Kelly Hayes , LMSW

Kelly Hayes is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan with over 30 years of experience supporting children, families, and adults through a range of life challenges. He has practiced as a child and family counselor, Special Education Social Worker, Behavioral Intervention Specialist, and life coach, bringing a broad perspective to work with clients across developmental, emotional, and relational concerns.

His background includes helping people affected by early childhood trauma that may lead to relationship difficulties, abandonment and attachment concerns, anxiety, depression, and feelings of fear or guilt. He has also addressed marital issues and substance use, and has substantial experience working with OCD, AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental delays, emotional impairments, learning-related behavioral challenges, school phobias, and severe aggression.

Kelly emphasizes a strength-based approach to therapy, focusing on building positive relationships and fostering resilience. He values open, honest, and direct communication, using active listening and encouragement to help clients express thoughts and feelings in a non-threatening environment. Together with each client he develops an individualized plan tailored to specific needs and goals. Kelly holds the LMSW credential, which indicates a Licensed Master Social Worker, a master-level social work license in Michigan.

Evidence-Based Approaches and Accessible Online Care

Kelly uses strength-based techniques that focus on identifying and building personal strengths to improve self-esteem and coping skills; this approach supports work on self worth, recovery from trauma, and challenges related to motivation. He also applies family-centered methods that examine patterns and roles within family systems to address relationship dynamics, parenting concerns, and marital issues. In addition, his background as a Behavioral Intervention Specialist informs practical behavioral interventions that aim to reduce challenging behaviors and teach alternative skills for managing anger, aggression, and attention or developmental concerns.

Choosing the right approach is collaborative. Kelly works with each person to assess needs, goals, and preferences, then adapts methods over time so the treatment plan fits the individual and family. He emphasizes partnership in setting objectives and tracking progress.

Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These formats help make therapy more accessible for those balancing work, family, or mobility constraints and allow licensed professionals to provide consistent support from a distance.