- Client-Centered Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Substance abuse recovery
About Stephen
Stephen Creel is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 24 years of clinical experience based in California. He draws on a long career working with people who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, and anger. Stephen uses straightforward conversation and practical tools to help people who are worn down by life changes, relationship strain, or recurring resentment.
Before becoming a therapist he worked as a musician in Hollywood. That time involved joy and excitement alongside disappointment and confusion. Those early years shaped how he listens now - paying attention to both what people say and how they got to that place.
Stephen earned a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University in 2001. Since then he has worked in residential rehab settings and in private practice. Much of his work has focused on substance abuse recovery, trauma, mood disorders, codependency, and process addictions.
In sessions he treats the relationship between feelings and beliefs. He helps people notice the self-critical ideas that often underlie anxiety, shame, or repeated anger. Then he uses talk-based methods and behavioral steps to test and change those beliefs.
Clients can expect a collaborative style. Stephen describes therapy as two people working together to identify what isn’t working and try practical ways to change it. He aims to help people reduce reactivity, repair communication, and find steadier ways of coping.
How his approaches translate to online work
Client-Centered Therapy focuses on the person’s experience and priorities. It involves listening closely, reflecting what’s said, and helping people name what matters. This approach helps when someone wants to understand why they lose patience or feel distant from others.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors connect. It breaks down reactions into small steps and tests different responses in everyday life. CBT is useful for anger that shows up as repeated patterns at work or home because it offers practical skills to notice triggers and try alternatives.
Stephen will work with clients to decide which approach fits best. Finding the right mix is collaborative - he assesses needs, goals, and preferences, then suggests ways to proceed. That process can include charting thoughts, practicing new responses, or addressing past trauma where it’s relevant.
Confirm the current session formats before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy routine, shorten check-ins, or avoid travel time. Talk with him about which session rhythm and setup would fit your schedule and the kind of progress you want to make.
Areas of expertise
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
24+ years
Listed in
California, Texas, Virginia
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does he address related to anger?
He works with stress, anxiety, anger, addictions, trauma, relationship strain, and related problems such as codependency and communication issues.
What style of therapy does he use?
His approach is collaborative and client-centered. He also uses cognitive behavioral techniques, EMDR, motivational interviewing, and trauma-focused work when appropriate.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has 24 years of clinical experience, including work in rehabs and private practice helping people with substance abuse, trauma, and mood disorders.
What are his credentials and where is he based?
He is an LMFT licensed in Texas and California and practices out of California.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the U.S. work with him?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are sessions priced?
Cost varies with location; sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I get started with him?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.