Michael's Therapy
Couch
A safe place to land, feel, and heal
“Feelings buried alive don't die; they show up in other areas of your life. What you can feel, you can deal with. And what you deal with, you can heal from.”
-Michael McGill, Jr.
Psychotherapist
Therapist. Wounded Healer. Human. Overcomer. Advocate for Healthy Hearts.
Michael McGill Jr is a licensed and board-certified therapist specializing in breakthrough for individuals, couples, and families.
Is Therapy for You?
People have often approached me saying that they must be 'crazy' (whatever that means) or have gone through severe trauma to benefit from therapy, but that's just not true and those messages can keep
people bound. We are only as sick as our secrets and many of us live in the shackles of shame when we don't have to suffer in silence or suffer alone.
I believe that therapy is for anyone who 1) is breathing and 2) wants to grow as a human being. I personally started going to therapy in high school with a therapist who used a card game to get my attention and build rapport. I had no real concept of what therapy was. Little did I know that initial interaction would change my life forever; years later, I would become a therapist... and I still go to therapy!
You might find working with me helpful if you:
What is most personal is most universal
Carl Rodgers
The Gift of Therapy...
You're not alone and I'm glad you stopped by. At some point in our lives, we all need support navigating life. That's just a part of this human experience, and if you are fortunate to live long enough, you won't live this life unscathed. Sometimes, we know the help we need, and other times, we know we just feel 'stuck.' That's where the gift of therapy comes in. Why suffer in silence when there IS support available? One of the best gifts that you can offer yourself is the compassion and emotional care that comes from the gift of therapy. I believe it's a gift so much that I personally go to therapy regularly!
Therapy isn't a magic wand that solves everything instantly; it's a process of self-awareness, radical compassion and acceptance, and intentional tools for behavioral change. It takes intentional work to unlearn and then learn new ways of thinking + behaving. Getting an objective point of view from a skilled professional who doesn't know you can be a radically transformative experience. Seems odd, right? Well, even if you're skeptical, why don't you give it a try!?
By uncovering the obstacles holding you back, you can learn to make healthier choices, enhance the relationship you have with yourself and others, turn goals into realities, and create the life that you desire and deserve! I work with people on a wide array of life challenges, including:
- trauma
- depression
- anxiety
- money issues; improving your relationship with money (financial therapy)
- relationship difficulties/conflicts (couples work and family relationships-- one of my favorites!)
- life transitions
- self-esteem and self-worth goals
- attachment trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) / family-of-origin issues
- parenting & family building
- shame and guilt
- grief (not just from death) and loss
- supporting people manage issues specific to the professional sports and the entertainment business
- And more...
I specialize in supporting people to create the life they desire and deserve through compassionate therapy, cognitive and behavioral insight, warmth & humor, and accountable questioning. My role isn't to make anyone change but to create the space for them to reflect, accept, grow, heal, and have their own metamorphosis.
My counseling style focuses on encouragement, education, and empowerment to help patients find practical solutions for life’s challenges. I support and call to life the overcomer in those whom I'm so fortunate to serve. My patients really are some of my biggest teachers and some of the strongest people I know!
I believe in helping the whole person to heal. This is why my office offers a comprehensive and measurement-based system of mental health care that is rooted in psychological science, neuroscience, and traditional healing methods that together formulate a holistic healing framework.
♫♪ I'm never gonna' let you close to me...
Even though you mean the most to me...
'Cause every time I open up, it hurts ♪♬
Sam Smith
Therapeutic Orientation (How I do therapy)...
When interviewing a new psychotherapist, it's important to understand how they approach the science of therapy (their theoretical orientation) and their therapeutic approach. Ultimately, you want to find someone who is a good fit for you-- a place and space where you feel seen, heard, valued, and connected to. Why is this important? Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of successful treatment. After all, this is a science, but it's an emotional science. So yes, the therapist you choose DOES matter and the connection you have with them may impact you more than their skills, education, or techniques [Martin, D.J., Garske, J.P., & Davis, K.M. (2000)]. This makes sense though, right? We open up to those we feel connected to.
During therapy sessions with me, we will likely laugh together, drop some truth bombs, have epiphanies and hard conversations, and there may even be some tears. Why? Because both you and I are human. And your feelings are welcome here. I'm going to compassionately yet directly challenge you (known as therapeutic confrontation) based on the goals that you establish for yourself-- even if you become resistant. The key word here is COMPASSIONATE CARE. I provide insight and understanding and challenge you by providing a new perspective to assist in reframing.
I'm a cognitive-based psychotherapist that integrates psychoanalytic modalities. This simply means I focus a lot on your thoughts and decision-making patterns (cognitions), how those thoughts impact your feelings, and how your feelings impact your behavior. For me, it's also equally important to understand where those thoughts originate so we can deal with the root causes. We'll do a lot of work cultivating insight-- not just focused on the here and now. I'm a nerd at heart and I love supporting you with finding insight and meaning. I'm not a therapist who will just nod and listen without questioning, challenging, or joining your process. I see therapy like a garden; it's my role to support you with excavating what's in the soil of your soul and determining what are good seeds vs. unhealthy (or toxic) weeds.
You probably want to know: Does Michael know what he's doing?
