Michael Stern PHD

Welcome to our practice, where we aim to enhance the lives of individuals and couples. As a solution-focused therapist, Dr. Michael L. Stern has over 30 years of experience as a therapist, researcher, and program administrator. He currently serves as a private practitioner, working with clients who are committed to enhancing their lives.

Dr. Stern is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. His therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. He integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, he works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.

Services Provided

Dr. Stern specializes in individual and couples therapy, offering a wide range of services to cater to the unique needs of each client. His services include:

• Individual Therapy: Dr. Stern works with individuals to help them navigate through their personal challenges, whether it's dealing with stress, anxiety, addictions, or other issues. He helps individuals build on their strengths and develop strategies to overcome their obstacles.

• Couples Therapy: Dr. Stern is trained in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy, which is widely recognized as one of the most effective therapy approaches for couples. He works with couples to improve their communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their relationship.

• Addiction Therapy: Dr. Stern is a certified addiction psychologist, and he offers specialized therapy for individuals struggling with addiction. He helps clients understand the underlying causes of their addiction and develop strategies to overcome it.

• Sex Therapy: Dr. Stern is a certified sex therapist, and he offers therapy for individuals and couples dealing with sexual issues. He helps clients address their sexual concerns and improve their sexual health.

• Family Business Consulting: Dr. Stern has a certificate in family business advising and offers consulting and coaching services to small business owners and families in business. He helps them navigate the unique challenges of running a family business and develop strategies to improve their operations.

Education and Qualifications

Dr. Stern received his undergraduate education at Cal State University, Long Beach. His PhD in psychology was awarded by the University of Washington. He served as an intern at the National Institute of Mental Health, St. Elizabeths Hospital, Washington DC. He was awarded a post-doctoral fellowship in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Tennessee.

Dr. Stern is licensed as a clinical psychologist in Connecticut and has certifications in addiction psychology and sex therapy. He is a member of the American Psychological Association, Connecticut Psychological Association, Family Firm Institute, and APA Division on Addictions. He has presented at national conferences and to general audiences, speaking on topics such as stress management, anxiety, addictions, relationship enhancement, and enhancing performance.

Community Service and Personal Life

Dr. Stern has been involved in various community service activities, including serving on the United Way of Western Connecticut: Northern Fairfield Council and Health Care Grant Review Team Chair. He has also been a member of the University of Connecticut Family Business Program Advisory Board.

In his personal life, Dr. Stern enjoys seeing the world one stroke at a time, sitting in his sea kayaks with his wife. They are avid paddlers on the lakes, rivers, and coast close to home and along the east coast.