- Strengths-based
- Goal-oriented
- Direct coaching
About Michael
Michael Hurd is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with decades of experience. He takes a practical, solution-focused approach that aims to get people moving toward clearer goals. Sessions emphasize current problems and concrete steps rather than long examinations of pathology.
He frames therapy as a partnership. He listens to what is happening now and uses a client's strengths to counter self-defeating behaviors. Background and childhood are brought in only when they help solve a present difficulty. The style is direct and goal-oriented, with clear attention to what works for the person.
With 36 years in practice, he has worked on common concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, and addictions. He also helps with relationship and intimacy issues, grief, parenting strains, work stress, and challenges like ADHD and codependency. Additional focus areas include body image, attachment issues, chronic illness, and major life changes.
Michael blends Client-Centered listening with practical techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused work. He also draws on Internal Family Systems ideas when helpful to map parts of a person's inner experience. The aim is to create short-term gains and sustainable skills for everyday life.
He has authored books and many articles over his career and frames his role as a guide and coach. People who prefer a pragmatic, strengths-based path and clear steps may find this style helpful.
How Michael's Approaches Work Online
Michael uses Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as core tools in his work. Client-Centered Therapy means listening closely and letting the client's goals guide the pace and focus; it helps people feel heard and supported while they sort things out. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on identifying thoughts and behaviors that keep problems going and replacing them with practical, testable changes to improve mood and functioning.Finding the right approach is part of the work together. He will discuss goals, try techniques, and adjust the plan based on what helps most. This is a collaborative process where the client and therapist decide what fits the person's needs and preferences.
Confirm current session options before booking so you know what formats are offered. Many people find online therapy useful because it can fit into work or caregiving schedules, reduce travel time, and make it easier to keep regular appointments. Online sessions can also allow shorter check-ins when needed or make it simpler to maintain continuity during life changes. The therapist frames sessions around real-world steps you can use between meetings.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
36+ years
Credentials
South Carolina, Florida, Maryland, Nevada, Virginia
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he help with?
He helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and intimacy issues, grief, parenting strains, codependency, ADHD, and related concerns.
What is his therapeutic style like?
He uses a solution-focused, goal-oriented approach that emphasizes current problems and practical steps. Sessions focus on strengths and reducing self-defeating behaviors.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He brings 36 years of professional experience, plus authorship of books and many articles across his career.
What credentials and location are listed?
He is an LCSW and practices from South Carolina. His credentials appear as LCSW.
In which languages can sessions be held?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
International clients are accepted, so people outside the United States can inquire about working together.
How are session costs handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist 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.