Childhood is a period of discovery and growth, a time for children to get to know themselves and to see how they fit into their world. How each child approaches this can vary based on their circumstances, temperament, and unique traits. For some children, this can seem like a seamless transition into adolescence and adulthood, while for others it can be daunting and filled with fits and starts. In today’s world of growing demands and expectations, it’s easy for parents and children to become overwhelmed during this time. If you or your child are struggling, therapy can help you get back on track and to enjoying your time together.

As a therapist, Michael (he/him) approaches each individual he counsels with the belief they have within them the innate potential to grow and thrive, and he works from a place of curiosity and warmth to foster this. What therapy looks like and how it progresses depends on the client and their specific needs, but Michael believes a playful and trusting partnership is key to facilitating growth and change. At the core of his work, Michael aims to provide his clients a safe space to test out who they are and how they want to be, which can increase confidence and self-worth and reduce symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, and other psychological difficulties.

Michael holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles, and a Bachelor of Science from Boston University. He received training at the Family Service Agency of Burbank, where he served families, teens, and adults. He’s counseled clients through a range of difficulties including grief and loss, familial discord, life transitions, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and trauma. He also worked at Burbank High School’s Care Center, where he provided crisis management services and group therapy to teens experiencing bullying, identity and family issues, peer-to-peer challenges, LGBTQ+ concerns, and trauma. In addition to his work with Dr. Denham, Michael serves as a teletherapist to individuals throughout California. He has completed the Reflective Parenting Program’s Level 1 training and is enrolled in ongoing training for the Violet Oaklander Gestalt Play Therapy model.