- Stress and anxiety
- Addictions support
- Grief and loss
About Maxwell
Maxwell Sleep-Frankel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in California with eight years of professional experience. He focuses on stress, anxiety, addictions, grief, depression, and coping with life changes. Maxwell works with adults navigating major transitions, loss, or long-term health challenges.
Before moving into clinical work he studied philosophy and psychology at Indiana University and completed a Master of Social Work at the University of Chicago. He has spent much of his career supporting older adults and people living with disabilities through difficult shifts in health, caregiving roles, and end-of-life planning.
In sessions he combines client-centered methods with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). That means conversations about values and practical steps that link thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. He also brings Motivational Interviewing and Narrative Therapy into the work when they fit the goals.
Maxwell often addresses addiction, chronic illness, caregiver stress, and issues around aging and hospice care. He is familiar with military and veteran cultures and includes that context when relevant to a person’s concerns. He also works with people dealing with guilt, shame, infidelity, and isolation.
People can expect straightforward, task-focused sessions that look at what matters now and what small changes might help. He uses his clinical background to guide practical problem solving, reduce overwhelm, and clarify next steps. To begin, follow the site process to find online therapy options and schedule a first session.
How Maxwell uses evidence-based approaches online
Maxwell commonly draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help people clarify what matters to them and take action despite difficult thoughts or feelings. ACT emphasizes values and committed steps, which can be useful for life purpose concerns and major transitions.He also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify links between thoughts, behaviors, and mood. CBT sessions often include concrete exercises and experiments to test unhelpful thinking and build new habits, which can help with anxiety, depression, and compulsive behaviors.
Finding the right approach is part of the work. Maxwell will talk with each person about what feels most useful and try different methods as needed. That collaborative process helps match techniques to goals and daily life constraints.
Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. Licensed professionals often use this flexibility to keep momentum between sessions and support steady progress without promising specific outcomes.
Areas of expertise
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
8+ years
Listed in
California
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does he work with?
He works with stress, anxiety, addictions, grief, depression, and coping with life changes, and also supports issues like chronic illness, caregiver stress, and life purpose.
How would he approach someone who feels stuck or directionless?
He uses client-centered conversation alongside CBT and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to identify values and practical steps. Sessions focus on small, doable changes rather than abstract advice.
What is his experience and background?
He has eight years of clinical experience and has worked extensively with older adults and people with disabilities on transitions, grief, and long-term health concerns.
What credentials and location are listed?
He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California.
In which languages can sessions be held?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
He accepts international clients; confirm any time zone or regional details before scheduling.
How are sessions paid for and what does it cost?
Cost varies with location; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I get started with him?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the crisis numbers.