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Michael Kington

LMFT

Michael Kington , LMFT

Therapist in California

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Online therapy - get matched and start messaging.

About Michael

Michael Kington is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 30 years of experience helping people manage stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship strain, and depression. He also supports people facing life changes, workplace tension, communication problems, questions about life purpose, and women's issues. Michael aims to make the first step into therapy feel manageable and worthwhile.

He creates an open atmosphere where clients can say what they are thinking and feeling without judgment. Sessions focus on practical steps and honest conversation. Michael listens for patterns that keep problems repeating and works with clients to find realistic alternatives.

Across three decades he has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, gaining experience with people who have serious mental health concerns as well as those navigating situational adjustments. That background informs a steady, calm presence in sessions.

Michael adapts his pace to each person. Some clients want short-term help for a crisis or life change. Others prefer a longer conversation about relationships or purpose. He encourages small, achievable goals and checks in on progress regularly.

People who contact him can expect straightforward guidance and a focus on daily strategies that fit their life. He values clear communication and practical tools that can be used between sessions to reduce anxiety and improve coping.

Approaches that inform online work and practical help

Michael draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques that prioritize problem solving and skill building. One approach focuses on identifying unhelpful thinking and testing more balanced thoughts in daily situations to reduce anxiety and low mood. This method helps people notice patterns and try different responses in the moment.

Another common approach emphasizes behavior change and coping strategies. It breaks larger problems into small, doable steps - for example setting manageable goals around sleep, activity, or relationship boundaries - and then reviews what worked between sessions. These techniques are useful for stress, addiction management, and adjusting to life changes.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with each person about their goals and preferences, try methods that fit their situation, and adjust the plan based on what helps most. Clients are involved in deciding next steps and measuring progress.

Online therapy offers flexibility for people with busy schedules or limited travel options. Video calls let the therapist see verbal and nonverbal cues, phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is low, live chat works for shorter check-ins, and text messaging supports ongoing reflection between sessions. These formats make it simpler to fit therapy into work, family, or caregiving routines.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of problems does Michael help with?

He helps people with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship concerns, depression, and coping with life changes, plus communication problems, life purpose, workplace issues, and women's issues.

What is his general approach in sessions?

He focuses on open conversation and practical steps. Sessions emphasize listening, identifying repeating patterns, and trying realistic alternatives that fit daily life.

How much clinical experience does he have?

He has 30 years of professional experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings and with a range of client needs.

What are his credentials and where is he based?

He is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - LMFT - practicing in California.

Which languages are sessions offered in?

Sessions are offered in English.

Can people outside the United States work with him?

He does not accept international clients at this time.

What session formats are available?

Sessions can be scheduled as video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to suit different needs and schedules.

How are fees and scheduling handled?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability and uses a subscription model that can be canceled at any time; to begin, select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a session based on availability.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Additional focus areas

Communication problemsLife purposeWomen's issuesWorkplace issues

Experience

30+ years

Licensed

California

Languages

English

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