- 17 years experience
- LCSW in Tennessee
- Practical skill building
About Michael
Michael Valdes is a Tennessee-based licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who focuses on men's wellbeing among a broad range of concerns. He brings 17 years of experience to sessions and aims to help people manage stress, anxiety, addictions, depression, and relationship or intimacy-related problems. He also supports clients dealing with grief, trauma, self-esteem, ADHD, and career or life transitions.
In session Michael uses practical, straightforward conversations to help people identify what matters to them and take realistic steps forward. He draws on several approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Existential Therapy, and chooses tools that match each person's goals.
Clients can expect a relaxed, goal-focused rhythm where they talk through problems, practice new skills, and revisit what’s working. Michael pays attention to patterns such as abandonment, attachment issues, control problems, jealousy, and forgiveness, and he addresses specific concerns like drug and alcohol addiction, infidelity, and communication breakdowns.
He also works with people navigating alternative sex culture topics like BDSM and kink, and those coping with cancer, compassion fatigue, or the emotional fallout of divorce and separation. The aim is to make change manageable, not overwhelming, using clear steps and regular check-ins.
Michael invites people who want practical tools and steady support to consider working together. To begin, prospective clients use the site’s Start Therapy process to match and schedule a time that fits their needs.
How Michael applies approaches to online therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice what matters to them and build actions that align with those values, even when feelings are hard. It can be useful for anxiety, depression, and making life changes. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on spotting unhelpful thoughts and testing new behaviors to reduce distress and improve functioning; it often helps with anxiety, mood, and coping skills. Client-Centered Therapy centers conversations on the person's own goals, with the therapist listening, reflecting, and supporting decisions rather than directing them.Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss goals, try strategies, and adjust as needed so the work fits the client. Expect to try practical exercises, review what helped, and shift course if something does not feel useful.
Confirm current session options before booking, since specific formats were not listed in the biography. Online therapy can make sessions easier to fit into busy schedules, allow shorter check-ins when time is limited, and reduce travel time so appointments are more convenient. Licensed professionals can guide pacing, homework, and skill practice to suit each person's routine and needs.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
17+ years
Credentials
Tennessee
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What problems does Michael help with?
He works with many concerns including addictions, anxiety, depression, stress, relationship and intimacy issues, trauma, grief, self-esteem, ADHD, and career or life changes.
What is his style of therapy like?
Sessions are practical and conversational, focusing on clear steps, skill practice, and tracking progress rather than long lectures or abstract theory.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has 17 years of psychotherapy experience providing ongoing support for a wide variety of concerns.
Which credentials and where is he licensed?
He holds a Licensed Clinical Social Worker credential, LCSW, and practices in Tennessee.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the U.S. work with him?
He is not accepting international clients at this time.
How does pricing work?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working together?
Use the Start Therapy button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule sessions based on the therapist's availability.