Michael Anderson , PACFA

Michael Anderson is a clinically registered therapist based in Australia with four years of experience working as a psycho-social recovery counsellor. He previously supported people with ongoing and persistent lifelong psychiatric disabilities as a mental health support worker, bringing that frontline experience into his counselling practice.

He works from a person-centered stance and integrates motivational interviewing and solution-focused techniques to help clients identify readiness for change and pursue outcomes that matter to them. Michael places emphasis on collaborative goal-setting and practical steps, helping people consider concrete, meaningful changes rather than abstract ideals. His online practice draws on his direct experience supporting recovery and long-term mental health needs.

Michael holds PACFA, a professional counselling credential, and delivers sessions using approaches that encourage client agency and realistic planning. He frames therapy as a step toward change and supports clients as they explore motivation, options, and next steps. Michael is not currently accepting new clients.

Approaches used online and how they help

Michael commonly uses client-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy in his online work. Client-centered therapy emphasizes the client’s perspective, creating space for individuals to explore feelings and goals at their own pace and is helpful for issues like low self-esteem, grief, and coping with life changes.

Motivational interviewing focuses on strengthening a person’s own motivation to change by exploring ambivalence and building commitment; it is often used for addictions and behaviours where readiness for change varies. Solution-focused therapy concentrates on identifying practical steps and small, achievable goals, making it suitable for people seeking clear direction and immediate strategies to manage depression, isolation, or life transitions.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the work itself. Michael views the process as collaborative and will help clients identify which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences rather than imposing a single model. He adapts techniques as therapy progresses to support meaningful outcomes.

Online sessions via video, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging offer flexibility for people balancing work, family, or health concerns. These options make it easier to maintain consistency in care, access support from home, and choose the format that feels most comfortable for each person seeking therapy.