Michael Kessler, LCSW, CA | Psychotherapist

About Michael Kessler

Focus areas

Addiction / Substance Abuse

Coping Mechanism Development

Relapse Prevention Therapy

Autism Spectrum Disorder

LGBTQ+ Counseling

Self Esteem Issues

Chronic Relapse

Psychological Trauma

Clientele seen

Young adults (18-24)

Adults (25-64)

Individuals

Treatment approaches

Attachment-based

Dialectical (DBT)

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Gestalt

Compassion Focused

Humanistic

Identity

Gender

Male

Faith

Buddhist

Ethnicity

White

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know Michael Kessler

Hi there, I'm Michael! My name is Mike (they/he), I'm a genderqueer, transmasculine, pansexual therapist with 20 years of experience. I specialize in serving LGBTQIA+ people around exploring gender & attractions, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, dating & sex, coming out, family & relationship issues, body image & neurodivergence, among other things. My approach I believe you are the expert on you, not me! I take a collaborative, client-centered & humanistic approach to therapy. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you identify & change unhelpful thought patterns, develop skills to manage your emotions & somatic work to foster a mind-body approach. What are you waiting for?! Let's get started! My focus Are you questioning your gender identity &/or attractions? Are you struggling with low self-esteem or fear of not being accepted because of who you are? Are you fearful of coming out as a result of this &/or the current political climate? Therapy is meant to be a safe place to unpack things you're afraid to with family & friends. I'm here to help you. My communication style I have a warm, friendly communication style. I utilize active listening to help you explore the deepest & most hidden parts of your Self. I am honest & direct, so there will never be surprises in therapy. I am empathetic & compassionate because I know therapy can be difficult & painful work. And I use humor to heal & reintroduce joy into your life. My journey to mental healthcare My journey to becoming a therapist started as an androgynous, queer teen looking for acceptance. I benefited from therapy, but also found many well-meaning therapists who missed the mark at best & did harm at worst. I trained as a gender therapist at the Center for Special Problems, I'm a member of WPATH, I'm GEI certified & I attend trainings annually.

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Popular visit reasons

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Depression

Mood Swings

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Therapy

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Depression

Mood Swings

Education and background

Practice names

Rula Health - Central CA

Education and training

San Francisco State University, Master's in Social Work

NPI number

1790985042

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Michael Kessler?

Generally, Michael Kessler has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Michael Kessler's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is Michael Kessler accepting new patients?

Michael Kessler generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Michael Kessler's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does Michael Kessler accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Michael Kessler is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Michael Kessler online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with Michael Kessler using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does Michael Kessler work with?

Michael Kessler works with Rula Health - Central CA.

What are common reasons for patients to see Michael Kessler?

Michael Kessler frequently sees patients for Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Michael Kessler on their profile.