Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision. Feeling understood, supported, and respected in therapy can make all the difference in the healing process. In this clinician spotlight, we introduce Dr. Matthew Fleming, Ph.D., LCP, and share insights into his therapeutic approach, what inspires his work, and what clients can expect when working with him.
What Inspired Dr. Fleming to Become a Therapist?
Dr. Fleming’s path to becoming a therapist began early. His interest in psychology started in high school and was further shaped by inspiring adjunct professors during his undergraduate studies—many of whom were clinical psychologists. These early influences helped solidify his passion for the field and his commitment to helping others through evidence-based mental health care.
Dr. Fleming’s Therapy Style and Approach
Dr. Fleming describes his approach as collaborative and practical. He works to provide clients with a variety of tools to help manage everyday challenges while recognizing that clients are the ultimate experts on their own lives.
Rather than a one-size-fits-all model, Dr. Fleming believes therapy should be flexible and responsive:
- Clients are encouraged to try different strategies
- Tools are adjusted based on what works best for the individual
- Client autonomy and choice are central to the process
This approach supports long-term growth and empowers clients to take an active role in their mental health journey.
Who Does Dr. Fleming Enjoy Working With?
Dr. Fleming particularly enjoys working with clients who are open to new perspectives and approaches—even if they have struggled with cognitive inflexibility in the past. He values curiosity, openness, and the willingness to experiment with new ways of thinking and coping.
What Can New Clients Expect in the First Session?
Dr. Fleming emphasizes that assessment drives treatment. Early sessions tend to be more structured and interactive, with a strong focus on understanding the client’s concerns, history, and goals.
In initial sessions, clients can expect:
- Thoughtful, in-depth questions
- Clear structure and direction
- Active therapist involvement
- A foundation for collaborative goal-setting
As therapy progresses and goals are met, sessions naturally become less structured and more client-led.
A Common Therapy Myth Dr. Fleming Wants to Debunk
One common myth Dr. Fleming often hears is: “A therapist can’t help me unless they’ve had the exact same problem I’ve had.”
He compares this belief to assuming only doctors who have personally experienced an illness can treat it. While no therapist can fully understand every nuance of another person’s pain or trauma, a well-trained, empathetic clinician can still provide effective, meaningful support.
Therapy is a collaborative process, and clients play an important role in helping their therapist understand their lived experiences.
Three Words That Describe Dr. Fleming as a Therapist
- Empathetic
- Thoughtful
- Responsible
These qualities guide his clinical work and his commitment to ethical, client-centered care.
What Dr. Fleming Wishes People Knew About Mental Health
Dr. Fleming emphasizes that there are many different paths to improving mental health. Therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and different clinicians bring different styles and approaches.
If someone has had a negative experience with therapy in the past, that doesn’t mean therapy can’t help—it may simply mean a different provider or approach is needed.
How Dr. Fleming Practices Self-Care
Like many therapists, Dr. Fleming values balance outside of work. His self-care includes:
- Playing video games
- Playing guitar
- Wood carving
- Casual indoor biking
- Watching shows
These activities help him recharge and stay grounded.
A Few Fun Facts About Dr. Fleming
- His go-to comfort content includes Hot Ones, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, alternative playlists across decades, and Cool Zone Media podcasts.
- One surprising fact: an oil painting he created at the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts was loaned to the South Carolina Congress and never returned.
- One thing that grounds him? His children groaning at his bad puns.
- On days off, you’ll often find him exercising or baking sourdough bread—something his self-proclaimed “bread snob” family strongly approves of.
The Best Part of Being a Therapist
For Dr. Fleming, the most rewarding part of therapy is seeing clients become visibly happier and more relaxed as things begin to click. Witnessing growth, insight, and emotional relief is what makes the work meaningful.
A Message for Clients
Dr. Fleming wants clients to know that help is available. If a therapist isn’t the right fit, it’s okay—and encouraged—to seek another provider. Finding the right therapeutic match is an important part of effective treatment.
Therapy with Dr. Matthew Fleming at Rosecrans & Associates
Dr. Matthew Fleming, Ph.D., LCP, provides compassionate, structured, and client-centered therapy at Rosecrans & Associates. He works with individuals and couples seeking practical tools, cognitive flexibility, and meaningful change.
If you’re considering therapy or looking for a provider who values collaboration and thoughtful care, contact Rosecrans & Associates today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Fleming and take the next step toward improved mental health.