Denise Stinson, LMSW

Denise Stinson is a licensed master social worker (LMSW) based in Michigan who helps people facing grief, depression, anxiety, and major life changes. She works with those carrying caregiver stress, chronic illness and pain, and concerns that come with aging and geriatric issues. Denise focuses on practical steps people can take to feel steadier and more capable.

She uses a straightforward, empathic style and aims to meet people where they are. Sessions build on a person’s strengths and the supports they already have. Denise combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Narrative Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to shape a plan that fits each person’s needs.

Her approach is goal-oriented and action-focused. Clients can expect to talk through current problems, test small changes, and track what helps over time. She also draws on knowledge of community resources when those supports will help move goals forward.

Denise has about 10 years of experience working with depression, anxiety, caregiving, and transitions. Her manner is nonjudgmental and collaborative, and she invites people who are ready to do the work to take practical steps toward feeling better.

Beyond short-term goals, she supports people through difficult medical and end-of-life related conversations. The focus is on clear, manageable strategies that ease daily strain and help people regain a sense of control.

Therapeutic approaches and how they translate online

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening, empathy, and following the client’s lead so conversations stay practical and relevant to what matters most. This approach helps people feel heard while they make changes at their own pace.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, looks at how thoughts, feelings, and actions connect. It breaks problems into manageable steps and uses simple experiments and homework to test new behaviors, which can be useful for anxiety, depression, and coping with chronic illness.

Motivational Interviewing helps people find their own reasons to change. It uses guided questions and reflection to increase motivation for steps like seeking support, changing routines, or managing health needs.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Denise will collaborate with each person to decide which combination of styles fits their goals, needs, and preferences. She checks in as goals shift and adapts plans to stay useful.

If you want online sessions, confirm the session options before booking so you know what formats are available. Online therapy can make it easier to fit appointments into busy days, reduce travel, and allow check-ins during short breaks. It can also let people keep therapy going through medical or caregiving challenges when leaving home is difficult.