Grief counselors and therapists in Fairfield, CA

If you're a woman feeling stretched thin by the relationships in your life — a partner, your family, the demands of parenting — you don't have to sort through it alone. I help women navigate relationship stress, anxiety, grief, and the harder seasons of life: losing someone you love, adjusting to a health condition, or facing a change you didn't choose. I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Social Work from Azusa Pacific University, and my goal in every session is simple: you leave feeling heard, understood, and a little more capable than when you arrived.

I am open, approachable, and committed to listening carefully to your experiences without judgment. I believe that each person carries a unique story, and my goal is to provide a supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and encouraged as you navigate life’s challenges and opportunities for growth. Together, we can explore what is most important to you and work toward creating a life that feels meaningful, authentic, and aligned with your values.

My background includes earning a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, along with a lifelong appreciation for personal growth, nature, and the healing power of connection. Growing up learning to surf fostered a deep respect for the ocean and the lessons it offers about resilience, balance, and adapting to life's changing conditions. These experiences have shaped my belief in the importance of honoring each individual’s journey and recognizing that growth often comes through both challenge and reflection.

For nearly 13 years, I worked as a psychotherapist at a mens' long term substance abuse treatment program, The Fellowship Center, Inc. in Escondido California. I obtained several certifications as a drug and alcohol counselor, but I relied primarily on my training as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist to perform individual psychotherapy for residents in the treatment program.

I also have obtained training in Eye Movement Desentitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which I believe provides a robust treatment intervention for trauma. I now have 10 years experience using EMDR both in person and by telehealth with more than one hundred fifty clients.

I also have a strong interest in mindfulness and somatic interventions which I believe are essential in the integration of the treatment of both substance abuse and trauma.

In addition to trauma and substance abuse, I most frequently work with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, or complex grief.

Finally, I enjoy working with clients who are struggling in the midst of major life transitions.

Hi! Im Mike Strauss and I specialize in anxiety, PTSD, depression and substance abuse. With my own background as an addict now with 17 years clean and sober, I organically found my purpose as a clinician. What initially started with drug and alcohol counseling immediately turned into something bigger, as I pursued a master’s degree in social work. Understanding that addiction is but a symptom of underlying fears and traumas resulting in mood disorders, I was able to REALLY look at myself as I encourage my clients to do during their journeys toward self-realization.

I have a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University with Specialisation in Marriage and Family Therapy, a Bachelors in Psychology, Honours Bachelors Degree in Education (post grad) in School Guidance and counseling, Mediator and Divorce Mediator Certificate,SAT Teacher Certification and EMDR Certificate (Emdria)

I was born and raised in Montana and have a genuine passion for nature and the outdoors. I received my Bachelors in Psychology at Montana State University in 2001. I then pursued my Masters of Social Work degree and graduated in 2008 from the University of Montana. This graduate program had a focus on providing a social justice and integrated practitioner perspective. I have an eclectic style that can be tailored to each unique individual. My primary therapeutic methods include Mindfulness Based, Holistic, Exposure, Narrative, Cognitive and Behavioral, Strengths Based & Solution Focused Therapies. I provide a non-judgmental and compassionate environment that often helps people feel comfortable. A true passion of mine is structuring therapeutic activities for clients to express, process, increase self-awareness, and de-stress from life’s challenging and developmental experiences.

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in California with 17 years of experience working as a Mental Health Clinician and a Behavioral Therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, anger management issues, Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. My counseling style is warm, supportive, interactive, and focuses on my clients' needs.

I have over 7 years of experience working with depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, couples, and other severe mental health concerns. My goal is to create a comfortable, safe space where you can begin your therapeutic journey with confidence and without judgment. Together, we can openly explore what you want in—and out of—life. If you don't know what that looks like yet, that's okay. We can figure it out together. Your goals may also change along the way, and therapy should have the flexibility to change with you.

I bring a wealth of experience from my work in child welfare for nearly 10 years, which has shaped me into a deeply trauma-informed practitioner. Over the years, I have supported clients of all ages and walks of life, including individuals facing complex socioeconomic stressors and diverse life circumstances. I am comfortable working with a wide range of mental health concerns, from mood disorders like anxiety and depression to more complex personality-based struggles. No matter your background or the challenge you are facing, I offer a stable, professional, and non-judgmental presence designed to help you process your experiences and move toward a healthier future.

I believe that therapy is a partnership, and my goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel truly heard. As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in supporting individuals as they navigate life’s transitions, stress, and anxiety. My approach is rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices, primarily utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and a client-centered perspective to help you develop practical tools for your daily life. I am dedicated to working alongside you to build on your existing strengths, foster resilience, and help you create the change you are seeking. You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone; I invite you to reach out so we can start this work together.