Michael Roeske
I want therapy to be a place where you feel understood and can speak openly about what is difficult, confusing, or painful in your life. My approach is thoughtful, curious, and nonjudgmental, with attention to both finding greater acceptance of your current circumstances and making meaningful changes. I am a clinical psychologist with more than 20 years of experience in behavioral healthcare, with particular expertise in substance use and co-occurring mental health concerns. Alongside clinical practice, I lead research and innovation efforts for a national behavioral healthcare organization, have directed treatment programs, and publish and speak on mental health and addiction. These experiences inform our work together as we explore ways to ease your distress, navigate what you’re facing, and move toward what matters to you.
First session
Our first session is an opportunity to get to know one another and for me to understand what brings you to therapy, including how I may be able to help. Just as importantly, it is a chance for you to get a sense of me: whether you find me trustworthy, whether I have the needed experience and expertise, and whether you believe I will take the time to fully understand both you and your concerns. We’ll also start discussing what you hope to get out of therapy.
Strengths
One of my strengths is recognizing that few people are deeply listened to, particularly as they walk through complicated, isolating problems. I also have considerable experience working with substance use and co-occurring mental health concerns, including with people who are ambivalent about change, have struggled to change despite a strong desire to do so, or identify as being in recovery and need additional support.
Ideal clients
You don't need to enter therapy knowing exactly what you want to change or even feeling completely ready to change. What matters more is a willingness to be curious and increasingly honest with yourself about what is and what isn't working. My ideal client is open to looking at themselves, considering their own patterns and relationships, including the relationship we develop in therapy, and ultimately taking an active role in creating meaningful change.
Treatment methods
Eclectic
My approach to therapy is guided more by principles than by any single set of techniques. I draw from relational and insight-oriented perspectives, approaches that help people explore motivation and recovery, and practical strategies for changing thoughts and behaviors. What remains consistent is an emphasis on developing a shared understanding of the problem and using approaches that make sense for you at that particular point in treatment.
Psychodynamic
I draw on psychodynamic perspectives to explore how experiences may shape what you expect from yourself and others, including patterns that emerge in our work together. Developing this understanding can create more room to respond differently, communicate your needs, and make choices that better reflect what you want in your life.
Motivational Interviewing
Feeling uncertain about change is a common. I use motivational interviewing to help you explore these competing feelings without pressure or judgment. We work to clarify what matters to you, understand your own reasons for change, and identify steps you feel willing and able to take. Your goals and autonomy remain central throughout this process.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use cognitive behavioral approaches to examine how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence one another. We may look at interpretations that intensify distress, habits that provide short-term relief but create longer-term difficulties, or activities you have been avoiding. Together, we will test assumptions, approach difficult situations, and consider different responses.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
My approach begins with an interest in understanding your experience as you live it, including what gives your life meaning and where you feel conflicted or disconnected. I aim to offer a relationship grounded in empathy, respect, and acceptance, where you can speak openly without having to present yourself a certain way.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
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Serves
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 29031