- Stress and anxiety
- Relationship skills
- Anger management
About Matthew
Matthew Esselstrom is a California-licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with 22 years of professional experience. He works with adults on common pressures like stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, anger, low self-esteem, motivation, and life changes. He also addresses issues such as addiction, grief, trauma, and concerns related to sexual orientation.
Matthew keeps sessions direct and practical. He listens to what matters most and helps set clear goals for change. Conversations are adjusted to each person’s situation, and he focuses on ways to make everyday life more manageable.
He brings long experience helping people sort relationship tensions, intimacy questions, and parenting strain. He also supports people dealing with sleep and eating concerns, mood disorders such as depression or bipolar, and attention-related difficulties like ADHD.
Matthew’s background includes two decades of applied clinical work in California settings. He uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques and adapts them to each client’s needs. He aims to help people build skills for handling stress, managing anger, and improving communication.
In early sessions he works with clients to identify the most pressing problems and practical next steps. He encourages straightforward conversation about goals, setbacks, and what a reasonable plan looks like week to week. Over time the focus can shift to skills, coping strategies, or coaching toward concrete life changes.
How Matthew uses evidence-based methods in online work
Matthew draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help people handle stress, anxiety, and relationship problems. One common approach focuses on building practical coping skills and behavior changes that reduce anxiety and improve daily functioning. Another approach targets communication and interaction patterns to help people manage conflict and develop clearer expectations in relationships.Deciding which approach to use is a collaborative process. Matthew will talk with each person about their goals, needs, and preferences and then suggest methods that fit those priorities. The plan can be adjusted as progress is tracked and new concerns arise.
Session formats are not listed in the biography, so confirm current online options before booking. In general, online work can make it easier to fit regular sessions around school, work, or caregiving. It can also allow for shorter check-ins when time is tight, or sessions without video if bandwidth is limited. Licensed professionals, including Matthew, can help arrange a schedule that fits everyday life while focusing on practical steps and skills.
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 issues does he address for young adults?
He helps with stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, anger, motivation, self-esteem, and life transitions common in early adulthood.
How would he describe his therapeutic style?
He uses direct, practical conversations focused on goals and problem solving rather than abstract theory.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has 22 years of professional experience working with adults in California settings.
What are his credentials and where is he based?
He is a California LMFT and practices in California.
Can I work with him if English isn’t my first language?
Sessions are offered in English.
Does he accept international clients?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are sessions paid for and what does it cost?
Cost varies by location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
What are the steps to begin working together?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy through BetterHelp is for adults aged 18 and over and is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the emergency numbers. Find someone else by name.