Michael Belay
Life can feel heavy when addressing past trauma, cycling between emotional highs and lows, or when depression and anxiety make daily tasks difficult. No matter the cause, if you are just trying to keep your head above water, it takes courage to seek change and you don't have to navigate this alone. As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, I partner with clients who are ready to confront behavioral health challenges head-on. I provide evidence-based care for depressive and anxiety-related conditions as well as various mood and trauma-related disorders. Together, we will unpack old patterns, stabilize your moods, and build practical strategies to reach your goals.
No matter the cause, if you are just trying to keep your head above water, it takes courage to seek change and you don't have to navigate this alone.
First session
You should never leave a therapy session wondering what comes next. After our first meeting, you will have clear expectations for the direction of your treatment and the confidence that I am fully committed to helping you reach your goals—supported by extensive clinical experience and an approach that is both empathetic and straightforward.
Strengths
Whether you feel motivated or exhausted, I am here to meet you exactly where you are. I strive to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space. As a Person-Centered therapist, my goal is to provide a supportive environment that includes genuine, unconditional positive regard and empathy. You don’t need everything figured out; just show up as you are. Together, we will unpack what keeps you stuck and build practical tools to reach your goals. Follow the link to schedule an initial session.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is a teen or adult who is struggling with both acute emotional crises and long-term mental health struggles, including anxiety and depression. This client is seeking to achieve mental stability and increased insight. They value direct, honest and empathetic feedback. Right now, circumstances may be holding them back, but they are ready to invest in a solution that gives them back their enjoyment in life."
Ongoing work together
Our ongoing work is a true partnership built around a mutually established agenda that keeps your treatment goals front and center. Together, we will check in regularly on your progress, adapt our approach as your needs evolve, and ensure every session feels purposeful—so you are never guessing about what we are working toward or why.
Treatment methods
Person-centered (Rogerian)
My practice is grounded in Person-Centered Therapy, which means I view you as the true expert on your own life. Think of difficult emotions, anxiety, or life stressors as waves in the ocean. Rather than trying to stop the tide for you or telling you which shore to swim toward, I get into the water alongside you. Together, we focus on helping you ride your wave—honoring where you are right now, building your balance, and trusting your own capacity to navigate whatever comes next in a space free of judgment.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Alongside a person-centered foundation, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to give you practical, everyday tools for managing what comes your way. If life stressors and anxious or depressive thoughts are the waves, CBT is how you learn to read the water and steer your board. Together, we look at how your thoughts, feelings, and actions feed into one another—helping you spot unhelpful patterns before they knock you off balance. Instead of getting pulled under by every surge, you will build concrete skills to adjust your stance and ride your wave with confidence.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Licensed in
- WashingtonLicense SWI.LW.61444305