Michael Bensman,LCSW

For more than thirty years, I have been a practicing psychotherapist with a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan. My undergraduate studies concentrated on addiction and psychology. I work with my clients to create a comfortable and safe space for therapy. My therapeutic approach is to engage clients in clear, meaningful conversations that focus on the reasons that bring them to treatment and other problems that may be presented.

I consider it an honor to enter a client’s life in their time of need and to improve their outlook and overall quality of life.

I approach psychotherapy by using treatment strategies that are scientifically based and presenting them in clear and meaningful ways. I have an interactive, inclusive approach, as learning my client's needs is paramount in the therapeutic process.

I have worked with individuals, couples, and families throughout my career. I work with adults ages 18 years old and beyond. I specialize in helping clients manage mood, interpersonal difficulties, and personal problems that interfere with functioning in their daily life.

My communication style is sincere, honest, and direct. I practice with the approach that meets people where they are and challenge them to grow beyond their current state. At times this will appear to be difficult. However, it will be much more difficult to avoid the problem.

I became a therapist to help people in their time of need and ultimately aid in the process of becoming their best and true selves. I am able to create personal comfort and confidence to assist people in accepting and securing the change they are seeking. From the onset of my practice, I enjoy and honored being invited into other people's lives in their time of need and being part of the process of improvement.

The goals of therapy are to improve functioning, mood, and overall happiness, to learn to manage the symptoms of the condition, and to live a more fruitful life. This may include: speaking directly to friends, family, or co-workers to manage anxiety and depression, display a more confident disposition, and assist and empower clients to be their true selves.

The first session begins with addressing the presenting problem(s) that brings someone to therapy, forming a treatment plan that meets the client's needs, understanding the client's life experiences, and addressing the administrative aspects of treatment. Attention is placed on honoring the importance of the presenting reason(s) for coming for treatment and obtaining treatment strategies that can be immediately implemented.