- Grief and loss
- Compassion fatigue
- Guilt and shame
About Michael
Michael Demoratz is a California LCSW with 40 years of clinical experience. He works with people facing grief, loss, depression, and compassion fatigue. He also addresses concerns around aging, cancer, caregiving stress, chronic illness and pain, and issues of forgiveness, guilt and shame.
He has particular experience with end-of-life care and has published on related topics. He also offers a series of free videos on YouTu.be at the handle Dying101 that explain practical aspects of hospice and end-of-life planning.
In sessions he listens carefully and adapts conversation to each person's needs. He aims to make practical steps clear and manageable. Conversations focus on what is happening now and what small changes could ease daily strain.
He uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address grief, depression, and caregiver stress. That can include working through difficult memories, practicing ways to reduce emotional overload, and developing coping strategies for chronic illness and loss.
Michael frames therapy as a collaborative process. He helps people sort through complex feelings such as guilt or shame without promising a quick fix. People who contact him typically start by describing the problem they want to address and then make a plan together for next steps.
Evidence-based approaches and online sessions
Michael uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address grief, depression, and caregiver stress. One common approach focuses on processing loss through guided conversation and memory work, helping people organize their thoughts and make sense of what happened. Another approach involves practical coping skills and behavioral strategies that reduce emotional overload and improve daily functioning for those with chronic illness or caregiving roles.Choosing the right approach is part of the work. He will discuss different techniques and together decide which best fits the client's needs, goals, and preferences. The therapist frames this as a collaborative process where adjustments are made based on what helps in practice.
The biography does not list specific session formats, so confirm current online offerings before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy life, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. It can also be useful when mobility, caregiving duties, or medical appointments make in-person visits difficult. Ask about the available session options when you complete the matching questionnaire so you can plan what works best for your routine.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Experience
40+ years
Listed in
California
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What issues does he help with?
He works with grief, loss, depression, and compassion fatigue and also addresses caregiving stress, chronic illness and pain, end-of-life concerns, forgiveness, guilt and shame.
How does he approach feelings of guilt or shame?
He uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques and conversational work to help people name and examine those feelings and to try practical steps that reduce their day-to-day impact.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He brings 40 years of professional experience working with loss, end-of-life care, and related emotional challenges.
What are his credentials and where is he based?
He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in California and practices from that state.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people from other countries work with him?
He is not accepting international clients at this time.
What session formats are available?
The biography does not list specific session formats; please confirm current session options before booking.
How does the payment and first session process work?
Cost varies with location and uses a subscription that can be canceled at any time. To begin, use the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, use the crisis numbers.