Christopher Standish, LCSW

Christopher Standish is an LCSW, which stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with nine years of clinical experience working in both publicly funded mental health clinics and substance abuse treatment communities. He has provided care to a broad spectrum of people, including children, adults, couples, and families, and has supported clients dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. Standish also brings focused experience addressing caregiver stress, aging and geriatric concerns, attachment and fatherhood issues, substance use problems, and family of origin and communication difficulties.

He approaches each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, aiming to understand individual life stories and the contexts that shape emotional struggles. Standish emphasizes collaborative planning, shaping conversations and treatment strategies to fit each client s specific needs and goals while using practical, evidence-informed methods. He recognizes that beginning therapy can feel daunting and affirms the courage it takes to seek support. Standish is licensed to practice as an LCSW in California and New York State and is based in California.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

Christopher Standish integrates client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing into his online practice. Client-centered therapy focuses on building a respectful, empathetic relationship where the client s experiences guide the work - it can be especially helpful for issues rooted in self-esteem, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps identify and adjust unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, making it a practical option for addressing anxiety, stress, and anger. Motivational interviewing is a collaborative style that supports people who are ambivalent about change, often used when working with motivation, substance use, or lifestyle shifts.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Standish works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences, and as a licensed professional he guides that decision-making so the plan feels practical and personalized.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to connect - video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging - which can make it easier to fit regular sessions into busy lives, accommodate mobility or caregiving responsibilities, and maintain continuity of care across changing circumstances. These options allow therapists and clients to focus on progress in a way that suits the client s schedule and comfort level.