Marisela Cuellar-VanHouten , LMSW

Marisela Cuellar-VanHouten is a Michigan-licensed therapist and an LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) who brings focused clinical experience to individuals seeking support. She has ten years working directly in individual therapy, helping people navigate trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, chronic illness and pain, caregiver burnout, dementia-related concerns, depression, and challenges with motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.

As an LGBTQ+ ally, she attends to the ways culture and identity shape a person’s experience and treatment needs. Her approach centers on respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and she adapts conversations and treatment plans to the specific circumstances of each client. Marisela emphasizes collaborative work that meets clients where they are and supports them in building practical skills and insight.

She frames the therapeutic process as a partnership aimed at empowerment and meaningful change. Seeking greater wellbeing requires courage, and Marisela focuses on offering steady support and practical strategies so clients can move toward a more fulfilling and balanced life at a pace that feels right for them.

Approaches That Guide Online Care with Marisela

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients clarify their values and commit to actions that support a meaningful life. It combines acceptance of difficult thoughts and feelings with practical steps toward what matters most, and can be useful for anxiety, depression, and life transitions.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns and replacing them with more effective strategies. It is a structured, goal-oriented approach that often helps with mood disorders, stress, and coping skills.

Client-Centered Therapy centers the relationship and the client's own expertise about their life. The therapist offers empathy and support while helping the client explore goals and find their own solutions, which can be particularly helpful when building self-esteem or navigating identity and relationship concerns.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Marisela works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. She tailors interventions over time so therapy remains relevant and responsive.

Online therapy with Marisela is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to maximize flexibility and access. These options allow clients to receive consistent support around work, caregiving, or mobility constraints and make it easier to maintain momentum between sessions.