Michael is very familiar with anxiety having overcome the disorder himself earlier in his life through therapy and medication as well as ongoing determination to get better. This led him to earn a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Benedictine University, in Illinois.
He completed intensive training at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital’s Center for Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, in Illinois, where he used Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) techniques, among other therapeutic approaches, to help people with OCD or other types of anxiety experience superior outcomes with their symptoms. This includes an individualized plan to reduce OCD behaviors in as little as 12 weeks.
Michael’s Philosophy on ERP
“I use Exposure and Response Prevention, which is a structured, evidence-based form of psychotherapy, to help people gain control over their intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. ERP is one of the most effective treatments for OCD, with strong research support showing significant improvement in functioning and quality of life.”
Michael’s Philosophy on CBT
“Approaches grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy—strategies specifically designed to work with anxious thoughts and the maladaptive behaviors that follow—can make a meaningful difference in a person’s life in no time at all. CBT is the gold standard for addressing the distress of intrusive thinking and ruminating thoughts. What’s there not to be excited about this.”
Occasionally, Michael also works closely with couples, addressing the dynamics between partners that can lead to the misconceptions and assumptions that negatively impact their relationship. Whether consciously or unconsciously, Michael helps couples dispel the expectation that:
It’s Michael’s belief that life’s challenges can be overcome—and success achieved—through a personalized approach to counseling. Michael treats each individual in the relationship as a person with unique needs and desires. This includes providing them with care and compassion to mend the brokenness they may feel.
