Identity Discovery. Financial Therapy. Recovery Coaching.

Michael Christian CilniS
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor

Michael Christian CilniS Licensed Professional Clinical CounselorMichael Christian CilniS Licensed Professional Clinical CounselorMichael Christian CilniS Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor

Michael Christian CilniS
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor

Michael Christian CilniS Licensed Professional Clinical CounselorMichael Christian CilniS Licensed Professional Clinical CounselorMichael Christian CilniS Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Schedule a Free Consultation

Awareness. Alignment. Action.

Awareness. Alignment. Action. Awareness. Alignment. Action. Awareness. Alignment. Action.

Transform your relationship with yourself, your money, and your wellbeing.

Welcome!

So here's the thing... I know that therapy is serious work BUT it doesn't always have to be heavy. You shouldn't dread going to therapy! And if that's how you feel, then we should talk about it - real change happens in a strong, trusting relationship where you feel safe, supported, and maybe even able to laugh a little along the way.


To me, therapy is a partnership—I'm here to challenge you, support you, and help you connect your past, present, and future. But, don't expect me to do the work for you - true, lasting change happens when you're motivated to do the work yourself. But, I will help you set achievable goals and provide accountability to keep you moving forward.


With me, you can expect honest conversations, a supportive space, and a push when needed. The goal is for you to develop greater insight and awareness, build better habits, and gain confidence to take control of your life. 

About Me:

Who I Am:

I’m a licensed professional clinical counselor and offer therapy services to clients in-person in Irvine, CA and via telehealth in the state of California. For clients outside of the state of California, I offer coaching services including Recovery Coaching and Financial Wellness Coaching—two areas that help bridge the emotional and practical sides of life, addressing how our histories and identities influence our habits, values, and sense of self-worth.

My Background:

I became a therapist because of the profound impact therapy had on my own life and wellbeing. Before entering the mental health field, I worked as an entertainment publicist in television, promoting shows such as American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance, and other major network programs. Later, at Viacom Media Networks, I oversaw publicity for series including Love & Hip Hop and Mob Wives. Those experiences taught me a great deal about storytelling, human behavior, and the complexities that exist behind the public image—all of which deepened my curiosity about people’s inner worlds and ultimately led me to the work I do today.

How I Work:

In my work, I value honesty, humor, and curiosity, and strive to create a space where clients can feel safe being their full selves. I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and I’m committed to providing care that is affirming, inclusive, and grounded in genuine connection.

How I Can HeLP:

Identity Development

I help clients struggling with self-image and self-esteem. Discover who you are beyond old stories and expectations. Together, we’ll explore your values, strengths, and goals — including how culture, relationships, or LGBTQ+ identity shape your experience — so you can live with more confidence and authenticity.

Recovery Coaching

I am especially passionate about working with people in all stages of recovery—whether newly sober or years into sobriety. Recovery is more than stopping a behavior — it’s building a life you actually want to live. I offer guidance, structure, and accountability to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. 

Financial Therapy

I hold an MBA and incorporate financial psychology to explore the emotional impact of money on well-being. Money isn’t just about numbers — it’s about emotions, identity, and relationships. I help clients understand the stories behind their financial choices and build healthier patterns around spending, saving, and earning.

Therapy With Me

My approach is insight-driven and practical, blending psychodynamic, attachment-based, and trauma-informed techniques. That means we’ll look at how your past experiences and early relationships may still be shaping how you think, feel, and connect with others today. Understanding those patterns helps you break cycles that no longer serve you and create new, healthier ways of relating—to yourself and to others.

EMDR

Instead of just talking about what happened, EMDR helps your brain reprocess painful memories so they feel less distressing and more manageable. Over time, the emotions, beliefs, and body sensations tied to those experiences lose their intensity, allowing space for healing, clarity, and self-compassion.



EMDR For Addiction

I’m trained not only in EMDR’s core protocol but also in DeTUR and CravEx, two specialized EMDR approaches designed to address addiction and compulsive behaviors. These methods help reduce cravings, manage triggers, and uncover the emotional roots that drive compulsive patterns—supporting long-term change and recovery that feels more natural and self-directed.

Rates:

Initial Consultation

15-minute initial consultation

Complimentary

I offer a complimentary 15-minute phone or video call consultation to help you decide whether we’re a good fit to work together. This brief call gives you a chance to share what you’re looking for in therapy, ask questions about my approach, and get a feel for how I work. It’s also an opportunity for me to learn more about your goals and determine if my expertise aligns with your needs. There’s no pressure to schedule—just a chance to connect and see what feels right for you.


Therapy (For CA Residents)

Individual Therapy

$225.00/ session

Individual psychotherapy sessions are 50 minutes. Treatment is tailored to each client’s needs and may include evidence-based approaches such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and EMDR. Sessions focus on improving insight, emotional regulation, and overall well-being within a safe, confidential, and collaborative environment. Sessions are offered in-person in Irvine, CA and via telehealth to clients within the state of CA.


Coaching (for clients outside of CA)

Coaching Services

$225.00/ session

Coaching sessions are 50–55 minutes and focus on personal growth, accountability, and practical change. Unlike therapy, coaching is present- and future-oriented, emphasizing goal-setting, behavioral strategies, and skill development rather than mental health treatment. I offer specialized services including recovery coaching and financial wellness coaching. Coaching is not a clinical service and is not eligible for insurance reimbursement.

Contact Me

Drop me a line, I'd love to hear from you!

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Michael Christian Cilnis, LPCC

Irvine, CA, USA

949-343-1910 michael@cilnistherapy.com LPCC CA18487

Copyright © 2025 Cilnis Therapy - All Rights Reserved.

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