- Goal oriented
- Skills based
- Values focused
About Eric
Eric McLaughlin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California who helps people manage stress, anxiety, addiction concerns, LGBTQ issues, family struggles, and trauma. He focuses on practical steps so people know what to expect in sessions and how progress will be measured. Eric aims to make therapy straightforward and goal oriented from the start.
He uses a mix of evidence-informed methods to tailor work to each person. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to spot patterns of thinking and behavior and to try small, concrete changes. Attachment-based ideas help address long-standing patterns that show up in close relationships. Mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) tools are woven in to build present-moment skills and clarity about values.
Eric has six years of professional experience and holds the LCSW credential. His background includes work with substance use and trauma and supporting people navigating sexuality and identity concerns. He emphasizes clear goals and practical steps rather than open-ended discussion alone.
Sessions typically focus on what the person wants to change and the barriers that get in the way. Problem-solving, motivational interviewing techniques, and CBT exercises are common parts of the work. The aim is steady, measurable progress toward the goals you set together.
People can expect a direct, collaborative approach that balances empathy with concrete tools. If you want help untangling codependent patterns, improving communication, or reducing anxiety and substance-related harms, he offers a practical, skills-based path forward.
How his approaches fit into online work
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters to them and take small steps toward those values while accepting uncomfortable feelings. It can be useful for anxiety, motivation problems, and patterns like codependency. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and practicing new, more helpful responses; it is often used for anxiety, trauma responses, and addiction-related patterns. Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how early relationship patterns shape current connections and communication, which can help with relationship strain and family-related issues.Figuring out which approach to use is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with the client about goals and preferences, then try methods that fit those aims. Changes are tested in small steps and adjusted based on what helps most in day-to-day life.
Confirm current session options before booking since formats are not specified here. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Some formats are better for working through structured CBT exercises, while others allow longer conversations about attachment and values. Discussing format and scheduling early helps align therapy with routines and goals.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
6+ years
Credentials
California
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does this therapist support?
He supports stress, anxiety, addictions, LGBTQ concerns, family issues, and trauma and abuse, along with related areas such as codependency, attachment issues, and substance use.
What is his therapeutic style?
The approach is practical and goal oriented, combining brief problem solving with exercises from cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing.
How long has he practiced?
He has six years of professional experience working with substance use, trauma, and related concerns.
What credential does he hold and where is he based?
He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, licensed in California.
Which languages are available for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
He is not currently accepting international clients.
How are session costs handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
What is the first step to start therapy?
Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist's availability.
Profile details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. Credential and registration rules differ between the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia.