Michelle Clisby, LCSW - Therapist in California

About Michelle

Michelle Clisby is a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California. She has 15 years of experience helping people facing relationship strains, family conflicts, low self-esteem, depression, and motivation struggles. She focuses on making the first step easier for people who want change.

Michelle aims to be a steady, practical presence during difficult moments. She creates a calm, nonjudgmental space where clients can speak honestly about feelings and worries. Sessions emphasize clear communication and practical steps the client can try between meetings.

Background and approach

Michelle listens for patterns that keep problems repeating and helps people try new ways of relating and coping. Her work often covers stress, anxiety, grief, and challenges around parenting, intimacy, and life transitions. She also supports those dealing with addiction, trauma, and issues related to identity and LGBT concerns.

Additional areas she addresses include adoption and foster care, blended family dynamics, caregiver stress, and end-of-life planning. Michelle brings experience to conversations about communication, commitment, and forgiveness after betrayal. She also helps with anger, career change, and managing symptoms of bipolar disorder and ADHD in daily life.

Her approach blends practical coaching with talk therapy to help clients build skills. Clients can expect straightforward guidance, clear goals, and attention to what works in their daily lives. Michelle partners with each person to find manageable changes that fit their situation.

She speaks English and practices in California as a licensed clinician.

Practical therapy approaches for online family and relationship work

Michelle uses evidence-based techniques that focus on clear communication and real-world change. One approach emphasizes learning and practicing communication skills to reduce conflict and improve connection in relationships and family dynamics. This helps people express needs more clearly and respond to others with less reactivity.

Another common approach centers on coping skills for mood and stress. It teaches small steps for managing anxiety, depression, and anger so daily life feels more manageable. These techniques often include goal-setting, activity planning, and simple behavioral changes that people can try between sessions.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Michelle treats therapy as a collaboration and will help identify which methods match a client's needs, goals, and preferences. Together they check what is helping and adjust the plan as needed.

Online sessions are offered by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to fit busy schedules. These formats make it easier to attend sessions from home or during a break at work and allow flexible follow-up between meetings. The variety of options supports ongoing momentum and helps clients practice new skills in their everyday routines.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of concerns does Michelle address?

She works with relationship and family problems, self-esteem, depression, stress, anxiety, grief, addiction, trauma, parenting, and many related issues.

What is her therapeutic style like?

Sessions are conversational and practical. She listens without judgment and helps clients try clear communication and coping strategies between sessions.

How much clinical experience does she have?

Michelle has 15 years of professional experience supporting people through relationship and life challenges.

What are her credentials and where is she licensed?

She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, licensed in California with license number CA LCSW 27411.

Which languages are supported for sessions?

Sessions are offered in English.

What session formats does she offer?

Sessions can be held via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

How is pricing handled for therapy?

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

What are the steps to begin working together?

To start, select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule sessions based on the therapist's availability.

Specialties and expertise

Top specialties

Relationship issues
Family conflicts
Self esteem

Also works with

Experience: 15 years
Licensed: California
Languages: English

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