MD, LCSW-C

Michael Misterka, MD, LCSW-C

Therapist in Maryland

Michael is a MD, LCSW-C therapist in Maryland.

15+ years of experience
Focus areas include Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues
Approaches include Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy

See availability and next steps on BetterHelp.

About Michael

Michael Misterka helps people make practical, sustainable changes to reduce suffering and improve satisfaction in daily life. He understands that therapeutic progress often involves difficult work, particularly when family of origin dynamics or significant relationships are part of the equation. He draws on a blend of developmental, psychodynamic, cognitive, reality therapy, and experiential practices to tailor treatment to each person’s needs and circumstances.

At the core of his work is a client-centered, client-motivated philosophy. He encourages open conversation about therapeutic options and respects each person’s authority to decide what they want from therapy and which changes they wish to pursue. He positions himself as a collaborative partner, walking alongside clients as they work toward their goals.

He brings fifteen years of counseling experience to his practice and has focused on issues affecting both men and women, including relationship conflict, trauma and abuse, parenting challenges, and families affected by substance use, incarceration, and reentry. He has also worked with combat veterans navigating readjustment to civilian life, and with people coping with anxiety, depression, anger management, and major life transitions. He holds an MD, indicating a medical degree, and an LCSW-C, which denotes a licensed clinical social worker credential.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support

Attachment-Based Therapy focuses on understanding how early bonds shape current relationships and emotional responses. It helps people address attachment issues, intimacy-related concerns, and patterns that interfere with close connections. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes the client’s perspective, giving space for self-exploration and personal decision-making while the therapist offers empathic support and nonjudgmental reflection. This approach can be useful for clients seeking clarity about goals and values. Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) attends to underlying emotions and how they influence interactions, especially in romantic relationships; it can help partners and individuals identify emotional patterns and create more responsive ways of relating.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Michael Misterka works collaboratively with clients to determine which methods align with their needs, goals, and preferences, and he adjusts the plan as work progresses. The aim is to match techniques to what will best support each person’s growth.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, making it easier to fit sessions into busy schedules and to maintain continuity of care across locations. These options allow licensed professionals to meet clients where they are and provide consistent support in ways that suit individual routines and communication styles.

Frequently asked questions

How much experience does Michael Misterka have?

Michael Misterka has 15 years of experience in counseling practice.

Is Michael Misterka a licensed therapist?

Yes. He holds the credentials MD and LCSW-C. License details: MD LCSW-C 16573.

In which languages does Michael Misterka provide therapy?

Michael Misterka provides therapy in English.

Where is Michael Misterka located?

He is located in Maryland.

How can I work with Michael Misterka as my therapist?

You can work with Michael Misterka through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Michael Misterka work with international clients?

Michael Misterka does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Michael Misterka 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.