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MC Portrait of Michael Cummings

Michael Cummings

Compassionate LCSW blending CBT and acceptance work

LCSW Kentucky

Experience
20 years in practice
Focus areas
Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Relationship
Approaches
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Languages
English
Continue with Michael

About Michael

Michael Cummings is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with two decades of clinical experience rooted in Kentucky and the Appalachian region.

Background and approach

He brings an open, encouraging, and down-to-earth stance to therapy, blending practical skills, creativity, and a sense of humor to help people navigate stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and substance-related concerns. His practice is shaped by a client-centered outlook that makes room for active, collaborative work and tailored strategies rather than one-size-fits-all plans.

Drawing from cognitive-behavioral principles alongside acceptance and mindfulness-informed practices, he designs interventions for sleep difficulties, family discord, relationship concerns, parenting challenges, and trauma-related issues. His background includes roles such as clinical supervisor for the Kentucky Board of Social Work, healthcare ethics consultant, and many years providing care to veterans and bereavement support through hospice.

Michael emphasizes practical tools and measurable steps while remaining responsive to each person’s goals and life context.

CBT and Acceptance-Based Support Through Online Sessions

Michael integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy into online work in straightforward, practical ways. CBT is used to identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors, which is often useful for anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and many day-to-day difficulties. ACT focuses on increasing psychological flexibility by helping clients clarify values and commit to meaningful actions even when uncomfortable thoughts or feelings are present.

Finding the right approach is treated as a collaborative process. Michael works with each person to determine which methods fit their needs and goals, adapting strategies over time based on what is most helpful and feasible in the client’s life and circumstances.

Online therapy with Michael is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to access consistent support from a licensed professional while balancing work, family, and other commitments, and they allow sessions to continue when in-person meetings are difficult.

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does Michael commonly address?
He works with a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, grief, family and relationship problems, trauma and abuse, sleep difficulties, parenting challenges, anger, self-esteem, and coping with life changes.
What is his therapeutic style and approach?
Michael uses a warm, open, and direct style that combines client-centered care with cognitive-behavioral and acceptance-based techniques, and incorporates mindfulness practices as appropriate.
How many years has he practiced clinically?
He brings 20 years of clinical experience, including roles in government, hospice bereavement counseling, and clinical supervision within Kentucky.
Where is he licensed and located?
He is an LCSW licensed in Kentucky with credential KY LCSW 3792 and maintains his practice presence in that state.
Can nonlocal clients work with him in English?
Yes, he conducts sessions in English and accepts international clients.
Which session formats are offered?
Sessions are available via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to fit different preferences and schedules.
How is cost handled for sessions?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions are provided through a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
What are the first steps to begin therapy?
Begin by selecting the Start Therapy button, completing a short matching questionnaire, and then scheduling a session according to therapist availability.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression

Also works with

Family conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue

Additional focus areas

Communication problemsGuilt and shameLife purposeSocial anxiety and phobia

Therapeutic approaches

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Mindfulness Therapy

Experience

20+ years

Licensed

Kentucky

Languages

English