IFSTherapists

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LPC

Michael Johnnson, LPC

  • Experience40 years
  • LocationWisconsin
  • Focus areasStress and Anxiety, Family, and Parenting
  • Therapy approachesInternal Family Systems and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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About Michael

Michael Johnnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with four decades of clinical experience helping people navigate stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, addiction, and major life transitions.

Background and approach

He draws on a broad skill set to tailor counseling to each person's history and goals, whether the need is brief solution-focused work or a deeper, paced exploration of complex feelings and patterns. Michael emphasizes collaboration so clients understand the purpose and expected outcomes of each part of the process.

Rooted in both practical strategies and relational depth, his approach blends Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and client-centered principles. He is comfortable working with individuals, couples, and families and can integrate a faith-informed perspective when requested.

Based in Wisconsin, Michael frames therapy around clients' lived experience, inviting them to be active partners in shaping treatment and selecting techniques that fit their preferences and life circumstances.

How therapeutic approaches guide online work

Michael brings Internal Family Systems (IFS) into online sessions to help clients identify and compassionately relate to different inner parts, which can be useful for addressing patterns in relationships, anxiety, and trauma. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is used to clarify values and build practical acceptance and committed action, often helping with stress, depression, and life transitions. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes the therapeutic relationship and listening with empathy so clients feel understood and can explore their own solutions and personal growth.

Finding the right method is a collaborative process: Michael will work with each person to determine which approach or combination of approaches fits their needs, goals, and preferences. He adapts the pace and techniques depending on whether someone needs focused problem-solving or a deeper exploration of emotional material.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for people balancing work, family, or geographic constraints. These options make it easier to receive consistent support while allowing choice about the communication style that feels most comfortable. Licensed professionals can use these formats to deliver practical tools, reflective dialogue, and ongoing coaching or therapy work.

Frequently asked questions

What concerns can Michael address in therapy?
He works with a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship and family problems, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, and life changes. Additional topics include career struggles, parenting and intimacy-related concerns.
What is his general therapeutic style?
His style is collaborative and client-guided, offering both brief solution-focused work and longer, explorative therapy depending on complexity and the client's goals. He ensures clients understand purpose and process for each step.
How long has he been practicing?
He has 40 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, and families and brings a range of training to address diverse challenges.
What are his credentials and where is he located?
He is an LPC licensed in Wisconsin with license number WI LPC 3648-125. His practice is based in Wisconsin.
Does he provide services in other languages or to international clients?
Sessions are offered in English only, and he is not currently accepting international clients.
Which session formats are available?
He offers video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to accommodate different communication preferences and schedules.
How are costs and subscriptions handled?
Fees vary with location and therapist availability, and sessions are provided through a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
What steps are involved to begin therapy?
To get started, select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule based on therapist availability.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties

Also works with

AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersAnger managementBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigueADHD

Additional focus areas

Aging and geriatric issuesAutism and Asperger SyndromeBlended family issuesCaregiver issues and stressCo-morbidityCodependencyCommunication problemsDivorce and separationFamily problemsGuilt and shameInfidelityIntellectual disabilityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMen's issuesMood disordersMulticultural concernsPanic disorder and panic attacksPhobiasPost-traumatic stressProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSelf-loveSex addictionSocial anxiety and phobiaVisually impaired

Therapeutic approaches

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Motivational InterviewingSolution-Focused TherapyInternal Family Systems

Experience

40+ years

Licensed

Wisconsin

Languages

English