- Strengths focused
- Practical skill work
- Values driven
About Michael
Michael Knapik is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) practicing in Vermont. He brings 18 years of clinical experience and a background in journalism to his work. Michael emphasizes a strength-based, person-centered approach that helps clients notice what already works in their lives and build from there.
He uses a mix of practical methods drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy to address common problems like anxiety, depression, and sleep struggles. Sessions often include simple skills for managing stress, pacing day-to-day activities, and shifting unhelpful thinking. Michael also draws on dialectical behavior therapy tools when emotions feel overwhelming.
Michael has long experience supporting people facing addiction, grief and loss, and end-of-life concerns, informed in part by many years volunteering with hospice. He also helps with relationship strain, caregiving stress, and challenges such as guilt, shame, and isolation. Sleeping and rest issues are among the concerns he addresses alongside mood and impulse-related problems.
In sessions he favors clear, straightforward language and collaborative planning. People can expect concrete strategies, short-term skill work, and exploration of values and meaning when that feels useful. Michael encourages small moments of self-compassion and steady progress rather than quick fixes.
To begin, prospective clients complete a brief matching questionnaire and then schedule according to the listed process. Michael practices in Vermont and conducts work in English.
How Michael Uses ACT, CBT, and Client-Centered Work Online
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on helping people notice what matters to them and take small steps toward those values, even when difficult thoughts or feelings show up. It can be helpful for chronic worry, sleep struggles, and life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) centers on identifying patterns of thinking and behavior that keep problems going, then practicing concrete techniques to change them; it often helps with anxiety, panic, mood, and sleep routines. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes a respectful, nonjudgmental relationship where the therapist listens closely and follows the client's lead to build insight and motivation.Choosing the right approach is part of the work itself. Michael will talk with the client about goals, current struggles, and personal preferences, then together they decide which methods to try. That collaborative process may include mixing approaches as needed rather than sticking to one method.
If you are considering online therapy, confirm the session formats before booking so you know what options are offered. Online work can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy week, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Many people find virtual sessions convenient for practicing skills between meetings and for keeping momentum when life gets hectic. Licensed professionals adapt exercises and homework so progress continues across sessions.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
18+ years
Credentials
Virginia, Vermont
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he help with?
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, and sleeping problems among other concerns. He also supports people with addiction, grief, caregiver stress, and relationship or intimacy-related issues.
What is his therapeutic style like?
Michael uses a person-centered, strengths-based style and combines skill teaching with values work. Expect collaborative sessions that include practical tools and talk about what matters to you.
How much experience does he have?
He has 18 years of experience in the mental health field and prior work as a journalist, which shapes his clear, direct communication.
What credentials does he hold and where does he practice?
He holds the LPC and LCMHC credentials and practices in Vermont. Licensing is listed as LPC in Virginia and LCMHC in Vermont.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are sessions priced?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I start working with him?
Use the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to therapist availability.