Michael J. Hagan, M.A., M.Ed., LMFT-SUD Counselor

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #131272
Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor #11510

I offer a gentle, accepting environment to support individuals and families navigating challenges related to addiction, relationships, life transitions, parenting, and aging.

My passion is helping clients address issues connected to alcohol and drug use—my chosen area of specialization—while also working collaboratively to build resilience, strengthen relationships, and create meaning in life.

My approach is grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own life. My role is to listen for understanding, help you uncover your strengths, and support you in developing the skills to live a fulfilling and authentic life. There are many paths toward well-being, and together we will discover what works best for you.

Areas of Focus

• Substance use & addiction recovery
• Life transitions & aging
• Parenting & family dynamics
• Relationship challenges
• Stress management for professionals & leaders

Therapeutic Approaches

• Recovery Model of Addiction for Substance Abuse and/or Codependency
• Motivational Interviewing
• Relapse Prevention
• Existential Therapy
• Positive Psychology
• Humanistic & Client-Centered Therapy
• 12-Step Facilitation (TSF)
• SMART Recovery Facilitation (based in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy)
• Reminiscence Therapy (RT)

Background & Experience

I hold an MA in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, along with two master’s degrees in Education. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor (SUDCC).

In addition, I am a certified educator with decades of experience teaching all ages, from preschool to graduate school. Currently, I teach in downtown San Diego, guiding graduate students preparing to become licensed therapists.

Before becoming a psychotherapist, I worked as an accountant, teacher, parent educator, and school director. As a therapist, I have worked extensively with parents, teachers, and business leaders to manage stress, improve relationships, and build meaningful lives.

I have also traveled nationally and internationally, presenting educational programs throughout the U.S., Australia, and China.

Personal Note

I’ve been married for 38 years, raised three children, and lived in nine different states. I love spending time with family, being in nature, scuba diving, and caring for animals—especially my two rescue dogs, Bear and Freya, and my semi-feral cats, Bender and Fry.

My pronouns are he/him/his.