Michael Tidstrand, LPCC - Therapist in California

About Michael

Michael Tidstrand welcomes people who are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, grief, depression, or life changes. He is a licensed professional clinical counselor - LPCC - based in California with ten years of experience. Sessions aim to be practical and down to earth so parents and busy adults can fit help into their lives.

He creates a calm, nonjudgmental space where people can talk through what feels hardest. Michael listens closely and uses questions and reflection to help people notice patterns in thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Background and approach

He blends hands-on tools with mindful awareness so clients can try new ways of coping between sessions. Training includes a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and the LPCC credential. Over a decade of practice has shaped his focus on everyday problems such as low self-esteem, compassion fatigue, ADHD, and mood concerns like bipolar disorder.

Therapeutic methods Michael uses include cognitive behavioral strategies, acceptance and commitment ideas, dialectical behavior skills, attachment-informed work, and a client-centered stance. He explains techniques plainly and helps people choose what fits their situation. Work in sessions is collaborative and paced to each person.

Michael helps set small, achievable steps so improvements build over time. He aims to support clearer thinking, steadier moods, and more reliable coping.

Therapeutic approaches suited for online care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice painful thoughts without getting stuck in them and commit to actions that match their values. It often focuses on what matters most and small steps toward those values. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches clear skills to change unhelpful thinking and behaviour patterns, useful for anxiety, depression, and stress. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provides concrete tools for managing intense emotions and improving coping skills in tough moments.

Choosing the right approach is collaborative. Michael will talk with each person about goals, daily challenges, and preferences, and together they will try methods that best fit the situation. Adjustments happen as needed so the work stays practical and relevant.

Online therapy with video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging makes it easier to fit sessions into busy schedules. These formats let people practice skills between meetings and get timely support when they need it. The variety of options supports continuity of care and flexibility for different lifestyles and needs.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Less about arguing with difficult thoughts, more about loosening their grip and acting on what matters to you anyway. Values and committed action carry the work, which suits conversation at a distance.

Attachment-Based Therapy

Looks at how early bonds shaped what you expect from closeness, and how that plays out now with a partner, a parent, or your own children.

Client-Centered Therapy

The direction comes from you rather than from a set programme. The therapist offers a warm, non-judgemental space to think out loud and work at your own pace. Online, this rests on the relationship rather than on being in the same room.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of problems does he address?

Michael helps with stress, anxiety, grief, depression, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, family-related concerns, self-esteem, bipolar disorder, and ADHD.

What is his therapy style like?

He combines active listening with practical skills. Sessions mix talk, reflection, mindfulness, and targeted exercises to build coping strategies.

How long has he been practicing?

He has ten years of clinical experience working with people facing a range of emotional and behavioral challenges.

What credentials and location are listed?

He holds the LPCC credential and practices in California. The license is documented as CA LPCC LPCC 7019.

Which languages are available for sessions?

Sessions are offered in English, and international clients are accepted.

What session formats does he offer?

He meets by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to provide flexible options.

How is cost handled?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability; services use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.

How do I begin working with him?

Start by selecting the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to the therapist's availability.

Specialties and expertise

Top specialties

Also works with

Therapeutic approaches

Experience: 10 years
Licensed: California
Languages: English

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