I understand your story.
Meet Dr. Michael Murrell, Licensed Psychologist
If you’ve been living with anxiety or PTSD, you already know how heavy it can feel—mentally, emotionally, even physically. It can be isolating. Exhausting. And sometimes it’s hard to explain to people who haven’t been there. My work is built for people who are ready for real change and who want a higher level of care than the typical “one-size-fits-all” therapy experience.
I’m Dr. Michael Murrell, and I’m ranked among the top 1% of psychologists specializing in anxiety disorders. That ranking reflects what matters most to my clients: consistent outcomes, evidence-based treatment, and a deeply personal approach that meets you where you are—without judgment and without rushing the process.
Because I offer concierge-style care, I’m intentionally limited in how many clients I take. I see patients exclusively through secure telehealth sessions, and I only work with a small number of individuals at a time (I practice one day per week). That’s by design. It allows me to provide focused, high-touch support for people who are truly motivated to heal, rebuild confidence, and regain a steady sense of calm and control.
I also keep the process simple: I do not accept insurance. My practice is cash-only. For many people, that’s a relief—more privacy, fewer restrictions, and care that’s tailored to your needs rather than a billing code.
Finding the right psychologist is deeply personal, and research consistently shows that the connection between client and clinician is one of the strongest predictors of success. That’s why I offer a free 15-minute introductory consult. It’s a chance to meet, ask questions, and see if working together feels like the right fit.
If you’re considering getting started, I recommend beginning with my free quizzes. They’re a quick, private way to understand what you’re experiencing and what support might help most.
If you’re ready, I’d be honored to help you take the next step. Availability is limited, and openings don’t last long—so if this feels like the level of care you’ve been looking for, I encourage you to reach out.
What is your life story?
If you think of your life has a story, then what kind of story is it ? Every story as a beginning, a middle and an end. Where are you in your journey? Do you still have a child-like excitement for your life? Do you feel like the hero or the victim of your life? Are you struggling with anxiety, worry, insomnia and physical tension? Are you having panic attacks? Do you have issues that you are afraid to face? Are you struggling with depression and a pessimistic view of your life? Now can be a time to make a significant change in direction. Take a deep breath. Calm your body and mind. Change your focus from thinking about what you don’t want to a vision of what you most want. What specifically do you want your life to look and feel like next month? Next year? Then ask, “How do I make this vision a reality”? You don’t have to figure this out all by yourself. Two heads are better than one. If you want, we can work together to step by step bring your vision into reality. Why not increase your hope for the future, learn new techniques to engage and overcome challenges, and build your confidence to accomplish new goals? You have nothing to lose but your pain. Help is only a phone call or text away.
— Dr. Michael Murrell
A Little More About Me...
I grew up with traditional conservative values. At age 17, I was awarded my Eagle Scout Badge. From age 22 to 28, I was a Medic in the Army Reserves. I served proudly in the 325 Field Hospital located in Kansas City, MO. I completed my Master's Degree at Missouri State University before working as director of the Wellness program at Mercy Hospital for six years. I wrote a column for a local paper entitled "Because You're Worth It."
I started my private practice, Murrell Counseling Service LLC, in 1987 and returned to school at Forest Institute for my doctorate while working part-time in private practice. I began working with men and groups of men at Lakeland Regional Psychiatric Hospital. I earned my Psy. D. in 1996 and was licensed in 1997. My practice blossomed, and I added a psychiatrist and several other psychologists in the 1990s.
In 1996, I went through the training in EMDR to work specifically with clients who struggled with PTSD and Panic Disorder. EMDR is an unusually effective means of treating long-standing issues with anxiety.
In 2006, I began conducting evaluations of Veterans for the VA and continue to do that work to this day. In 2022, I opened an office in The Villages, Florida, and received my license as a Florida psychologist. I can now practice psychology in MO, Florida, and the 40+ states covered in the PSYPACT agreements.
I now practice in almost every state in the nation. I love being a psychologist and get a thrill in helping my clients successfully overcome their darkest fears and reclaim the life they are meant to live.
Two Case Histories…
John was a young, home health physical therapist who was initially very successful in his profession. However, in his second year of work, he developed disabling panic attacks whenever he drove more than a block away from his home. His panic symptoms were severe chest pains, breathing difficulty, and the feeling that he was about to die. After only ten E.M.D.R. sessions, his Panic Disorder was resolved. Complex PTSD is more difficult to treat.
For example, Mary joined the Navy in order to serve her country. There she married a fellow sailor, and then bad things began to happen to Mary. Her husband turned out to be a brutally abusive psychopath. Her daughter was killed and then Mary was gang raped. Eventually, she married a genuinely nice man. However, she still suffered panic attacks, nightmares, suicidal thoughts. She was admitted to a psych ward, barely able to speak or think. She had thirty-two shock therapy treatments before she was referred to me. After twenty-three sessions of E.M.D.R. therapy, Mary is now stable, happily married, and now enjoys making quilts for her family. Her Complex PTSD symptoms are completely resolved.
To learn about EMDR, go to http://www.EMDRIA.org.
Mission Statement
I am dedicated to being the person you turn to for understanding and support when it comes to panic attacks and PTSD. I am here to help you when you feel alone, afraid, or overwhelmed by the fear of imminent danger. When you struggle to breathe deeply and your heart races uncontrollably, or when past trauma continues to haunt you, I will be the one who truly "gets it." I will walk with you out of darkness into the light of a fulfilling and happy life, helping you find hope, strength, and confidence. This is my life's work.