Michael is a licensed clinical mental health counselor who has spent nearly a decade helping adults work through emotional, cognitive, behavioral and relational challenges. His therapeutic work focuses on supporting clients with a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship difficulties, struggles with self‑acceptance and addiction issues. In addition to his mental health practice, Michael is also a licensed alcohol and drug counselor with 19 years of experience, allowing him to offer informed, compassionate care to individuals navigating substance-related and other addictions.
Michael works with individual adults 18+ both in-person and through telehealth. His approach is grounded in Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), a modality he values for its clarity, honesty, and ability to help clients transform the “musts,” “shoulds,” and internal pressures that create emotional suffering. He integrates REBT with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Person‑Centered Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Ericksonian hypnosis, which he is actively training and incorporating into his practice.
Clients often describe Michael’s style as warm, direct, and deeply collaborative. He believes that meaningful change grows out of a strong therapeutic relationship—one built on trust, curiosity, and non‑judgment. His work centers on helping clients develop greater unconditional acceptance of themselves, others, and life, so they can move toward choices that feel freer, healthier, and more aligned with who they want to be.
To schedule an appointment, you can click “Request Appointment” on the top of the screen or call Optimal Brain MN Clinic at 651-472-5915. The provider accepts most insurance plans, including VA CCN.