- Stress and anxiety
- Relationship work
- Life transitions
About Michael
Michael Henderson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia with 16 years as an LCSW and 25 years in behavioral health. He works with adults on concerns such as stress, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, bipolar disorder, and depression. Sessions are grounded in practical problem solving and goal setting for people feeling stuck after a change in work, relationships, or health.
He has worked in inpatient hospitals, community behavioral health centers, and outpatient settings. That range gives him experience with many diagnoses and with coordinating community resources when needed. He draws on a broad clinical toolbox built from years on the front line of care.
In sessions he begins by learning a client’s background during intake. He focuses on building trust, clarifying therapy goals, and identifying barriers that get in the way of those goals. Over time he shifts from a subtler communication style to a more direct one when helpful for progress.
Michael uses a trauma-informed stance and describes his practice as LGBTQIA affirming. He commonly works on practical skills for stress management, mood regulation, and improving communication in relationships. He also addresses concerns linked to medical diagnoses, caregiving strain, chronic illness, and life transitions.
His work is collaborative: clients help set the direction, and he helps map steps toward the goals they name. He draws on evidence-based techniques to address unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, and on community supports to reinforce progress.
Evidence-based approaches for direction and mood
Michael uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help people who feel stuck. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors to reduce anxiety and depression. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps people clarify values and take small actions toward what matters, which can be useful after big life changes.Finding the right approach is part of the work. He collaborates with each person to choose techniques that fit their goals, needs, and preferences. That means trying methods, checking what helps, and adjusting the plan together rather than assuming one fixed path.
Session logistics should be confirmed before booking because formats were not specified in the biography. Ask which session options are available when you schedule. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy week, allow shorter check-ins between in-person visits, and reduce travel time so sessions can occur during a lunch break or after work. Licensed professionals can adapt exercises and homework to life at home, at work, or during medical care to keep progress practical and manageable.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Experience
16+ years
Listed in
Virginia
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he help with?
He focuses on stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, self-esteem, bipolar disorder, and depression. He also addresses related areas like attachment issues, caregiver stress, chronic illness, and life transitions.
How does he approach people who feel stuck?
He starts with intake to learn your background and goals, then uses practical, evidence-based techniques to identify barriers and build skills. His style moves from subtle to more direct as rapport grows.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has 16 years as an LCSW and 25 years total working in behavioral health across hospital, community, and outpatient settings.
Is he a licensed clinician in my state?
He is a Virginia LCSW, practicing in Virginia according to the credential provided.
Can I work with him if English is not my first language?
Sessions are offered in English only according to the information provided.
Does he see clients outside the United States?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are sessions arranged and what do they cost?
Costs vary with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time. Specific pricing details depend on the location tied to the subscription.
What are the first steps to begin working together?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session to start the intake process.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the crisis numbers.