As a licensed therapist in California since 2000, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My professional focus centers on trauma recovery, family dynamics, and empowering individuals through difficult transitions. I have extensive expertise in addressing workplace stress, caregiver burnout, women's issues, and healing from interpersonal trauma.
My therapeutic approach is compassionate and strength-based, designed to help clients rebuild resilience and self-esteem. I understand the intricate emotional landscapes of first responders, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals managing significant life stressors. Whether you're working through family conflicts, processing past trauma, or seeking support during challenging life stages, I'm committed to creating a supportive and transformative therapeutic environment.
My practice honors each person's unique journey, offering personalized guidance that respects individual experiences and promotes meaningful healing and personal growth.
Additional areas of focus: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship issues, Grief, Sleeping disorders, Anger management, Depression, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, Caregiver issues and stress, Codependency, Domestic violence, Family problems, First responder issues, Hospice and end-of-life counseling, Infidelity, Post-traumatic stress, Sexual assault and abuse, Women's issues, Workplace issues
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
CA LMFT 37351
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Michelle Carstensen. 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.
Michelle is incredible!
Written on Feb 02, 2026 after therapy with Michelle for 1 year and 11 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, grief, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, career difficulties, coping with life changes, coaching, and adhd
Michelle has been an incredible resource and source of support for my husband and I as we navigate couples therapy. She is patient, kind, a great listener, and truly understands what we are working on. She provides meaningful feedback and insight that helps us make progress in our meeting our goals so that we can live into the best future as possible. She is absolutely wonderful and I’m so grateful we are able to work with her.
Written on Jan 09, 2026 after therapy with Michelle for 7 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, grief, intimacy-related issues, parenting issues, self esteem, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue
I feel that Michelle listens to my concerns and responds with great insight on my issues.
Written on Jan 08, 2026 after therapy with Michelle for 2 years and 2 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, sleeping disorders, and coping with life changes
Michelle - is a fantastic, experienced, focused therapist that will work with you to achieve your goals.
Written on Nov 17, 2025 after therapy with Michelle for 2 years and 2 months on issues concerning depression, trauma and abuse, grief, sleeping disorders, parenting issues, coping with life changes, and adhd
Great Therapist
Written on Jun 20, 2025 after therapy with Michelle for 2 weeks on issues concerning trauma and abuse, and career difficulties
Michelle is very kind and listens
Written on Dec 05, 2024 after therapy with Michelle for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, sleeping disorders, self esteem, compassion fatigue, and adhd