- Stress and anxiety
- Mood disorders
- Relationship issues
About Michele
Michele Bussell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with six years of clinical experience. She has worked in crisis residential programs, school-based counseling, adult drug court substance programs, and behavioral health centers. Michele helps people with stress, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship concerns, self-esteem, and motivation.
She frames people as experts in their own lives and works from that starting point. Michele asks about what a person has tried, what has helped before, and what feels possible now. Conversations are direct and practical, aimed at clarifying feelings and breaking larger problems into manageable steps.
Her past roles exposed her to high-intensity situations and a wide range of needs. That includes supporting people dealing with bipolar disorder, depression, panic, post-traumatic stress, and disruptive mood dysregulation concerns. She also addresses issues like abandonment, attachment struggles, control issues, and the emotional effects of divorce and separation.
Michele talks with people about shame, guilt, and self-worth in plain terms. She encourages honest discussion without judgment and helps people notice where old patterns limit present choices. Sessions often cover coping skills, ways to rebuild confidence, and practical strategies for everyday stress.
If someone is new to therapy she guides the first steps, explains what to expect, and focuses on steady progress. Michele aims to make sessions useful and understandable so people can try small changes between meetings.
Evidence-based approaches and online sessions
Many of Michele's clinical settings rely on evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on practical skills and symptom management. One common approach is skills-based work that teaches coping strategies for anxiety, panic, and mood swings; this helps with symptom reduction and day-to-day functioning. Another frequent focus is relationship- and attachment-informed conversation that looks at how early patterns affect current connections and self-worth, which can be useful for guilt, shame, and interpersonal conflict.Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Michele works with each person to identify what fits their needs, goals, and preferences, and adjusts the way she works as those needs change. She explains options in plain language and helps plan a pathway that makes sense to the client.
The biography does not list specific online formats, so confirm the available session types before booking. Online options can make it easier to fit therapy around work, school, or caregiving by removing travel time and allowing sessions from different locations. Phone or video sessions can also support shorter check-ins or longer therapeutic work without needing to be on site. Ask about the session formats offered when you complete the matching questionnaire so you can pick what suits your routine.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Experience
6+ years
Listed in
California
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does she work with?
She works with stress, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, self-esteem, and motivation, and also addresses related areas like guilt and shame.
How would she describe her approach in sessions?
Her approach treats the client as the expert on their life and focuses on clear, practical steps. Conversations aim to name feelings and identify small changes to try between sessions.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has six years of professional experience working in crisis residential treatment, school-based counseling, adult drug court substance programs, and behavioral health centers.
What are her credentials and where is she based?
She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) licensed in California and provides services from that state.
Does she work in languages other than English or with international clients?
Sessions are offered in English, and she does accept international clients.
What session formats does she offer?
The original biography does not list specific session formats. Please confirm current session options before booking.
How are fees handled?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, use the crisis numbers.