Michael Fenske, Licensed Psychologist

I work with individuals from late adolescence through middle adulthood, with a special focus on college-aged individuals and those navigating the challenges of young adulthood. Many of my clients come to therapy struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or difficulty connecting with others socially or emotionally. Some feel stuck, unmotivated, or overwhelmed by stress. Others are navigating relationship issues or life transitions and want support in understanding their patterns and moving toward healthier connections. My therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative, and goal-oriented. I draw from a range of evidence-based methods—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy—to meet each client’s unique needs. I often find CBT especially helpful in addressing anxiety, depression, and social skills by offering clear, practical tools for change. Together, we’ll work to build insight, strengthen hope, and create meaningful goals that support lasting growth and emotional well-being.

I specialize in working with college students, young adults, and older teens, as well as individuals in middle adulthood. I currently offer virtual therapy appointments for clients located in California, Hawai‘i, and New York on Saturday mornings (8am–12pm PT, 5am–9am HT, 11am–3pm ET), and select weekday evenings around 5:30pm PT (2:30pm HT, 8:30pm ET). This flexible schedule is ideal for students and working professionals balancing busy weekday demands. I focus on treating anxiety, depression, social skills challenges, low self-esteem, OCD, and relationship concerns. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, unmotivated, or unsure of how to move forward in their personal or professional lives. My approach is collaborative and grounded in evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I work with clients to build insight, shift patterns, and create meaningful, lasting emotional and relational growth. I’m in-network with Aetna and several Aetna administrators, and I provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement. Free 15-minute consultations are available, and sliding scale options may be offered based on need.

My role as a therapist is to support clients in finding hope, clarity, and direction. I begin by helping clients believe that meaningful change is possible. Together, we explore the patterns, thoughts, emotions, and life circumstances that may be causing distress. From there, we identify goals that promote healing, growth, and greater self-worth?whether it?s addressing current challenges or building a life that feels more fulfilling and aligned.