- Client-centered approach
- Practical goal setting
- Focus on relationships
About Michael
Michael Misterka helps people manage stress, anxiety, relationship strain, addiction concerns, grief, and challenges tied to parenting and family life. He works with men’s wellbeing among other concerns and focuses on practical steps people can use between sessions. Michael is an LCSW-C in Maryland with 15 years of clinical experience.
He keeps sessions client-centered. That means the person in therapy decides what to address and what change looks like. Michael listens for what matters most and helps people set small, concrete goals. He emphasizes honest conversation and shared decision making throughout the work.
His approach draws on attachment ideas and emotionally-focused methods alongside psychodynamic thinking and motivational interviewing. In practice this looks like talking through relationship patterns, noticing feelings that repeat, and testing new ways of responding. He also uses solution-focused ideas to build step-by-step plans for immediate problems.
Michael has worked with people facing trauma, substance use issues, reentry after incarceration, readjustment after military service, and strong family conflicts. Over his 15 years he has seen how practical changes can reduce suffering and improve daily life. He aims to walk alongside clients as they make those changes.
People who meet with him can expect straightforward language, clear goals, and an emphasis on what will help now. If you want a therapist who prioritizes collaboration and practical progress, Michael offers a direct, supportive style.
How attachment and emotion-focused work translate to online sessions
Attachment-Based Therapy helps people notice patterns in close relationships and how those patterns affect current behavior. It often includes looking at past relationship experiences to understand why certain interactions feel familiar and painful. Emotionally-Focused Therapy emphasizes identifying and naming strong feelings, then using that awareness to change interaction patterns and improve closeness.The right approach is something the therapist and client pick together. Michael will listen to your goals, try different ways of working, and adjust based on what feels most helpful. This collaborative process means the work can shift as needs and priorities change.
If you plan to meet online, confirm which session formats are offered before booking. Many people find online sessions easier to fit into a busy week, require less travel time, and allow for quicker check-ins on progress. Others prefer sessions that allow more time for deeper emotional work. Discussing practical details up front helps match the approach and scheduling to everyday life.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
15+ years
Credentials
Maryland
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What issues does Michael commonly help with?
He works with stress, anxiety, relationship and family problems, parenting struggles, anger, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy and self-esteem concerns among other topics.
What is his general therapy style?
Sessions are client-centered and collaborative. He emphasizes honest discussion, shared decision making, and practical steps the client can use between sessions.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has 15 years of experience in counseling practice working with a range of concerns including trauma, substance use issues, and readjustment challenges.
What credentials and location are listed?
He holds an LCSW-C in Maryland and practices in that state.
Which languages are supported for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Are international clients accepted?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are costs handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a session according to the therapist's availability.