Marisela Cuellar-VanHouten , LMSW

Marisela Cuellar-VanHouten is a Michigan-licensed LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) with three decades of professional experience, including ten years focused on providing individual therapy. She works with people coping with trauma and abuse, motivation and self-esteem concerns, bipolar disorder, chronic illness and pain, caregiver burnout, dementia, and depression. Marisela approaches each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and she identifies as an LGBTQ+ ally while remaining mindful of how cultural background can shape treatment.

Her style is collaborative and adaptive - she tailors conversations and treatment plans to the unique needs of each individual rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. Marisela emphasizes empowering clients to take steps toward a more fulfilling and resilient life, acknowledging the courage it takes to begin that process. She offers steady support as people work through emotional challenges, rebuild confidence, and pursue meaningful change.

Throughout her practice she centers empathy and practical strategies, helping clients navigate both immediate concerns and longer-term goals. Marisela aims to create a therapeutic space where people feel seen, heard, and encouraged to move toward healthier patterns and greater well-being.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

Marisela integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients clarify what matters most to them and learn practical ways to accept difficult thoughts or feelings while taking value-guided action. ACT can be helpful for people facing anxiety, depression, and life transitions who want to live in line with their priorities.

She also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify unhelpful thought patterns and develop concrete skills for changing reactions and behaviors. CBT is often useful for managing stress, mood difficulties, and relationship challenges by teaching tools for problem solving and emotional regulation.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Marisela works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit their goals, preferences, and needs. She draws on multiple techniques and adapts them over time as progress and circumstances evolve.

Online therapy with Marisela is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to increase flexibility and access. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, coordinate care when mobility or caregiving responsibilities are a factor, and maintain continuity of support from licensed professionals regardless of location.