Mind Diagnostics is user-supported. If you buy through a link on the site, we earn a commission from BetterHelp at no cost to you. Learn More

Michael Pontello, LMFT

Experienced mental health professional

Provides online counseling through BetterHelp

At a glance

Michael is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.

4.5 stars
Clients are very satisfied with Michael. View 7 reviews
Great news, Michael is accepting new clients!
She is normally fully-booked.
Speaks English
Offers Telehealth visits
Licensed in Texas

Recent reviews

Michael is incredible, and has been a huge cornerstone to the shift in my life and moving forward.

Aug 2024

Michael is absolutely wonderful. She is one of the most kind and thoughtful people I have encountered. I have been in therapy for almost 2 decades and she is one of the best therapists I have had. 10/10 recommend.

Sep 2023

More about Michael

  • 15 years' experience
  • Female
  • LMFT

Hi! My name is Michael Pontello (she/her) and I am licensed in Texas with 14 years of professional work experience in the non-profit sector and am taking a new step in my journey as a therapist and supporting clients on the BetterHelp platform. I have a variety of experiences in helping diverse clients, especially those with lgbt-related issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Therapy and the conversations that take place in a therapeutic settings can be quite transformative and I aim to engage in those conversations with clients. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Specialties

LGBT Stress Anxiety Relationship issues Family conflicts Intimacy-related issues Self esteem Career difficulties Coping with life changes Coaching Aging and Geriatric Issues BDSM Kink Alternative Sex Culture Body image Communication problems Family of Origin Issues Family Problems Fatherhood Issues Forgiveness Gender Dysphoria Guilt and shame HIV / AIDS Hoarding Infidelity Jealousy Life purpose Men's issues Midlife crisis Polyamory / Nonmonogamous Relationships Self-love Sexuality Women's issues Workplace issues

Licenses

Michael Pontello's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is 1245741180.

  • LMFT · Texas · 201413 · Expires April 2025

About online counseling

Affordable.
Pay a low flat fee.
Convenient.
Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
Available now.
There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.

Online counseling allows you to receive care from a mental health practitioner via phone, video chat, or instant messaging. It is convenient for those who may have trouble getting to or would prefer not to have in-person therapy appointments. Starting at $65 per week, online counseling is generally more affordable than in-person counseling. A study by researchers at University of California, Berkeley found that online counseling can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy while being more convenient, affordable, and accessible.

Reviews for Michael Pontello

All reviews have been submitted by clients after seeing the provider.

Overall rating:

4.5

7 reviews

5
4
3
2
1

Clients mention: Recommend Thoughtful Easy Great Guidance Incredible Professional Support Thankful Wonderful

Michael is incredible, and has been a huge cornerstone to the shift in my life and moving forward.

Aug 2024

Michael is absolutely wonderful. She is one of the most kind and thoughtful people I have encountered. I have been in therapy for almost 2 decades and she is one of the best therapists I have had. 10/10 recommend.

Sep 2023

Michael has remained a pillar of support and guidance since the beginning of my counsel with her and has really brought hope back into myself. Not in the sense of everything is fixed, still a long road ahead for me in my mental health, but hope that I can find help in a unbiased and professional setting that offers positive acceptance and affirmation as I figure this out.

Aug 2023

I have only spent a few sessions so far with Michael so far, but already feel a connection with her. I have struggled with several therapists through telehealth and had only clicked with therapists in person. She is the first one online that I feel that click and am excited to work with her. She makes it easy to open and stay on the same page.

Apr 2023

She is absolute delight, catering to my various needs and concerns. I have loved working with her and am beyond thankful for her attention and respect towards me, my family, and my needs. Couldn't recommend more! ❤️

Mar 2023

It’s great

Jan 2023

Michael is a thoughtful listener who gives wise insight into the issues we discuss in our sessions.

Jan 2023

How was your experience with Michael?

Frequently asked questions

Does Michael Pontello offer telehealth visits?

Yes. Michael Pontello works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.

What language(s) does Michael Pontello speak?

Michael Pontello speaks English.

How many years of experience does Michael Pontello have?

Michael Pontello has 15 years of experience.

Where is Michael Pontello licensed to practice?

Michael Pontello is licensed to practice in Texas.

Does Michael Pontello accept clients outside of the United States?

No, Michael Pontello does not accept clients outside of the United States.

Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."

How can I communicate with Michael Pontello?

Michael Pontello can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.

How do I get started with Michael Pontello?

Just tap the CHAT NOW button or tap here: A new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation. Please note: It can take up to a few days to be matched to a therapist.

Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.

And recovery is possible.

Messaging
Live Chat
Phone
Video

When you tap CHAT NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.

Please note: It can take up to a few days to be matched to a therapist.