths
My biggest strengths come from my flexibility and understanding. I am willing to accept everyone's unique circumstances and I'm able to find positives in each. I'm also willing to provide a non-judgmental space for people who have topics to share about which few, of any, other people know about. My friendly and caring demeanor offers a therapeutic experience that invites my clientele to share if they feel the need to do so.
Ideal clients
I love working with clients who are ready to make changes in their lives, even if they're not sure yet what that looks like. Wherever you're starting from, I'm invested in helping you get where you want to be. Because of this, my ideal client is someone who is willing to embrace the thought of a better, more comforting lifestyle.
Treatment methods
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I allow my clients to be the "drivers" of the therapy vehicle we are both in and take a "passenger" role. I ask questions along the way, but ultimately I'm not the one driving the session. Person-centered therapy allows me to hear my clients' experience without feeling the need to interject.
Gottman method
I use the Gottman Method to help clients understand what love language they speak and which one they hear. Often, my clients tell me they share their love language in one way, but prefer to receive it in another, and I use this as a base to help them improve their communication with their partners.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
By talking to your inner-child and asking them what pain they are carrying, I try to help my clients understand that carrying pain is a natural way for them to feel safe. However, I also ask them questions like, "what would happen if you let go of that pain?" and explore their answers.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Most of the time, our bodies will tell us exactly what is wrong with them and what they need (think of when you're hungry, for example!). Because of this, I use mindfulness techniques to help my clients tap into a deeper understanding of who they are and why they may be carrying pain.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Licensed in
- PennsylvaniaLicense PC015476