Alan Ellias , LMSW

Alan Ellias is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) practicing in Michigan with 20 years of part-time experience as a psychotherapist. He earned a Master of Social Work from Wayne State University in 1995 and retired from full-time work in the school system in 2022, continuing to offer clinical services in part-time roles.

Early in his career he volunteered on the Commonground crisis line and later worked on emergency services there. He has also been employed at Counseling Alternatives and maintained a small private practice. Over two decades he has supported people facing depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+ concerns, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, career transitions, OCD, and ADHD, as well as those coping with physical trauma or emotional abuse.

His counseling style is warm, interactive, adaptable, and nonjudgmental. He emphasizes respect, sensitivity, and compassion and does not rely on stigmatizing labels. He aims to support and guide clients, suggest options, and broaden perspectives while recognizing that clients make the choices that fit their lives.

Clinically he blends cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive approaches, working from the idea that thoughts influence feelings and feelings influence behavior. By addressing thought patterns, he helps clients change how they feel and act, which can lead to meaningful shifts in daily life. He tailors sessions and treatment plans to each person’s goals and needs and views seeking help as a sign of strength. He looks forward to supporting clients who are ready to take that step.

Therapeutic approaches adapted for online care

Alan integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy alongside a client-centered stance. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns to reduce distress and improve daily functioning - it is often used for anxiety, depression, and stress-related concerns. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify their values, accept difficult emotions, and commit to actions that support a meaningful life - it can be useful for chronic stress, avoidance, and life transitions. Client-centered therapy emphasizes empathy, respect, and collaboration, creating space for clients to lead the pace and focus of work while the therapist offers support and reflection.

Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the therapeutic process. Alan works collaboratively with each person to determine what fits best based on their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting techniques over time to align with progress and feedback.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging - which can make it easier to fit counseling into a busy life and to maintain continuity when schedules or locations change. Licensed professionals can use these options to deliver consistent therapeutic support in ways that suit different communication styles and practical needs.