Michael Gusack, LPC, LMHC

Michael Gusack is a licensed counselor who helps people facing chronic illness, anxiety, and life transitions. He aims to reduce frustration and disappointment so clients can live with more confidence and freedom. Michael uses a relaxed, approachable manner to guide sessions and focuses on practical steps people can use right away.

With 41 years in practice and credentials as an LPC and LMHC, he draws on long experience to shape treatment that fits each person. He is a published author and describes his style as solution oriented and eye opening. Sessions emphasize developing real skills rather than only talking about problems.

Michael often uses cognitive behavioral methods to identify unhelpful patterns and to build new habits. He also works with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and client-centered techniques to help people clarify values and take manageable action toward them. EMDR and hypnotherapy are among other approaches he brings when appropriate.

People who come for help with grief, relationship strains, sleep problems, addiction, or major life changes will find direct, practical guidance. He also lists support for compassion fatigue, bipolar concerns, and trauma-related issues among his focus areas. The goal is to leave sessions with usable strategies and clearer next steps.

Michael’s work pays attention to physical illness, aging, and long-term conditions as they affect mood and daily life. He helps clients balance symptom management with pursuing meaningful activities. The process is collaborative and paced to match each person’s needs.

How Michael’s approaches translate to online work

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps people notice thoughts and feelings without getting stuck, then take small steps toward what matters. It is often used for anxiety, chronic illness adjustments, and motivation to change. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on spotting unhelpful thinking and trying different behaviors to change mood and function; it is practical for depression, panic, and sleep issues. EMDR is a method used to reduce the intensity of traumatic memories and related symptoms when those memories are a central problem.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with each person about goals, preferences, and what feels most useful. Together they decide which methods to try and adjust plans over time based on what helps.

The biography does not list specific online session formats, so confirm current options before booking. In general, online work can make scheduling easier and help people fit sessions into busy days. It can shorten travel time, allow quicker check-ins between in-person visits, and let some people engage from quieter surroundings or while managing medical routines. Licensed professionals adapt ACT, CBT, and EMDR techniques for distance work so sessions remain focused on practical changes and skills.