Mike Petagna

Mike Petagna is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Arizona who helps people dealing with stress, anxiety, addictions, parenting strain, low self-esteem, and life transitions. He presents a calm, respectful approach that aims to make the first steps toward change feel manageable. His style is practical and direct, aimed at helping people feel more capable and steady in daily life.

With eight years of experience, Mike focuses on tailoring conversations and plans to each person's needs. He listens for what matters most and then works with clients to set small, reachable goals. Sessions often center on clearer thinking, better coping skills, and developing routines that support recovery and confidence.

Mike draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people notice and shift unhelpful thinking patterns. He also uses Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills to build emotion regulation and distress tolerance. Solution-Focused Therapy is part of his work when the goal is to identify immediate, practical steps toward improvement.

He treats people with respect and sensitivity and adapts his methods to fit each situation. Mike emphasizes collaboration - clients and therapist decide together what to try next. That approach helps people stay involved and see what changes feel useful in real life.

People who want clear, step-by-step help with everyday struggles may find his way of working helpful. He supports clients through setbacks and progress alike, concentrating on tools that help in the moment and over time.

How these therapy approaches guide online work

Mike uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people spot unhelpful thoughts and try different ways of thinking and acting. CBT sessions often focus on practical exercises and homework that patients can use between meetings.

He also uses Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills to teach emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and better interpersonal effectiveness. DBT skills are useful when feelings run high or behaviors feel hard to control.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist discusses goals, preferences, and what has or hasn't worked before. Together they decide which methods to try and adjust the plan as progress or obstacles appear.

For online work, confirm current session options before booking so you know how meetings are offered. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy week, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. They can also support consistent follow-up for practicing skills between meetings and for staying connected during life transitions.