Michael Seidenfeld
Michael is a master’s-level clinical intern from DePaul University with a bachelor’s degree in sociology (also at DePaul University). He approaches therapy with an intersectional lens, understanding the complex systems that influence our mental health and shape our reality. Taking a person-centered, trauma-informed approach, Michael uses the therapy space to engage in meaningful self-exploration and work together on processing what it means to be a person in the modern world.
As a cisgender, White, Jewish man, Michael is always thinking about the role identity plays in therapy. He approaches every interaction with a warm curiosity and sensitivity that honors the strength it takes to seek out help, creating an inclusive, anti-hierarchical environment for open dialogue. Establishing a foundation of trust and support is a top priority for Michael, and he is committed to holding space for the many ways that identity shows up for clients, as well as recognizing and challenging his own privileges.
Michael is passionate about working with those who find themselves caught at a crossroads, trying to navigate life via a non-traditional path, at odds with the narratives they’ve been assigned. Whether that means trying to live authentically in your gender/sexual/social identity, dealing with career anxiety and burnout, difficulty accessing your creative spark, or grappling with the harms caused by systemic marginalization. Through open collaboration, he works with clients to reframe past experiences and highlight the inherent strength and resilience in each of us. Michael also has a special interest in examining the effects of socialization, particularly around gender and toxic masculinity, and helps clients access improved emotional awareness and healthier vulnerability.
Michael knows that you’re not just a checklist of symptoms that need to be “fixed.” His therapeutic approach incorporates authenticity, humility, and humor in such a way that comforts and affirms clients as they embark on their healing journey. Therapy can potentially lead to more questions than answers, but it’s these questions that guide us towards powerful self-discovery and a richer existence. Rooted in anti-oppressive, feminist, and existential theories, Michael builds a bond with each client that focuses on better understanding how their identities, relationships, and lived experiences inform their outlook. Drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and person-centered techniques, he empowers clients to take control of their story and strengthen their ability to weather the challenges life throws their way.
Outside of therapy, Michael loves to watch movies, try new recipes, and walk to his favorite coffee shops. He is also a musician and has spent years playing in bands, recording, touring, and loves going to local shows. More often than not, though, he is probably at home trying to prevent his cat from knocking over something important.
“And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.”
