Michael Jenkins, LICSW

Michael Jenkins is a licensed clinical social worker (LICSW) practicing in Alabama. He focuses on helping people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and substance use. He approaches each person as the expert of their own story and offers down-to-earth support for taking the first steps toward change.

Michael centers sessions on the goals a person brings. He listens first, then helps break bigger problems into doable steps. He draws on cognitive behavioral techniques to identify unhelpful thoughts and try new behaviors. He also uses client-centered and motivational approaches to keep the conversation practical and encouraging.

Short-term problem solving is part of his work when that fits a person’s needs. He can help people manage panic, anger, and low self-esteem, and he provides support for addiction and trauma recovery. He also pays attention to related issues such as chronic pain, seasonal mood changes, and the strain that comes with caregiver or first responder roles.

Sessions are collaborative and focused on what the individual wants to change. Michael helps people set concrete goals, track small wins, and adjust plans when obstacles appear. He aims for practical steps rather than long lists of theory.

With four years of professional experience, Michael offers steady, goal-oriented care in plain language. He works in English and practices in Alabama. If someone is ready to explore next steps, he helps them plan a path forward.

Approaches that work well online

CBT, or cognitive behavioral therapy, focuses on spotting and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. It is practical and often used for anxiety, depression, panic, and mood shifts. Client-centered work emphasizes listening and building a respectful, accepting relationship that helps people find their own solutions and gain confidence.

Michael uses these approaches alongside motivational interviewing when helpful. Motivational interviewing helps people clarify their own reasons for change and strengthens commitment to goals. The therapist and client decide together which approach fits best, and that choice can shift as needs change. Finding the right method is part of the work and is treated as a collaborative process.

Online therapy with video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging offers flexibility. Video lets you work face-to-face and practice skills in real time. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth or camera use is limited. Live chat and text are useful for quick check-ins, shorter reflections, or when writing helps process thoughts. These options make it easier to fit therapy into a busy life and to keep momentum between sessions.