Therapist profile
Michael Mcbrearty, LCSW
LCSW focused on relationships and life stressors
Continue with MichaelAbout
- CBT
- Mindfulness
- Motivational interviewing
About Michael
Michael Mcbrearty is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 20 years of experience based in New Jersey. He works with adults on stress, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, addictions, LGBT concerns, family issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, eating concerns, self-esteem, career problems, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and coping with life changes.
He combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based methods in sessions. That means he helps people notice unhelpful thoughts, try small behavioral changes, and use present-moment awareness to manage strong feelings.
Michael also brings a client-centered stance to his work. He aims to listen without judgment and to treat people with respect while they talk through hard topics. Sessions are conversational and focused on practical steps the client can try between meetings.
He earned a Master of Social Work from Rutgers University and holds LCSW licenses in New York and New Jersey. He is also a credentialed alcohol and substance abuse counselor in New York. His background includes two decades helping people handle addiction, relationship strain, and caregiver stress.
People often come for help after a major life change or when everyday responsibilities feel heavy. Michael offers straightforward, steady support while people sort out next steps and adjust coping strategies. To begin, prospective clients follow the site process to match and schedule an initial appointment.
How sessions work
How Michael uses therapy methods in online sessions
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages noticing thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them. It helps people clarify what matters to them and take small actions toward those values. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at the link between thoughts, feelings, and behavior and uses simple exercises to change patterns that cause distress. Mindfulness-based work teaches basic attention and breathing practices to reduce reactivity and improve focus.Deciding which approach to use is collaborative. The therapist will listen to your goals and try methods that fit your situation. Over a few sessions you and he can see what helps and adjust the plan together.
Session formats are not specified here, so please confirm current online options before booking. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy routine, shorten commute time, and allow for quicker follow-up meetings when needed. Some formats work better for short check-ins while others suit longer weekly work; discuss practical scheduling preferences when you match and book.
Areas of focus
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
20+ years
Listed in
New Jersey, New York
Languages
English
Questions
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of issues does he help with?
He works with adults on stress, anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, relationship strain, family problems, trauma, intimacy-related issues, ADHD, and related concerns.
What is his therapeutic style like?
Sessions use a client-centered approach with CBT, mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing mixed in. Conversations are straightforward and focus on practical steps and coping skills.
How much experience does he have?
He has 20 years of experience as a clinician working with addiction, relationship issues, caregiver stress, and other life challenges.
What are his credentials and where is he located?
He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with licenses in New York and New Jersey, based in New Jersey.
Can I work with him if English is not my first language?
Sessions are offered in English.
Does he see international clients?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are sessions billed and what does it cost?
Cost varies with location. Sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I get started with a first session?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule your first session through the platform.
Details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. A license can be checked with the state board.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If anyone is in danger, use the crisis numbers.