Sheet 1
- Attachment-based work
- Client-centered sessions
- Emotion-focused tools
About Michael
LCSW-C Michael Misterka has 15 years of clinical experience in Maryland. He focuses on stress, anxiety, relationship and family concerns, parenting, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy issues, self-esteem, career questions, depression, ADHD, and coping with life changes. He uses attachment-based, client-centered, emotionally-focused, motivational interviewing and psychodynamic approaches.
Michael frames therapy around practical change. He asks people what they want to work on and helps them set goals. Sessions are driven by the client’s priorities rather than a fixed protocol. Conversations aim to identify small, concrete steps that can alter day-to-day patterns.
His style blends reflective listening with direct feedback. He draws on attachment-based ideas to look at how past relationships shape current reactions. He uses elements of emotionally-focused work to help name feelings and improve communication in close relationships. Motivational interviewing is part of his approach when people want help moving past reluctance or ambivalence.
Michael also integrates psychodynamic perspectives to trace recurring patterns back to family of origin issues. That can be useful for people wrestling with forgiveness, guilt, or long-term relationship patterns. He addresses practical problems like blended family issues, fatherhood concerns, communication breakdowns, and substance use with straightforward strategies.
Clients who contact him will complete an initial matching process and then schedule a first session. The process is collaborative: goals get reviewed and adjusted as progress is made. He asks people to be clear about what changes they want and works alongside them toward those goals.
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How his approaches translate to online work
Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how early bonds influence current relationships. Online sessions can use this lens to map patterns in relationships and to practice new ways of connecting. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and reflecting the client's concerns. In an online session this often means time spent clarifying goals, naming priorities, and shaping small behavioral steps that fit daily life. Emotionally-Focused Therapy helps people identify and express underlying emotions and improve communication. Delivered remotely, it can guide partners or individuals through structured conversations and emotion naming exercises. Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist collaborates with each person to decide which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. That choice can be adjusted as progress is reviewed. Confirm the session formats before booking, as formats are not listed here. Many people find remote sessions easier to fit into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. Others appreciate not being on camera for some sessions or choosing a quieter time to talk. These practical benefits help therapy fit into everyday life while the therapist and client work through goals together.Sheet 3
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
15+ years
Listed in
Maryland
Languages
English
Sheet 4
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does he address?
He supports people coping with stress, anxiety, relationship and family issues, parenting, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, self-esteem, career questions, depression, ADHD, and life changes.
What methods does he use in sessions?
He blends attachment-based therapy, client-centered work, emotionally-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic approaches to match client goals and needs.
How much experience does he have?
He has 15 years of experience in counseling practice working with a range of issues including relationship conflict, trauma, parenting, and substance-related family problems.
What credential does he hold and where is he located?
He is licensed as an LCSW-C in Maryland and practices there.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are sessions billed?
Cost varies by location; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin the process?
Choose the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule your first session through the platform.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the urgent help numbers.