Michael Jenkins, LICSW

Michael Jenkins is a licensed clinical social worker in Alabama with four years of professional experience. He helps people cope with addictions, trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, and substance use concerns. He believes people know their own stories and brings a supportive presence to help them take the first step toward change.

Michael focuses on the goals each person sets. Sessions emphasize practical steps you can try between meetings. He listens for strengths you may not notice and uses those strengths to build momentum toward your priorities.

In sessions he combines client-centered conversation with structured techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused work. That means he balances listening with tools for managing symptoms and testing small changes that fit daily life. He also uses motivational interviewing to help when decision-making around substance use is part of the work.

Trauma-focused methods are part of his approach when people bring post-traumatic stress, trauma from abuse, or traumatic brain injury-related challenges. He aims to match the pace of the work to what feels manageable and safe for each person.

People often come for help with anger, relationship intimacy concerns, self-esteem, chronic pain or illness, first responder and veteran issues, and panic or social anxiety. Michael emphasizes steady progress, clear goals, and practical coping skills to help people move forward.

Approaches used online and how they help

Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and understanding your perspective. The therapist follows your lead, helps you name your goals, and builds on the strengths you already have to move toward those goals.

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, pairs clear thinking with practical exercises. It breaks problems into thoughts, feelings, and actions, and offers step-by-step strategies to reduce anxiety, depression, panic, and other symptoms.

Motivational interviewing helps when change feels hard or uncertain. It is a conversational method that supports decision-making and increases motivation for shifts like reducing substance use or adopting healthier routines.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will discuss options and tailor methods to your needs, goals, and comfort level, so you and he agree on the direction before moving forward.

Session logistics are not specified here, so confirm which online formats are available before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life, shorten commutes, or allow for brief check-ins that work around work or caregiving. It can also let people meet with a licensed professional from locations that suit their schedule, while still focusing on measurable goals and skills practice.