Michael lusher, lac

 Michael is a general mental health therapist. He specializes in working with adolescents, families, and young adults experiencing difficulties, including, but not limited to:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Motivation
• Life stressors & transitions
• Relationship issues
• Family communication
• Boundaries
• Gender identity and sexual orientation

Michael strives to provide a safe space for individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. He works to gain perspective from each individual client’s point of view, with the understanding that every person’s life journey is special and unique. Michael works primarily with adolescents and young adults (ages 13-26) with in-person sessions preferred but telehealth services available when needed. He primarily provides individual therapy, but requests that for clients under age 18, their caregiver(s) be willing to participate in their child’s therapy as needed.

Michael believes one of the key factors for success in mental health treatment is establishing a strong therapeutic relationship between the client and the counselor. This relationship should foster trust, compassion, and a commitment to the therapeutic process. No matter the therapeutic approach being utilized, Michael works diligently to provide a safe and validating atmosphere, while also challenging each client toward the growth that they’re seeking. Michael incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an adolescent form of ACT therapy named DNA-V, and Solution Focused therapeutic techniques.

  Michael received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas with a major in Psychology and a minor in human development and family science. He then went on to receive his Master’s in Counseling from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Michael has worked with a wide range of clients from diverse income backgrounds, racial identities, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Kansas and is currently under supervision to receive his license by endorsement as a Licensed Associate Counselor in the state of Arizona.

Michael has had a lifelong passion for the outdoors and nature. He enjoys nothing more than a peaceful hike with his fiancé and their golden retriever named Hazel. If a breathtaking hike through a Southwestern mountain trail with his furry companion is not possible, he will happily choose to spend time with friends or family. Cooking is another passion of Michael’s and he sees it as another way he can share something to others to help brighten their day. 

• Aetna
• Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO
• Private Pay

Email: michael@truedirectioncounseling.com

Phone: 480-546-8540