Kelly Hayes , LMSW

Kelly Hayes is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Michigan with more than 30 years of experience supporting children, families, and individuals facing a wide range of challenges. His background includes roles as a child and family counselor, Special Education Social Worker, Behavioral Intervention Specialist, and life coach, giving him a broad perspective on developmental, emotional, and relational needs.

Over the course of his career, Kelly has worked with people affected by early childhood trauma that can contribute to relationship difficulties, attachment and abandonment concerns, anxiety, depression, and feelings of fear or guilt. He has also addressed marital issues and problems related to substance use. His clinical experience extends to 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 that prioritizes positive, growth-oriented relationships. He values open, honest, and direct communication combined with active listening and encouragement to express thoughts and feelings in a non-threatening environment. Working collaboratively, he develops individualized plans designed to meet each person’s specific needs and goals.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Kelly Hayes draws on strength-based practices that focus on identifying and building a person’s existing resources and abilities. This approach helps clients facing relationship struggles, low self-esteem, or life transitions by highlighting practical strengths and fostering resilience.

He also applies behavioral intervention techniques rooted in observable strategies and skill-building. These methods are useful for managing behavioral challenges, emotional regulation, and patterns that contribute to family conflict or school-related difficulties.

Additionally, Kelly brings a family-centered perspective developed through years as a child and family counselor. This focus helps address relational patterns, communication issues, and parenting concerns by involving family dynamics in treatment planning.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Kelly Hayes works with each person to explore which methods align best with their needs, goals, and preferences, and he adapts plans as progress is made.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place by video calls, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging - allowing clients to access licensed professionals from home or other convenient locations. These options make it easier to fit care into busy schedules and maintain continuity of support across life changes.