- Stress and anxiety
- Relationship issues
- Self esteem work
About Matthew
Matthew Esselstrom is a California-licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with 22 years of clinical experience. He focuses on stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, anger, self-esteem, and motivation. He also works with people facing addiction, grief, trauma, and challenges around intimacy and parenting.
Matthew keeps sessions straightforward and practical. He listens to what is happening now and helps people try small, manageable steps. Conversations are shaped around the problems a person brings, and goals are set together for what to work on next.
In his work he addresses a wide range of concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, ADHD, and issues related to attachment and abandonment. He also supports people dealing with blended family stress, caregiver strain, and substance use concerns. That breadth comes from long experience in community and clinical settings.
Matthew adapts his approach to fit the person in front of him. He focuses on techniques that help with coping, behavior change, and rebuilding confidence. Sessions may include talking through thoughts and behaviors, practicing new responses, and planning realistic next steps for everyday life.
People who prefer clear, practical guidance may find this approach helpful. He aims to treat each person with respect and sensitivity while working toward concrete changes. To begin, clients complete a short questionnaire and schedule an initial session to map out priorities and next steps.
Approach and how online sessions work
Matthew uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on changing thoughts and behaviors. Cognitive-style approaches help people notice and test unhelpful thinking, which can reduce worry and avoidance in social settings. Behavioral strategies involve gradual steps and practice, useful for facing fears, improving confidence, and handling difficult interactions.He also draws on problem-focused methods that identify practical skills to manage stress, anger, sleep, and day-to-day routines. These methods aim to build small, repeatable changes that fit into regular life and can improve coping over time. Choosing the right mix of techniques is part of the work and is decided together based on what a person wants to change and how they respond.
Confirm current session options before booking so you know what formats are offered. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow quicker check-ins during a workday. Some people prefer sessions without video for shorter check-ins or when bandwidth is limited. The therapist will discuss what format works best and adjust the plan to match goals and daily routines.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Experience
22+ years
Listed in
California
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does he address?
He works with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger, self-esteem, addiction, trauma, grief, and related areas listed in his profile.
How would you describe his therapeutic style?
Sessions are practical and goal-focused, with conversational work and steps to change thinking and behavior.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has 22 years of professional experience working with a broad range of issues.
What credentials and location apply to his practice?
He is an LMFT licensed in California and practices from that state.
Which languages are available for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people from other countries work with him?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are sessions priced?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
What do I do to start working together?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.