Michael Wood LPCC, MA

Grief is a natural and universal experience not only for humans but for other mammals as well. Grief can be extremely intense following the loss of an important person. This is a natural and potentially transformative process. I will be with you in the intensity and the confusion. This process can manifest in a variety of ways - intense sadness, anger, bitterness, depression, guilt, peace, relief, joy, compassion, numbness, confusion, and physical symptoms. Or, perhaps we are not grieving a

Men and boys are too often expected to not show or feel vulnerable emotions. Instead, we are expected to power through, to compete, and be tough. Over years, this has the effect of cutting us off from the sensitive parts of ourselves that are capable of feeling deep connection with ourselves and others. It is this love, compassion, and belonging that most of us want most in life. I help men to become aware of the ways they've been taught to cut themselves off from these beautiful qualities.

Low self-esteem is at the heart of many difficulties including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and abuse. We all have an inner critic, and for many of us, this inner voice is constant, unrelenting, and mean. When we are believing what our inner critic is telling us, we have low self esteem, also known as shame. I help you to become aware of this inner critic, to befriend it, and guide you along the path towards self love.

IFS views the mind as containing many sub-personalities or "parts." These parts, formed by life experiences, interact internally like family dynamics. IFS helps clients identify and understand their parts, especially those carrying burdens or using extreme protective strategies. By fostering self-leadership and facilitating dialogue between parts, IFS promotes inner harmony and healing. This compassionate approach effectively treats trauma, anxiety, and depression.

Somatic therapy integrates body awareness with psychological healing. It recognizes that our bodies hold valuable information about our experiences and emotions. Through gentle techniques, clients explore physical sensations, movements, and postures to access deeper self-understanding. By fostering present-moment awareness and using the body as a resource, this approach facilitates healing from trauma, personal growth, and a more harmonious mind-body relationship.

Mindfulness-based therapy integrates meditation practices with modern psychology. It teaches clients to cultivate present-moment awareness, observing thoughts and feelings without judgment. This approach helps manage stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain by reducing reactivity and enhancing emotional regulation. By fostering acceptance and curiosity, it empowers clients to respond to challenges with greater clarity and compassion, promoting overall well-being and resilience.