I’m ecstatic to introduce Michele Gerrits-Faeges, LISW-S.
I met Michele working one of my first jobs as a masters-level psychotherapist or licensed independent social worker. That was twenty years ago in an intensive treatment unit for children and adolescents. Two strangers in a lock down facility, I knew she had something to teach me. Both clinically and personally, she mentored me in emotional regulation skills, communication skills, and family systems knowledge. A survivor of trauma myself, I leaned into Michele to teach me how to communicate effectively, not defensively, and mitigate my anxious thinking errors. A therapist therapizing a therapist; yes.
Being a true social worker is what I appreciate most about Michele; her tenacity to advocate for change and her knowledge of multiple levels of systems.
Please read Michele’s bio:
Michele holds an undergraduate degree in psychology from Florida State University (1988) and an MSW from Barry University (1994). Michele’s social work career speaks for itself. Her scope of delivery is diversified and her formal education specialized; she has many years of experience and can assess the psychological, social, emotional, familial and educational needs of children & adolescents. She has extensive experience navigating educational systems and social service agencies.
Early in her professional career, Michele worked as a teacher for a private school In Miami, Fl. that focused on learning differentials and helped children reach their potential. Because of her years of experience, Michele can provide seasoned clinical opinions regarding family/child concerns and how to best engage a school/community setting. She has strong clinical knowledge of child development and family systems theories, using the empirically proven approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
A true social worker, Michele works hard to help her clients/families be their best self. Her work experience in case management, residential stabilization units, community mental health, and clinical supervision in all of these areas gives her a strong foundation in her work commitment.
What motivates Michele is her belief that humans are inherently good and she believes “Everyone is working on something.” Michele has agreed to help me pursue a lifetime goal, to operate a mental health private practice that focuses on the whole, not just the parts.
If you and/or your child/adolescent want to explore how mental health and family systems are interdependent, make an appointment to see her. If you are struggling with life issues that are affecting the family, reach out to see if Michele can help. If you are uncertain about your mood shifts, change in attitude and life stressors, schedule time with her. She is currently seeing clients on Thursdays and is available by telehealth or in person by appointment through Figure & Ground Counseling, LLC. Ask about our Covid Policy for mitigating risks.
