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Matthew Esselstrom, LMFT

California LMFT with 22 years experience
  • Stress and anxiety support
  • Relationship and family work
  • Tailored compassionate care

About Matthew Esselstrom

Matthew Esselstrom is a California-licensed LMFT with 22 years of professional experience helping people move toward more satisfying and manageable lives. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Matthew draws on years of practice supporting clients with stress and anxiety, relationship concerns, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. He approaches each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, working to understand the unique circumstances that shape their challenges and goals.

Matthew customizes conversations and treatment plans to fit each client’s needs rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions. He emphasizes practical strategies alongside empathic support, helping clients identify steps they can take to reduce distress and build toward greater wellbeing. Seeking change takes courage, and Matthew is committed to providing steady encouragement and empowerment through that process.

Whether someone is navigating a difficult life transition, strained relationships, or persistent anxiety, Matthew aims to be a collaborative partner in exploring options and moving toward positive change. He focuses on tailoring care to each individual so therapy feels relevant, manageable, and aligned with the client’s values and goals.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes

Also Specializes In

AddictionsLGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersSleeping disordersParenting issuesCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderDepressionCoachingCompassion fatigueADHD

Additional Focus Areas

AbandonmentAntisocial personalityAttachment issuesAutism and Asperger SyndromeBlended family issuesCaregiver issues and stressCo-morbidityCodependencyCommitment issuesControl issuesCoping with natural or human-caused disasterDependent personalityDisruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)Divorce and separationDrug and alcohol addictionEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesFirst responder issuesForgivenessGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameImpulsivityInfidelityIntellectual disabilityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyMen's issuesMidlife crisisMood disordersNarcissismObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPanic disorder and panic attacksParanoiaPersonality disordersPhobiasProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Self-harmSelf-loveSocial anxiety and phobiaYoung adult issues

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Matthew Esselstrom have?

Matthew Esselstrom has 22 years of professional experience.

Is Matthew Esselstrom a licensed therapist?

Yes. He holds the LMFT credential, which stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. License details: CA LMFT 37943.

In which languages does Matthew Esselstrom provide therapy?

Therapy is provided in English.

Where is Matthew Esselstrom located?

Matthew is located in California.

How can I work with Matthew Esselstrom as my therapist?

You can work with Matthew Esselstrom through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Matthew Esselstrom work with international clients?

Matthew Esselstrom does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Matthew Esselstrom cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Evidence-Based Approaches and Online Care

Matthew uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques tailored to each client’s situation. He emphasizes structured skills-based interventions that teach practical strategies for managing stress, anxiety, anger, and sleep or motivation difficulties - these approaches help clients build coping skills and reduce daily distress. He also integrates relational and systemic work to address relationship, family, and intimacy concerns, focusing on communication, boundaries, and patterns that affect connection and trust. In addition, Matthew incorporates coaching-oriented strategies to support motivation, career questions, and self-esteem growth, helping clients set realistic goals and take incremental steps toward them.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Matthew collaborates with each client to identify which techniques fit their needs, goals, and preferences, and adjusts the plan as progress is made. This collaborative method ensures treatment remains relevant and practical for the client’s life.

Online therapy with Matthew is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, giving clients flexibility to engage in ways that suit their schedule and comfort level. These options make it easier to access licensed professionals from different locations and help maintain continuity of care during life transitions or busy periods.

Ready to start therapy with Matthew Esselstrom?

Take the first step toward a better you.