Michelle Olson, LMSW, LCSW

Michelle Olson is a licensed social worker with 18 years of clinical experience, licensed as an LMSW and an LCSW in Michigan and Indiana. LMSW stands for Licensed Master Social Worker and LCSW stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker, credentials that reflect advanced training and experience in mental health care. She focuses her practice on helping people manage stress, anxiety, depression, and addictions while also addressing challenges with self-esteem and compassion fatigue.

Michelle works with individuals confronting abandonment and attachment issues, codependency, communication and control struggles, drug and alcohol addiction, feelings of emptiness, family conflict, and issues around forgiveness, guilt, and shame. She also supports clients dealing with impulsivity, isolation or loneliness, questions about life purpose, midlife transitions, and money or financial concerns.

In sessions she emphasizes an open, nonjudgmental atmosphere where thoughts and feelings can be expressed candidly. Michelle collaborates with clients to identify goals and practical steps toward a more fulfilling life, recognizing that taking the first step requires courage. She provides steady support through that process and helps clients build motivation, skills, and insight to move forward.

Therapeutic Approaches Michelle Uses Online

Michelle Olson integrates client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to tailor online care to each person. Client-centered therapy focuses on creating an accepting, empathetic space so clients can explore feelings and values; it is helpful for building self-esteem, processing attachment and abandonment concerns, and working through family or relational difficulties. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors, which can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and problems related to addiction.

She also draws on elements of dialectical behavior therapy when emotion regulation, impulsivity, or interpersonal difficulties are prominent. DBT teaches practical skills for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and reducing self-destructive behaviors. Michelle approaches treatment collaboratively - she helps clients determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences and adjusts the plan as progress unfolds.

Online therapy with Michelle is offered by licensed professionals via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility that makes it easier to attend sessions around work, family, or travel. These options increase access to ongoing support and allow therapy to fit into everyday life in practical ways.