Michael Chen
Mental Health Journalist
Michael Chen is an award-winning journalist specializing in mental health policy, research, and healthcare innovation. With over a decade of experience covering behavioral health for major publications, Michael brings rigorous reporting and accessible writing to complex mental health topics.
His work focuses on translating mental health research findings, policy changes, and industry developments into actionable information for people seeking care. Michael is passionate about improving mental health literacy and advocating for equitable access to quality mental health services.
Areas of Expertise
Mental Health Policy
Coverage of mental health legislation, parity laws, insurance policy changes, and advocacy efforts affecting access to care.
Research & Evidence
Translating complex research studies, clinical trials, and treatment effectiveness findings into accessible summaries.
Telehealth Innovation
Reporting on online therapy platforms, digital mental health tools, and the evolution of virtual care delivery.
Industry Trends
Analysis of mental health care trends, platform launches, mergers & acquisitions, and market developments.
Treatment Access
Investigative reporting on barriers to mental health care, insurance coverage gaps, and systemic challenges.
Healthcare Systems
Deep dives into how mental health care systems work, from community mental health centers to private practice.
Background & Experience
Professional Experience
- 10+ years covering mental health, behavioral health policy, and healthcare innovation
- Contributors to: Major healthcare publications, mental health advocacy organizations, and policy research institutes
- Specialized training in mental health reporting ethics, trauma-informed journalism, and health policy analysis
- Regular speaker at mental health conferences and journalism workshops
Education & Credentials
- M.A. in Journalism - Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism
- B.A. in Psychology - University of California, Berkeley
- Certificate - Rosalynn Carter Mental Health Journalism Fellowship
- Training - Mental Health First Aid, suicide prevention reporting guidelines
Writing Philosophy
"Mental health journalism has the power to change lives—by demystifying treatment, exposing systemic failures, and amplifying the voices of those who've been underserved. I believe everyone deserves accurate, accessible information to make informed decisions about their mental health care."
What Guides My Reporting:
- • Evidence-based: Grounding reporting in peer-reviewed research and expert sources
- • Ethical storytelling: Respecting privacy, avoiding stigma, and centering lived experience
- • Accessibility: Translating complex policy and research into clear, actionable information
- • Accountability: Investigating gaps in care, insurance denials, and systemic inequities
- • Solution-oriented: Highlighting innovations, best practices, and paths forward
Articles by Michael Chen
Michael's articles are currently in development. Upcoming pieces will cover:
- • Mental health parity enforcement: What's changed in 2025?
- • Inside the telehealth therapy boom: Quality vs. access
- • How new research is changing anxiety treatment
- • The real cost of therapy: Insurance coverage gaps exposed
- • AI in mental health care: Promise and pitfalls
- • What therapists wish patients knew about finding care
- • Breaking down the 988 crisis line rollout
- • Medicare mental health coverage: What seniors need to know
In the meantime, explore related topics below.