Michelle Castellani , LCSW

Michelle Castellani has spent much of her career working in healthcare settings, where she developed strong skills in crisis intervention and helping people adjust to new illnesses and life changes. Over time she translated that experience into a private practice she has maintained since 2007, focusing on a range of concerns including anxiety disorders - such as panic attacks, social anxiety, and specific phobias - as well as depression and bipolar disorder, eating disorders, relationship struggles, anger, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and couples counseling.

She holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a clinical social work license that enables independent practice. Her training includes a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course, and she integrates mindfulness and meditation practices when they fit a client's needs. She commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT - to examine how thoughts influence feelings and behavior, and combines that with a strengths perspective that identifies and builds on the abilities clients already possess. Michelle emphasizes careful listening and clear assessment so interventions address the core issue, and she supports people through change when they are ready to engage in that process.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Michelle Castellani often uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a practical approach that helps people identify and shift unhelpful thinking patterns so feelings and behaviors can change; this is commonly applied to anxiety, mood concerns, and many everyday stressors. She also incorporates Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction techniques learned through formal training, teaching simple attention and breathing practices that can reduce reactivity and support coping with difficult emotions. Additionally, she works from a strengths perspective that highlights existing skills and resources a person can use to address current challenges.

Finding the right combination of methods is part of the therapeutic process, and Michelle approaches that collaboratively, working with each person to select techniques that match their goals, preferences, and life circumstances. She emphasizes listening first and then tailoring interventions accordingly.

Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, allowing clients to choose the format that fits their schedule and communication style. Licensed professionals can adapt these evidence-based techniques to remote sessions, making it easier to maintain continuity of care during busy or transitional periods.