Michael Avender

Welcome! My name is Mike. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and EMDR therapist. My goal is to cultivate a safe, inclusive space where we can work collaboratively to address your concerns and shift into a space of healing. I work to establish an authentic, nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship with my clients to support them in finding and experiencing meaningful, long-term change. I specialize in complex trauma and PTSD, LGBTQ+ topics, anxiety, and depression.

I utilize several modalities, specifically EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.

I employ Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy informed by an Internal Family Systems (IFS) perspective. The combination of these approaches allows folks to process traumatic and distressing experiences that often keep individuals trapped in embodied beliefs such as, “I’m not good enough,” “I’m not safe,” or “I don't matter."

Because therapy is not typically a place where you can find “quick fixes," our work will involve mindfully exploring both presenting issues as well as the history that informs them. I will work with you to establish realistic goals, providing a space to process thoughts and emotions while also furnishing you with strategies to use every day to help manage and alleviate symptoms. Clients often remark that I infuse my dynamic personality when appropriate to humanize therapy and build connection.