Michael Southerland, LMFT
- Stress and anxiety
- LGBT and intimacy
- 12 years experience
About Michael Southerland
Michael approaches therapy from a strengths-based perspective, holding the belief that each person is the expert of their own story and already possesses resources that can help them move forward. He emphasizes collaboration, helping clients identify practical steps and new perspectives while honoring their lived experience and personal goals. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling life is recognized as an act of courage, and Michael positions himself as a supportive guide through that process.
He combines evidence-informed methods with a client-centered stance to tailor work to each individual, focusing on what the client values and hopes to change. His practice attends to both everyday stresses and deeper questions about meaning, connection, and intimacy.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Additional Focus Areas
Therapeutic Approach
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Michael Southerland have?
Michael Southerland has 12 years of professional experience.
Is Michael Southerland a licensed therapist?
Yes. He is an LMFT, which stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and is licensed in California as CA LMFT 87924.
In which languages does Michael Southerland provide therapy?
Michael provides therapy in English.
Where is Michael Southerland located?
Michael is located in California.
How can I work with Michael Southerland as my therapist?
You can work with Michael through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Michael Southerland work with international clients?
Michael Southerland does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Michael Southerland cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care
Michael integrates client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) into online work. Client-centered therapy focuses on creating a collaborative, respectful relationship where the therapist follows the client's lead, helping people uncover their own strengths and values to address relationship, intimacy, and identity concerns. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) offers structured tools to identify and shift unhelpful thought and behavior patterns, which can be useful for managing stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms.Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Michael works together with clients to assess their needs, goals, and preferences and then tailors methods accordingly, adapting sessions as understanding grows and priorities change. This collaborative stance helps ensure the chosen strategies feel relevant and workable for each person.
Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can occur by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging - making it easier to fit care into busy lives or to continue work from different locations. Licensed professionals can use these formats to maintain continuity of care, adapt pacing, and offer real-time tools and support that align with each client's day-to-day context.
Ready to start therapy with Michael Southerland?
Take the first step toward a better you.