I welcome the question! Yes, I know what I'm doing. I've spent over a decade in this field and being a therapist is a calling and a passion of mine, so I'm consistently learning, growing, and evolving in this scientific craft. Therapy is a science. Navigating human relationships is a science. Supporting people with healing from trauma and adverse life experiences is a science. You want someone skilled at supporting you with navigating the life issue(s) beyond simply wondering if they have also lived the same issue. But one thing that I know: I can personally relate to many of my patients' experiences. I'm a human first who decided to become a therapist.
I'm also well-trained. In addition to being a nationally board-certified (indicates a medical professional has met rigorous criteria and educational standards to demonstrate their expertise.) and a medical board licensed therapist, I was educated and trained at Johns Hopkins University (with honors; "Student of the Year") where I learned cutting-edge techniques on how to support people in developing healthier mental health, navigate the terrain of trauma and adverse life experiences, and create healthy relationships. Working with couples is a significant focus of my practice, and to keep up with the most cutting-edge techniques in the field of both individual and couples therapy, I participate in ongoing clinical study and training.
The people who reach out to me are those interested in self-discovery and challenging dialogue, and they believe in the power of healing. My patients include busy moms and dads, professional athletes, corporate executives, couples on the brink of divorce, mothers and daughters seeking to reconcile, men learning how to become more emotionally available, emerging adults trying to figure out life, people learning how to overcome grief and deal with change, and a mix of people in between! I know firsthand that therapy is a big step and that the therapeutic relationship is an intimate and deeply personal one. That is why I offer a complimentary 15-minute discovery call where we explore if working together may be a good fit. During this time, you can ask me questions and I can explore if I may be able to support you with your goals.
When we hold in our emotional pain, our bodies will cry out in other ways...
Dr. Anita Phillips
Logistics and FAQ's...
I'm glad you made it this far! I look forward to speaking with you to explore if we have a good 'therapy fit.' Remember that finding a good therapist is similar to finding a quality restaurant; it may take you a few tries before you find 'the fit'; however, don't stop looking for a therapist just like you wouldn't stop eating! I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find someone, AND I also know how rewarding it is when you finally do. Keep going.
Let's go over some logistical information and frequently asked questions.
Do you offer in-person or virtual therapy sessions?
I offer both! My preference is in-person because therapy is a spiritual activity; our spirits are having an exchange and on a quest for growth. There are certain things I can better sense and see in person. For in-person patients, I serve the Washington D.C. metro area (Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia). Otherwise, virtual sessions are also an option! And if you're not in my licensed area, then consultative and coaching services are available.
Do you accept insurance?
I'm an in-network provider (mental health / behavioral health) with Blue Cross & Blue Shield and CareFirst plans. With all other companies and plans, I'm considered an 'out-of-network' provider. For those plans, my office will offer you a superbill after the completion of your session. You can then submit this to your insurance company for potential reimbursement-- depending on your plan benefits.
Why don't you accept other insurance plans?
Therapy is costly. I understand it and I agree-- though it's often argued that the benefits of psychotherapy are priceless. I happen to also agree with that notion, and after working together, I hope you do, too! To be considered 'in-network', it can be a long, arduous, and sometimes not beneficial process for providers, and as such, many opt to provide out-of-network services instead. Insurance can be a tricky relationship. Some plans offer such low reimbursement rates that I wouldn't be able to stay in business and serve as many people as possible if I accepted those plans; not every plan/company is equal. It's expensive to become a therapist and it's expensive to stay in business as one. Moreover, some insurance companies can create a burden and aim to limit how many services/sessions they will cover, or they require me to justify A LOT about why you need the treatment you're receiving. Having to tussle with an insurance company continuously means I have less time to see other patients.
With out-of-network services, your insurance may cover the service (or a percentage), minus any co-pays. Several health insurance plans provide partial coverage for out-of-network providers. Moreover, many plans don't require you to meet your deductible for "outpatient mental/behavioral health" services. Each plan is different, so it's important to review your Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) document for "mental/behavioral health." The best way to know what portion of your treatment is covered is to contact your insurance company directly and offer them the following codes:
- Individual Psychotherapy: 90837
- Group Psychotherapy: 90853
- Couples or Family Therapy with Patient Present: 90847
- Does my plan limit how many sessions per calendar year or per incident I can have? If so, what are the limits?
- Do I have a deductible for mental/behavioral health?
Remember that therapy is an investment in YOU; it's a time commitment and an emotional one, but the labor can produce a bountiful and transformative harvest in your life.
No Surprise Act of 2022:
The No Surprises Act came into effect which ensures that you have the right to receive a 'Good Faith Estimate' explaining how much your medical care will cost. I am happy to provide that for you. During our initial intake session, you'll be reminded of the cost of treatment (which is charged per visit). This is more for self-pay patients.
Please remember that you remain ultimately responsible for paying any deductible, copay, or other out-of-pocket expenses your insurance provider may require. You also remain ultimately responsible for paying any claims your insurance provider may reject.
I'm ready to take the plunge! What's next!?
I'm so glad to hear that! I'm excited to meet you. Please email: Booking@McGillSpeaks.com with the subject line "Therapy" and let's schedule your intake session. During this time, we will learn more about each other and you can also interview me to explore if we are a good fit! I'll learn more about your presenting concerns, goals for treatment, and create a safe & healing environment for your healing journey. I sincerely honor the human and overcomer in you, and I'm grateful to be entrusted with your care. I'm looking forward to seeing you have your own metamorphosis!
Let's create the breakthrough. Together.
-Michael McGill, Jr. Ed.S., NCC
