Online Therapy in Michigan: What to Know Before You Start

Online therapy went from a niche option to a normal one in just a few years, and for good reason — it works. If you live anywhere in Michigan and have been weighing telehealth, here's a clear, practical rundown of how it works and whether it's a fit for you.

How online therapy actually works

It's a real therapy session — the same kind of conversation, the same trained clinician — held over secure video instead of in an office. You join from a private spot at home (or wherever you feel comfortable) through a confidential, HIPAA-compliant platform. No commute, no waiting room. For many people the format quickly fades into the background and it just feels like therapy.

One important rule: licensing is by state

Therapists can generally only see clients located in states where they're licensed. So "online therapy in Michigan" specifically means working with a therapist licensed in Michigan while you're physically in Michigan. As a Michigan-licensed therapist, I can see clients located anywhere in the state — from Grand Blanc and the rest of Genesee County to the Upper Peninsula — which is part of what makes telehealth so useful here.

Who it suits well

• People with packed schedules, long commutes, or limited transportation
• Parents and caregivers who can't easily leave the house
• Anyone in a rural part of Michigan with few local providers
• People who simply feel more at ease opening up from their own space
• Those managing anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, or life transitions

When in-person may be the better call

Telehealth isn't ideal for everyone. In-person care can be a better fit if you don't have a private, reliable space, if you find video draining, or if your needs are more acute. Some people also just prefer being in the same room — and that's perfectly valid. Because I offer both, we can choose what fits you, and even mix the two.

What you need to get started

• A private space where you won't be overheard
• A phone, tablet, or computer with a camera and a decent internet connection
• A few minutes to settle in beforehand, like you would heading to an appointment

That's genuinely it. If you can video-call a friend, you can do online therapy.

Getting started

If online therapy sounds like it could work for you, the easiest next step is a quick conversation. You can request a free 15-minute consultation or learn more about how I work. I offer both in-person sessions in Grand Blanc and secure telehealth to clients across Michigan.

This article is for general education and isn't a substitute for individualized care. — Kevin B. Stachowiak, MSW, LMSW