I've spent over a decade working in behavioral health — as a BHT, case manager, and substance abuse counselor — before becoming a licensed therapist. That background means I understand what it actually looks like when someone is struggling, not just what it looks like on paper.
I work with adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem challenges. My approach is direct and collaborative. I'm not here to just listen and nod — I'm here to help you understand what's driving your patterns and actually do something about it. That means honest conversations, real feedback, and work that continues outside the session.
If you've tried therapy before and felt like something was missing, or if you're skeptical it can work for you, that's exactly the kind of client I tend to connect with best.
Additional areas of focus: Abandonment, Attachment issues, Codependency, Communication problems, Control issues, Dissociation, Family of origin issues, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Impulsivity, Isolation / loneliness, Mood disorders, Post-traumatic stress, Self-love, Sexual assault and abuse, Social anxiety and phobia, Young adult issues
CA LPCC 22226
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Michael Gallese. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Michael listened and understood the issues I was facing; even when I truly didn’t know myself. He thinks out of the box and tackles topics that would make anyone feel uncomfortable, with ease and with a suaveness that made me feel comfortable and less awkward about my situation. He’s straight to the point. Highly recommended for those issues that are hard to talk about or even accept.
Written on Jun 15, 2026 after therapy with Michael for 2 months on issues concerning depression, addictions, lgbt, relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, sleeping disorders, self esteem, and compassion fatigue
Michael is compassionate but also a straight talker. He doesn't sugarcoat his observations. I have only had two sessions with him so far but already he is helping me see how my behaviors in trying to save my son from his addiction, have actually been hurting my son and me. I look forward to working with him to help me set up better boundaries around my son and his addiction and to help me understand and conquer some of my bad emotional habits.
Written on Jun 10, 2026 after therapy with Michael for 1 month on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, parenting issues, self esteem, and compassion fatigue
Great job Michael!
Written on Apr 30, 2026 after therapy with Michael for 2 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues, and intimacy-related issues