Gottman Method therapists in Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky KY

Clients work best with someone they trust and feel comfortable with. One of the most consistent pieces of feedback I get is how easy it is to talk with me and they appreciate that I'm "real". I believe that a pinch of empathy and a dash of compassion makes the perfect recipe to provide you an accurate reflection needed to do meaningful therapy work.  

Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues as an individual or a couple, I'll treat you with compassion using the most recent evidence-based research. Using an integrative approach, I tailor therapy to fit each client’s unique personality and their specific goals. If you’re struggling with unhelpful thinking patterns, we’ll work together to discover these thoughts and understand what led you astray. I’ll also help you develop a plan to improve your well-being. If you feel stuck with your goals, I can assist you in learning to accept your experiences and circumstances, particularly those that are beyond your control. If you’re questioning your life choices and purpose, we’ll delve into your existential questions and their emotional impact. My aim is to enhance your overall well-being and support you in achieving what’s most important to you.  

Sometimes, we all need a little perspective. When you're overwhelmed with pain, sadness, and/or anxiety, it can feel impossible to move forward. Having someone in your corner who can help motivate and support you throughout the change process can make all the difference. I know taking the first step to find a therapist isn't easy and I don't take that show of strength lightly! With my (attempted) sense of humor and deep respect for my clients, I hope to create a welcoming space where you can embrace who you are right now and then find ways to transform your life to reflect your best self.  

The right fit is of the upmost importance as you select your psychologist. Here are some things about me that I hope will help you evaluate that! 1. I love that I get to do this work every day and use the information I know to help people live fuller lives. It’s a distinct honor and privilege to be part of people making big changes in their lives, moving forward after past traumas, making changes within themselves or how they talk to themselves, trying out new ways of engaging in relationships, or starting to believe for the first time that they just might deserve the life they want to lead. 2. Being a counseling psychologist was a very intentional choice for me. I didn’t know I wanted to be a therapist until I was a Junior in college. Originally, I completed a Master’s program and seriously considered getting licensed and living happily ever after as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I knew I loved providing therapy, but I also knew I wanted to learn more! So, I decided to go forward and get my PhD in Counseling Psychology—a degree that I believe has truly allowed me to understand the complexities of psychology and provided the depth of training and experience I needed to become the kind of therapist I wanted to be. As a psychologist, I am an expert in the human experience, both when it’s working well and when issues arise. I understand the complex integration that biochemistry and genetics play as they engage with the environment and sociocultural influences leading to direct effects on mood, well-being, and mental and physical health. This applies to us as individuals, and in the various roles we play as partners, workers, parents, and within our circles of friends and family. As a counseling psychologist, I help people with physical, emotional, and mental disorders improve well-being, alleviate distress and maladjustment, and resolve crises (APA, 2012). I believe that all of these things make psychologists like myself uniquely skilled in providing psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treating mental health disorders. 3. I have been a therapist all over this country. That may not seem like a big deal, but it has provided me some pretty unique experiences that have fundamentally changed how I do what I do. I’ve worked as a therapist in a fancy high-rise building in New York City. I’ve done therapy sitting on the floor of my client’s living room (while I worked in community mental health in low SES areas). So many different needs, so many different lifestyles and backgrounds! These experiences taught me that there are just a few core things required to have a healing experience in therapy, but they all start with two people together in a room, genuinely trying to connect with one another. I also see a direct connection between these experiences and my dedication to practice with respect, compassion, and equity for all. 4. I work with people, not “problems.” I can’t tell you how many of my clients have commented on this in some way or another. They express feeling supported and safe because we don’t allow therapy to minimize them to just those things that they may struggle with… we aim to understand their whole-person just a bit better each time we sit down. While yes, sometimes that includes some serious concerns, we work on understanding how this may make sense given their history/experiences, what they want to work towards changing, and we do it with lots of self-compassion along the way. 5. When I’m not working… you’d be most likely to find me cooking, relaxing with my dog, or practicing piano. I began teaching myself piano about 2 1/2 years ago (through an iPad app no less) and I thoroughly enjoy the “brain break” it provides me. More recently, I’ve been working on some crafting and home DIY projects. I love figuring out just how much I can make out of goods purchased only from the Dollar Tree (not kidding). Finally, I am an amateur connoisseur of coffee, pickles, and popcorn, and I take these things very seriously.  

Hey there! I’m Mike Strand, an experienced psychologist with over 15 years of dedication to guiding individuals on their journey of self-improvement. My expertise lies in helping clients overcome emotional challenges to enhance personal growth and strengthen relationships. I recognize that seeking support can be difficult, which is why I will strive to make therapy as welcoming and approachable as possible. Our sessions are collaborative, tailored to your specific needs, facilitating deep and lasting transformation.