Michael Boykin (he/him)

AMFT #143478, APCC #15407, Supervised by Ellen Ottman, LMFT #124702

Person wearing glasses and a brown jacket standing in front of a green leafy wall.

Turning to therapy is an act of self-empowerment. And, more often than not, I find that we already have the answers we’re seeking within us. My role as a therapist is to join you in making sense of what has brought you to this moment to inform how you move forward.

My approach is psychodynamic and highly relational, blending humor, warmth, and directness. I empower people through collaborative, culturally-sensitive therapy to foster self-awareness, growth, and healing.

In my practice, I support teens and adults in unpacking, making sense of, and growing from their past and present life challenges. We work together to re-author limiting narratives, uncover hidden strengths, and build resilience.

I also work with couples and others in relationships seeking to disrupt dysfunctional patterns, improve communication, and enhance connection.

Specialties:

Schedule a Consultation With Michael

FAQs

  • Individual Therapy $180/session

    Couples Therapy $210/session

    I’m out-of-network and can provide superbills for possible reimbursement. I keep a limited number of sliding-scale spots based on need and schedule. Please reach out for my current fee and openings.

  • I work with teens and adults—often men and boys of color—navigating anxiety, depression, burnout and stress, questions around sexuality and gender, identity and masculinity, life transitions, and relationship challenges. I also see couples seeking to interrupt unhelpful patterns, improve communication, and rebuild connection.

  • I’m psychodynamic and relational. I show up with humor, warmth, and directness to explore how past experiences shape present struggles. Together we re-author limiting narratives, surface strengths, and chart a path forward through collaborative, culturally responsive work.

  • Yes. Many of my clients are men and boys of color processing anxiety, depression, racial stress, identity, and masculinity. We create space for vulnerability, clarify values, and build tools that support you in showing up authentically—in relationships, school, work, and community.

  • I offer affirming, culturally sensitive care. We’ll explore identity with curiosity, reduce shame, and align choices with your values and safety. If relevant, we can plan conversations with loved ones and build support systems that honor who you are.

  • Yes. I help partners identify the cycle they get stuck in, improve communication, repair after conflict, and strengthen connection. We’ll practice skills in session and translate them into daily life, at a pace that feels doable for both of you.

  • Yes. I offer secure telehealth anywhere in California. If you’re seeking in-person options, let me know and I’ll share current availability within our practice.

  • Schedule a free 15-minute consult. We’ll discuss fit, logistics, and goals, and outline a starting plan. If I’m not the best match, I’ll offer thoughtful referrals within our team or network.

Learn more about Michael

  • “Michael is authentic, collaborative, humorous, and direct in his approach. His curiosity comes through in every interaction, as does his affection for others and their experiences. You can tell he cares for his clients, and that he will go the extra mile!”

    - Olivia