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Michael Lemley

Michael Lemley, LCSW

Therapist in California

Strengths-based, relational therapy

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Review online therapy options on BetterHelp.

10 years of experience listed

LCSW professional credentials

English languages

  • Collaborative approach
  • Practical skills
  • Focus on self-worth

About Michael

Michael Lemley is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who brings a collaborative, down-to-earth style to therapy. He focuses on helping people build self-esteem and handle stress, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and major life changes. Sessions aim to let the person's authentic self show up so real problems can be addressed.

He works from a relational stance and emphasizes honest, transparent conversations. Michael looks for strengths and values a person already has, then helps them align daily choices with their ideal self. This practical focus makes progress feel useful and relevant to everyday life.

Michael pays attention to communication patterns and the role forgiveness and self-love play in healing. He helps people talk through hurts, set clearer boundaries, and rebuild a kinder relationship with themselves. Many clients find this approach useful when relationships feel strained or confidence has dipped.

Over a decade of clinical work has shaped his straightforward style. Michael uses what works, adapts to each person, and keeps goals practical. He supports people as they try new behaviors, notice small gains, and adjust when things get hard.

Sessions are offered in English and based in California. Before booking, confirm the current session options and scheduling details through the Start Therapy process on the site.

How evidence-based techniques fit into online care

Michael describes his approach as collaborative and relational, and he draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to guide sessions. One common approach focuses on identifying strengths and values and then helping people make choices that align with those values; this helps when self-esteem is low or people feel stuck. Another approach emphasizes improving communication skills and forgiveness work, which can reduce relationship strain and ease everyday conflict.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Michael will talk with each person about their goals, symptoms, and preferences and then recommend techniques that fit. He treats this as a team effort and adjusts plans as progress or challenges appear.

Practical benefits of online therapy often include easier scheduling and fitting sessions into a busy week. Online formats can make it simpler to have a shorter check-in, avoid travel time, or join from a quieter spot with less disruption. The therapist's biography does not list specific session formats, so confirm the current options before booking to learn which formats are supported and how they fit your routine.

Areas of expertise

Additional focus areas

Experience

10+ years

Credentials

California

Languages

English

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does Michael help with?

He works with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, self esteem, and coping with life changes. He also focuses on communication problems, forgiveness, and self-love.

What is his therapeutic style like?

Michael uses a collaborative, relational, and down-to-earth style. He aims for honest conversations and helps people build on their strengths and values.

How much clinical experience does he have?

He has 10 years of experience working in clinical settings and with individuals on common life and emotional concerns.

What are his credentials and where is he based?

He holds an LCSW, which is a licensed clinical social worker credential, and practices in California.

In which language are sessions offered?

Sessions are offered in English. International clients are not currently accepted.

What session formats are available?

The original biography does not list specific session formats. Please confirm the current session options before booking.

How is cost handled for sessions?

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 continue button on this profile, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.

Michael LemleyContinue with Michael