Michelle Castellani , LCSW

Michelle Castellani is a clinical social worker who holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) and the Licensed Clinical Social Worker credential (LCSW). The LCSW is a clinical license in social work that allows her to practice independently in a private setting. With 12 years of professional experience and a private practice established in 2007, she has spent a significant portion of her career working in healthcare where she developed crisis intervention and adjustment coping skills to support people facing new illnesses and related life changes.

In private practice Michelle treats a range of concerns, including anxiety disorders such as panic attacks, social anxiety, and phobias, as well as depression and bipolar disorder, eating disorders, relationship struggles, anger, obsessive-compulsive issues, and couples counseling. Her broader specialties include stress, family and parenting challenges, grief, addictions, LGBT concerns, intimacy-related issues, sleep difficulties, self-esteem and career concerns, and trauma and abuse.

She draws on evidence-based methods including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques learned through a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course, combined with a strengths perspective that identifies and builds on existing abilities. Michelle emphasizes careful listening and clear assessment so that interventions target the actual problem. She believes people can embrace change when they are ready and she supports them through that journey.

Evidence-based approaches and flexible online sessions

Michelle Castellani uses cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients identify how thoughts influence feelings and behaviors; this practical, structured approach is often used for anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive concerns, and many stress-related issues. She also incorporates mindfulness practices learned through a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course - simple attention and breathing techniques that can help people manage stress, ground themselves in the present moment, and reduce reactivity. In addition she applies a strengths perspective that focuses on identifying and building existing skills and resources to tackle current challenges and enhance resilience.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Michelle works collaboratively with each person to assess needs, set goals, and choose techniques that fit their situation and preferences, adjusting methods over time as progress unfolds.

Online therapy options - including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging - make it easier to access care from home or on the go. These formats offer scheduling flexibility, continuity of treatment during busy periods, and opportunities to work with a licensed professional in ways that match each client’s lifestyle and comfort level.