Dr. Michael Hayes, LPC

Dr. Michael Hayes helps people who are feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety find steadier footing. He speaks plainly about difficult moments and focuses on practical steps to reduce worry and improve daily functioning. He notices how relationships, family pressures, and life transitions affect mood and behavior. People come to him when grief, role changes, or workplace strain make it hard to cope.

He brings 21 years of professional experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor - LPC in Tennessee. Sessions begin by listening closely to what matters most to each person. Goals are simple and specific: reduce symptoms that interfere with daily life, improve communication, and build routines that support recovery.

In-session work often uses client-centered methods to follow the client’s lead and create a respectful space to talk through problems. Cognitive behavioral techniques are used to identify unhelpful thoughts and try small behavior changes that produce clearer results. The Gottman Method informs relationship-focused work aimed at improving communication and reducing recurring conflict.

He also supports people dealing with body image, caregiver stress, control issues, and the fallout from separation or divorce. Practical tools for managing guilt, shame, and isolation are part of longer-term work. The overall aim is to help clients regain a sense of agency and clearer direction.

Dr. Hayes accepts international clients and offers services from Tennessee. To begin, clients complete a short matching questionnaire and schedule sessions according to availability.

Therapeutic approaches and how they translate online

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and following the client's agenda. The therapist provides a respectful space and reflects what the client shares to help clarify feelings and priorities. This approach is helpful for people who need to feel heard before making changes.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, breaks down how thoughts, feelings, and actions connect. Together the therapist and client identify unhelpful thought patterns and try small behavior experiments to reduce anxiety and stress. CBT is often used for worry, workplace stress, and coping with life changes.

The Gottman Method offers structured ways to improve how partners talk and solve problems. It emphasizes specific communication skills and routines that reduce repeating negative cycles in relationships.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with each person to decide which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. That plan can change as progress is made and new priorities appear.

The biography does not list specific session formats, so please confirm current online options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. It can also let people try different rhythms of work while keeping the focus on practical steps to manage stress, anxiety, and relationship concerns.