Michael John Hughes is a Licensed Master Social Worker, receiving his degree from the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. With an extensive background in the performing arts, Michael utilizes a creative and collaborative approach to therapy that aims to foster an individual’s self-worth and cultivate their authenticity. Using a client-centered, relational approach, clients can expect to strengthen their capacity for insight and self-awareness, while exploring and modifying ingrained behavioral and emotional patterns that keep us feeling limited. Michael strongly acknowledges that every client is inherently unique and requires a tailored approach to treatment, created mutually through psychotherapy sessions. Considering all aspects of a person’s life, Michael recognizes how systemic issues, interpersonal relationships, and biological and environmental circumstances shape our lives and sense of self. Michael has experience working with individuals who have experienced childhood trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance use, life stress, HIV, medical issues, and minority-related stress. Michael works well with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, though he is interested in working with individuals across the sexual identity and gender spectrum.