Matthew Carleton

Matthew Carleton is a licensed social worker (LMSW) practicing in Michigan who helps people navigate divorce and separation concerns alongside anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship difficulties. He focuses on practical problem solving and clear steps that people can use between sessions. Matthew offers a direct, down-to-earth approach that aims to make therapy feel manageable during a stressful transition.

He typically uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which looks at how thoughts, feelings, and actions interact. Matthew also draws on the Gottman Method to address patterns in relationships and communication. Sessions tend to include skill building, talking through specific situations, and setting small goals to try between meetings.

Matthew has about seven years of experience in individual therapy and has led groups on domestic violence and relationship topics for roughly 12 years. That background informs how he supports people coping with family problems, attachment wounds, and changes after separation. He aims to help clients notice unhelpful thinking, reduce anxiety, and rebuild confidence.

In sessions he works in a practical, conversational way. Clients can expect straightforward feedback, exercises to practice, and a focus on what’s most pressing in daily life. The goal is to leave each meeting with at least one concrete step to try.

People who contact Matthew often bring concerns such as parenting stress, blended family challenges, addictive behaviors, or struggles with self-worth. He helps address these issues while also attending to emotional fallout from divorce and separation.

How Matthew Uses CBT and Gottman Work Online

Matthew often uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy online, which focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and testing new ways of thinking and acting. CBT is useful for anxiety, depression, stress, and changing habits that get in the way of daily life.

He also draws on the Gottman Method for relationship-focused work. That approach looks at communication patterns and practical tools for managing conflict and rebuilding connection. It can help people prepare for separation, navigate conversations, or improve how they relate to others during change.

Finding the right method is a team effort. Matthew will discuss goals, try techniques, and adjust the approach based on what the client finds useful. He aims to collaborate so the work feels applicable to daily life and the client’s priorities.

Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. It also can help people practice communication skills in real time and use tools between sessions to track progress.