Michael Boerst, MSW, LSW

Hello — I’m Michael Boerst, a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in Illinois, and I provide therapy both in person at our Bolingbrook office and through online/virtual therapy across Illinois. I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating grief, trauma, addiction, and life transitions, and I bring a creative, grounded approach to therapy that honors each client’s unique experience. 

Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a veterinary technician, a role that deeply shaped how I understand grief, attachment, and loss. That background continues to inform my clinical work today — especially when supporting clients through pet loss, a form of grief that is often deeply felt yet frequently misunderstood or minimized. 

Michael at a Glance 

I work best with individuals, couples, and families who are: 

• Navigating grief and loss, including pet loss 
• Impacted by trauma or difficult life experiences 
• Struggling with addiction or substance use concerns 
• Seeking support around men’s issues, identity, or emotional expression
• Wanting a therapist who is thoughtful, creative, and collaborative 

I offer: 

• In-person therapy in Bolingbrook 
• Online therapy and virtual counseling across Illinois 

My Approach to Therapy 

When you begin therapy with me — whether in person or through online therapy — my goal is to create a space that feels genuine, supportive, and flexible. I understand that people come to therapy with different comfort levels, expectations, and ways of expressing themselves. Because of this, I tailor my approach to fit you, rather than expecting you to fit into a rigid model of therapy. 

I believe creativity can be a powerful tool in healing. Therapy with me may include reflective conversation, experiential techniques, or creative approaches that help you access emotions and insights that are sometimes difficult to put into words. This doesn’t mean therapy has to feel “artistic” — it means we find the methods that resonate most naturally with you. 

Who I Work With 

Many of the clients I support come to therapy feeling: 

• Overwhelmed by grief or unresolved loss 
• Stuck in patterns related to trauma or addiction 
• Disconnected from themselves or their relationships 
• Unsure how to express emotions, especially during major life changes 

I work with individuals, couples, and families, and I have a particular interest in supporting men who may feel unsure how to talk about emotions, stress, or vulnerability. Therapy can be a space to redefine what strength looks like and build healthier ways of coping and connecting. 

Clinical Focus & Areas of Support 

My clinical areas of focus include: 

• Grief and loss, including the loss of a beloved pet 
• Addiction and substance use concerns
• Trauma and recovery 
• Couples and family therapy 
• Men’s issues, identity, and emotional expression 

My background as a veterinary technician gives me a unique perspective on grief — particularly pet loss — and I deeply respect the bond between people and animals. I strive to validate this experience and help clients process loss in a way that feels meaningful and honoring. 

In-Person & Online Therapy 

I provide in-person therapy in Bolingbrook as well as virtual therapy across Illinois. Online therapy can be a helpful option for clients balancing busy schedules, transportation challenges, or a preference for meeting from home. As a virtual therapist, I work to ensure that therapy remains engaging, connected, and grounded, regardless of the format. 

Whether we meet in person or online, I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship where you feel heard, supported, and respected. 

My Philosophy 

I believe therapy works best when it is collaborative, flexible, and human. Healing doesn’t look the same for everyone, and progress often happens in small, meaningful steps. My role as a therapist is to walk alongside you, helping you make sense of your experiences, strengthen coping skills, and reconnect with what matters most to you. 

If you’re seeking a therapist in Bolingbrook or a virtual therapist in Illinois who understands grief, trauma, addiction, and the importance of creative expression, I would welcome the opportunity to support you. 

You don’t have to carry this alone — therapy can be a space for understanding, healing, and growth.