What patients are saying
Overall rating
4.88
Average wait time
4.92
Bedside manner
4.92
“Michael was engaging, extremely pointed and wasted no time in focusing on our issues. It was a bit too much too quickly - without any “getting to know you” first. But we liked his directness and his perspective/suggestions.”
Initials hiddenNovember 7, 2025Video visit
“As most couples experience, communication can become a problem in a relationship. We met with Michael and right off the bat he gave us some great advice. It has been a week and it has been lovely! We will be doing dinner and counseling every week! It is always nice to talk to someone outside of your everyday life. Michael was very helpful. ”
Initials hiddenOctober 23, 2025Video visit
About Michael Sands
Clientele seen
Adults (25-64)
Couples
Seniors (65+)
Individuals
Treatment approaches
Coaching
Multicultural
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)
Family / Marital
Identity
Gender
MaleLanguages spoken
English
Getting to know Michael Sands
A client once told me, “You really listen well.” The comment caught me off guard—I believed I was listening as any therapist would. Over time, however, I came to understand that while deep listening and empathy are essential, they are not enough on their own. Meaningful change happens when clients begin to see the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors—and how these patterns shape their real-life challenges.
In my work, I help clients make sense of these connections as they navigate relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression and mood fluctuations, grief, anger, life transitions, stress, and career challenges. I am especially committed to working with clients from culturally, ethnically, and sexually diverse backgrounds, creating a space where each person’s identity and lived experience are understood and respected.
As a couples counselor, I support partners in finding their way back to each other—especially during the moments that feel stuck, tense, or painful. My work focuses on helping couples navigate conflict with greater understanding, strengthen emotional and physical closeness, and build healthier patterns of communication and compromise that truly work for both people.
Together, we address the real-life challenges that can strain a relationship, including sex and intimacy, money, infidelity, jealousy, household responsibilities, parenting, and the impact of social media. My approach is practical, compassionate, and grounded in helping couples create lasting change—not just temporary fixes. I’m also the co-author of "Mike & Margareth's No-Nonsense Guide for Couples," available on Amazon.
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
Emblem Health
UnitedHealthcare
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Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
- Sliding scale: Offers lower out-of-pocket fees on an individual basis, typically based on your ability to pay
- Files your insurance claim: You pay the session fee upfront and the provider files the claim for you, so you can get reimbursed directly without worrying about the paperwork
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Columbia University, Master's in Social Work
NPI number
1861557175
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.88
Wait time
4.92
Bedside manner
4.92
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
16 reviews
Most relevant
Michael was engaging, extremely pointed and wasted no time in focusing on our issues. It was a bit too much too quickly - without any “getting to know you” first. But we liked his directness and his perspective/suggestions.
November 7, 2025Initials hiddenVideo visit
As most couples experience, communication can become a problem in a relationship. We met with Michael and right off the bat he gave us some great advice. It has been a week and it has been lovely! We will be doing dinner and counseling every week! It is always nice to talk to someone outside of your everyday life. Michael was very helpful.
October 23, 2025Initials hiddenVideo visit
Tell it how it is straight to the point
?
September 29, 2025Travis B.Verified patientVideo visit
I was very impressed with my visit with Michael Sands. He is very understanding, listens to your needs and is very easy to talk to. I would highly recommend Mr. Sands and Zocdoc to my friends.
September 29, 2025Margaret W.Verified patientVideo visit
Michael responded to my call about our appointment very quickly. We did resolve the scheduling misunderstanding and he offered me his first available appointment.
Once we introduced ourselves, he was prepared to discuss my needs, and we began to work. This was my first ever interview with a therapist. He put me at ease.
August 18, 2025Matthew S.Verified patientVideo visit
Less than 3 months agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
Less than 6 months agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
November 25, 2025Christopher S.Verified patientVideo visit
Less than 6 months agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
October 14, 2025Initials hiddenVideo visit
Less than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
September 2, 2025Carrie D.Verified patientVideo visit
August 23, 2025John O.Verified patientVideo visit
August 23, 2025Shereen K.Verified patientVideo visit
Less than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
Less than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
How soon can I make an appointment with Michael Sands?
Generally, Michael Sands has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Michael Sands's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Michael Sands accepting new patients?
Michael Sands generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Michael Sands's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Michael Sands accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Michael Sands is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Michael Sands online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Michael Sands using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Michael Sands work with?
Michael Sands works with Michael Sands, MBA, LCSW-R.
What are common reasons for patients to see Michael Sands?
Michael Sands frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Michael Sands on their profile.
What languages does Michael Sands speak?
Michael Sands speaks English.
How do patients rate Michael Sands in reviews?
16 patients have reviewed Michael Sands. The overall rating for this doctor is 4.88/5. They have a 4.92/5 rating for bedside manner and a 4.92/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.