Michael Harris

How Michael works

Michael received his Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and has worked in psychology for over 14 years.

His passion for psychology began with his own search for happiness. In high school, he found himself wrestling with new emotions, existential questions, and unwanted stress. Books, movies, and the study of the mind helped him understand the value of emotion and the tools people can use to move forward with purpose and confidence.

Before private practice, Michael worked as a supervisor in residential centers, volunteered for two years in Central America, and drove the dusty roads of Alaska to save money for college. Those experiences shaped the way he sits with clients: with heart, compassion, respect for their story, and belief that people can find their ground when given the right tools, space, and support.

As a humanistic therapist, Michael does not see his role as directing clients, but as helping each person discover how they want to direct their own life. As an existential therapist, he believes that when people connect with their authentic self, they have an easier time thriving. His style fits clients who want someone supportive, who recognizes their strengths, and who helps them feel safe to fully express and explore who they are and how they want to move through difficult times and seemingly unanswerable questions.

Michael is open-minded and welcoming of all people. He has direct, extensive experience supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and a meaningful part of his caseload is part of it.