Introduction to Michael's work

Michael's focus is to move the profession of psychotherapy away from the medical model where the focus is on pathology (identifying the problem within or part of the person) along with the treatment of symptoms. In a non-pathologizing approach to counselling, the person is never the problem, the problem is the problem. But it is so much more than this. It removes the moralization of the therapist and of the modalities or treatments that the therapist uses as part of the counselling process. It also takes that stance that our cognition and emotional states are equal in all ways. What this means is that emotions / feelings are not moralized. They are neither 'good' or 'bad', 'right' or 'wrong'. The therapeutic language and typical stance of psychotherapy is that one's emotions are problematic, that they need to be minimized, or controlled in some way. A non-pathologizing approach embraces the hard, loud, and strong emotions, providing space for them to be languaged. One does not need to 'control' their emotions before work can begin, if Anger shows up, Michael will welcome Anger into the space and with curiosity seek to hear what Anger has to say. This languaging of one's unlanguaged experiences is a critical component of the non-pathologizing approach. To learn more please do some online searches or use your favourite AI tool to understand more of what a non-pathologizing approach to counselling means. Feel free to email Michael with your questions as well. 

Innovative Therapeutic Experience

Personalized Session Letters

Elevate your counselling journey with his signature post-session letters. This groundbreaking approach, refined over 15 years and thousands of client interactions, doubles the impact of each session. By providing immediate access to your therapeutic narrative, you will be empowered to actively engage in your growth process between appointments.

Non-Pathologizing Expertise

Experience a revolutionary perspective where you are never the problem - the problem is the problem. Michael's textbook, "Non-Pathologizing Approach To Counselling," available on Amazon, has established Michael as a thought leader in this field. He has trained hundreds of therapists in this empowering methodology, ensuring you receive cutting-edge care.

Maximized Session Value

Michael respects your time and investment:

• Full 60-minute sessions
• 5-minute wind-down alert
• Pre-session paperwork completion

This streamlined process allows Michael to focus entirely on addressing your concerns from the moment you step into his office.

His Unique Value Proposition

1. Enhanced Therapeutic Impact: His post-session letters effectively provide the value of two sessions in one (academic studies has this range from 2-4 sessions).
2. Empowering Perspective: His non-pathologizing approach shifts the focus from personal deficits to external challenges.
3. Optimized Time Management: Every minute of your session is dedicated to your growth and healing.

By choosing Michael's services, you're not just getting therapy - you're investing in a transformative experience backed by innovation, expertise, and a commitment to your personal growth.

Clients have often provided feedback that Michael's comprehensive mindful approach to therapy has been incredibly helpful and clients speak of increased freedom and joy they are now experiencing in their lives. Michael provides confidential online video sessions across Canada (or worldwide) or in person sessions within Kelowna, BC. Click here to book an online video session directly.  

My new textbook is now available! 

Michael is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist (RMFT) as well as a Certified Supervisor (RMFT-S) with The Canadian Association for Couple and Family Therapy (CACFT). 

Michael is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and an Approved Clinical Supervisor (RCC-ACS) with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). 

Michael is a Certified Professional Counsellor (CPC) and a Certified Supervisor (CPCS) with the Professional Association of Christian Counsellors and Psychotherapists (PACCP). 

Michael is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) and a Certified Supervisor (CCC-S) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).

Michael has a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counselling from Briercrest Seminary. He has counselled professionally since 2009, served concurrently as an executive for a Regina non-profit, and returned home to the Okanagan in 2019. Michael lives in Kelowna with is wife of thirty years and is in private practice. 

To explore how professional counselling with Michael can help you, contact Michael today. 

Call/text: 250-215-4155

email: [email protected]