Welcome. I’m happy to see you here.

Michelle Ficalora, CSWA

Mental Health Clinician Intern / Clinical Social Work Associate – Not Licensed

I am Michelle, an intern therapist.

Hi there! I’m Michelle Ficalora, and I’m a mental health clinician intern here at Positive Inner Self, working towards becoming an LCSW. I’m currently a Clinical Social Work Associate. My pronouns are she/they, and I am trauma-informed and LGBTQIA+ allied. I specialize in working with clients of all ages, helping to address both the symptoms and root causes of your stressors in individual or group sessions. I utilize interventions from DBT and Trauma-Focused CBT, as well as family systems therapy and narrative therapy. In practice, this translates to a holistic, autonomy-focused, and mindful approach, where I work alongside you in a way that highlights your strengths and interests. Together, we’ll ask questions to discover your goals, and I’ll help guide you on the way to reaching them, using humor, play, and light physical engagement to keep things moving.

I am certified in TF-CBT and am a member of the NASW, APS, as well as Phi Kappa Phi. I graduated from the University of Rochester in 2019 with a B.A. in Psychology and graduated from Fordham University in 2021 with a Master’s in Social Work. I spent my Master’s practicum during COVID-19 as a case manager for adults with disabilities and conducted biopsychosocial assessments and choice advising sessions to help guide clients toward their desired outcomes.

What can you expect when meeting with me?

I believe that for therapy to be effective, there needs to be a positive dynamic between the client and the therapist, and I strive to foster that relationship by meeting you where you are, both physically and emotionally. When we meet, you can expect to review your presenting concerns in a relaxed manner, as well as begin to identify treatment goals and develop a treatment plan – this will allow us to determine whether we are a good fit for one another. I look forward to meeting with you and being a part of your growth journey!

It’s important to find a therapist that’s a good fit. Here’s what you can expect if you come to see me!

Initially, we will meet to discuss your concerns and ensure that I am a good fit for your needs. We will go through the presenting issues and develop a treatment plan that meets your and your family’s needs. For young children, I will meet with the parents individually at first. I enjoy using humor and playfulness to create a relaxed environment.

Positive Inner Self

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