Steven Murray , LMSW

Steven Murray brings five decades of experience in mental health care, combining broad clinical training with a practical, encouraging style. He holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Detroit and an LMSW, which stands for Licensed Master Social Worker, and he is licensed to practice in Michigan. Over his long career he has worked in hospitals, clinics, group homes, and schools, offering therapy to people of all ages and diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and addressing a wide range of concerns including stress reactions, adjustment to life changes, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, intellectual challenges, forensic issues, and serious chronic mental illness.

His clinical training spans psychodynamic methods, behavior modification, and cognitive behavioral therapy - with CBT serving as his primary orientation while drawing on other perspectives as needed. He approaches therapy as a collaborative process, acting as a coach and cheerleader to provide support, encouragement, fresh perspectives, and direction when appropriate. He emphasizes progress toward goals chosen by the individual and fosters a nonjudgmental environment where people can pursue change without shame.

Steven values a positive sense of humor as a tool for perspective and wellbeing and has a personal interest in science and technology, which support his independence as a person who is blind. He holds an undergraduate degree in Instrumental Music from Central Michigan University and encourages music, nature walks, and reading as part of a healthy lifestyle. He also maintains an active interest in current events and brings that breadth of experience to his clinical work.

Approaches That Translate Well to Online Therapy

Steven Murray draws primarily on cognitive behavioral therapy and attachment-based therapy when working with clients online. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, practical approach that helps people identify unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and develop skills to manage symptoms like anxiety, depression, and sleeping problems. Attachment-based therapy focuses on how early relationships shape present-day patterns with others and can be helpful for relationship, intimacy, and attachment-related concerns. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is another approach he may use - it emphasizes accepting difficult feelings while committing to actions that align with personal values, which can aid coping with stress, trauma, and life changes.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Steven collaborates with each person to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adapting techniques over time to support progress. That collaborative stance helps ensure treatment stays relevant and practical.

Online therapy with a licensed professional offers flexibility - sessions can occur by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to fit varied schedules and mobility needs. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care, access support from home, and integrate therapeutic work into daily life with fewer logistical barriers.