Self Esteem, Addiction, Life Transition, Relationships, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma / PTSD, Grief, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Michael
Michael Moriarty is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania who has over 8 years of experience working with adults and adolescents on a wide range of mental health struggles relating to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, and grief and trauma-related issues. His area of specialty is working with drug and alcohol addictions. He approaches therapy from a client-centered, collaborative perspective where he works alongside clients as they navigate their issues and gain greater insight into their own capacity for growth. He is also a nationally certified counselor.
Michael holds Master's degrees in Science Education from Lehman College and in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Duquesne University. He uses cognitive behavioral and trauma-informed approaches to assist clients in working through problem areas and gaining an increased capacity for life satisfaction.
Michael has a variety of personal life experiences that make him well suited to address his clients needs. He understands the complexity of human psychology and the fundamental need for personal connection that individuals hold and this enables him to provide a personal and unique perspective to assist clients with their struggles.
"As a conscientious and understanding therapist with varied life experience, I am uniquely suited to address various client needs and struggles"
Get to know Michael
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I have had a variety of personal life struggles which brought a keen awareness of the importance and necessity of competent therapists, both for my own growth personally and from the perspective of a helper in the counseling field.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with clients who are willing to stay open-minded and take some risks in their therapy. I always encourage my clients to try to be in a place where they are just one step outside of their comfort zone.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I am excited to work with clients of all types, but what I enjoy most is when clients are open to the therapy process and have a real willingness to grow through their struggles.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
I would like for clients to know that I have come through some significant personal struggles with mental health through my own efforts in therapy and treatment and that they, too, can overcome difficulties in their life no matter how overwhelming they may seem.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I like that Thriveworks is a national practice in 48 states because this gives it some credibility over smaller independently run practices. I also like the autonomy and flexibility that Thriveworks provides.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by individuals who have overcome adversity in their lives. I believe that real growth only comes through effort at overcoming struggles.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
Aside from the fact that the first therapy session often involves intake procedures and questions, clients can expect to be greeted with a warm and inviting therapist who practices with non-judgement and empathy.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
My hope in a first session with a client is to gain a good grasp on what their current struggles are and what they hope to accomplish through therapy. I also like to provide clients with a good sense of what to expect from me as a therapist through the course of our time together in our first session.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
Before scheduling a first session, I would like clients to know that I have had experience with therapy from both sides of the table, both as a client in therapy and as a practitioner of therapy. This experience allows for an empathic understanding of what they are going through as they enter into a new therapeutic relationship.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
On my time off, I enjoy exercise, hiking, biking and spending time with my family.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
One defining non-professional feature of mine is kindness.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 8 years
- Graduating institute
- Duquesne University
- Graduating degree
- Master of Science Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Additional details
Practice information
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