Michelle Boyles, LCSW

Approaches that guide online sessions

Michelle often blends client-centered work with cognitive behavioral ideas to help people notice unhelpful thoughts and try new behaviors. Client-centered therapy focuses on listening, validation, and helping the person set the pace and goals for change. Cognitive behavioral therapy looks at the links between thoughts, feelings, and actions and teaches practical exercises people can use between sessions.

She also uses dialectical behavior therapy skills and mindfulness practices to help clients manage strong emotions and reduce impulsive reactions. DBT-style skills emphasize emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and clearer communication. Mindfulness exercises help people stay grounded and build calm in stressful moments.

Finding the best mix of approaches is a collaborative process. The therapist will listen to your goals and preferences, try methods that seem likely to help, and adjust based on what feels most useful. That shared approach helps keep work focused and relevant to everyday life.

Online sessions offer practical flexibility. Video calls let you use visual cues and more in-depth conversation. Phone sessions work well when bandwidth or camera use is limited. Live chat and text-based messaging provide brief check-ins, quick skill practice, or support between longer sessions. These options make it easier to fit therapy into work, caregiving, or busy schedules while working toward clearer coping and better day-to-day functioning.