Matthew Russell , LPC

Matthew Russell is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with seven years of experience working in addictions and mental health in Alabama. He has supported people facing depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, relationship difficulties, and substance use concerns, drawing on hands-on experience to address a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges.

Matthew's work is rooted in a client-centered philosophy, which means he meets each person where they are and emphasizes the client's own capacity for change. He also integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) when clients identify specific obstacles to their goals, using structured techniques to examine patterns of thought and behavior that can be adjusted to produce practical results. He prioritizes the client’s present day-to-day life, helping clients build skills and insight that apply to real-world situations.

Watching people learn, grow, and move toward more fulfilling lives is central to Matthew's practice. He believes that most people are capable of meaningful change and that counseling can be a collaborative process to help clients become who they want to be. As an LPC, Matthew combines empathy, practical tools, and a focus on the present to support sustained progress.

Client-Centered and CBT Approaches in Online Therapy

Matthew commonly uses Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in his work. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on the individual's perspective, offering empathic listening and support so the client can identify their own goals and solutions; this approach can be helpful for building self-esteem, exploring life purpose, and navigating relationship concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a practical, skills-based approach that helps people notice and adjust unhelpful thoughts and behaviors; it is often used for anxiety, depression, stress, and addiction-related challenges.

Determining the best approach is a collaborative process. Matthew works together with clients to clarify their needs, goals, and preferences, then tailors interventions so they fit each person’s daily life and priorities. He emphasizes working in the present to create usable strategies for change.

Online therapy offers flexibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, making it easier to fit counseling into busy schedules and varied routines. These options allow clients to connect from different settings and maintain continuity of care while accessing the therapeutic approaches that suit them best.