Works with
- Anger
- Addictions
- Relationship issues
- Family conflicts
- Anger management
- Self esteem
How Kelly works
- Not listed
Practical facts
- Credentials
- LMSW
- Licensed in
- Michigan
- Years in practice
- 30
- Languages
- English
- Session format
- Online, through our partner platform
About Kelly
Kelly Hayes is a Licensed Master Social Worker with three decades of experience helping people face strong emotions and difficult patterns. He focuses on practical steps that reduce anger, improve self-esteem, and address issues tied to addiction and relationships. Kelly writes and listens in clear, direct language so people know what to expect in a session.
Kelly's background includes work as a child and family counselor, a Special Education social worker, and a behavioral intervention specialist.
Background and approach
He has supported people affected by early childhood trauma, attachment and abandonment concerns, anxiety, depression, fear, and guilt. He has also worked with people who have struggled with substance use and marital concerns. His experience extends to supporting people with OCD, attention-deficit/hyperactivity differences, autism spectrum conditions, developmental delays, emotional impairments, and learning-related behavioral challenges.
He has worked with school avoidance and severe aggression in past roles. In sessions he emphasizes a strength-based approach. He aims to build a straightforward, respectful relationship and uses active listening and encouragement to help people share what matters to them.
Together with each person he develops an individualized plan focused on realistic goals and clear steps. Kelly practices in Michigan and uses short, plain explanations rather than clinical jargon. He aims to make therapy feel manageable and directed, especially for people who come because anger or related issues have become hard to handle.
What Kelly works with
Everything Kelly lists, in the therapist's own terms. Anger is the reason this directory exists; the rest tells you what usually sits alongside it in Kelly's practice.
Evidence-based approaches and online options
Kelly uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on practical change and emotional regulation. One common approach he draws on emphasizes building strengths and clear communication to reduce anger and improve relationships; this method centers on identifying patterns, practicing new responses, and setting achievable goals. Another approach he often uses focuses on skills training for emotional control and stress management, teaching breathing, grounding, and problem-solving strategies that people can use between sessions.Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will work with each person to match techniques to their goals, needs, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress is made. Sessions begin with a clear discussion of goals and steps so people know what to expect.
Online therapy is offered through several formats: video calls for face-to-face conversation, phone sessions when video is not possible, live chat for shorter exchanges, and text-based messaging for ongoing check-ins. These options make it easier to fit sessions into work or family schedules, allow shorter or more frequent contact when helpful, and require less travel time. The variety of formats helps people stick with a plan and try techniques in real life between meetings.
Questions people ask about Kelly
What kinds of problems does Kelly address?
He works with concerns such as addictions, relationship issues, family stress, anger, and low self-esteem. He has experience with trauma-related challenges, anxiety, and depression.
What is Kelly's general approach in therapy?
He uses a strengths-based style that favors direct talk and active listening. Sessions focus on developing clear, realistic plans and practical steps you can try between meetings.
How much clinical experience does he have?
Kelly brings 30 years of professional experience in social work, special education settings, behavioral intervention, and life coaching roles.
What are his credentials and where is he located?
He is a Licensed Master Social Worker, listed as LMSW, practicing in Michigan.
Which languages are used in sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
What session formats are available online?
He offers video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to accommodate different needs and schedules.
How is cost handled for sessions?
Cost varies by location and therapist availability and sessions are provided through a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Start by selecting the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.