Let’s Find Your Path
Our Mission
Everyone goes through times in their life when the world seems as if it is a shade of gray. Whether you are entering into a new season of life, searching to find yourself within a new role, or something in between, these circumstances may seem too overwhelming to face on your own. You may even be asking yourself:
When will life feel familiar again? Why is it so hard to make decisions? How can I be my best self? When will this sadness go away? Why is it so hard for me to sleep or keep a healthy lifestyle? Will these feelings of nervousness and worry ever go away?
Our mission at Grace Street Counseling is to provide empowerment through professional services to people who are struggling with challenges in their life. We believe that the therapeutic relationship is one that should foster respect, trust, honesty, communication, positive change, and hope.
Michelle Friedman, LCSW, PMH-C
Director of Counseling
Hello and welcome! My name is Michelle and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional in the states of New York, Florida, and Rhode Island. For over 12 years, I have helped people in all different stages of life. In practice, I focus on person-centered, supportive approaches that highlight your personal strengths and needs. My training is in cognitive behavioral, solution focused, and mindfulness-based therapies with a background in trauma informed care.
I have specialized training in Maternal Mental Health as well as Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. I have a passion for helping women and families through their unique journey in pregnancy and the postpartum period which requires specialized support, resources, and interventions. 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression and other perinatal mood disorders. The road to parenthood may not be exactly what you were expecting. Uncertainty, depression, anxiety, isolation, infertility, traumatic experiences, and difficulties adjusting in relationships/new roles are all hard realities that many women (and their family's) face. Just remember with the right help you won't go through it alone and you can find your best self again!
Credentials & Affiliations
LCSW Licenses
New York State
Florida State
Rhode Island State
Connecticut State
Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional (PMH-C) Advanced Training Certificate in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Postpartum Support International: Advanced Psychotherapy Training
National Association of Social workers Member (NASW)
RESOLVE New England Professional Member (RNE) Qualified Supervisor: Seminar in Field Instruction (SIFI)
2009 Stony Brook University, M.A. Social Work
2008 Stony Brook University, B.A. Social Work
Mara Carlini, MSAOM
Practice Coordinator
Hi, I’m Mara! I’m excited by the mission of Grace Street Counseling because I believe healing and inner-strength are essential to living our best life. I look forward to helping you join our community with kindness, compassion, and hope. Every story is unique, and we are here for just that reason. I am a trained Acupuncture Physician with a Master’s in Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine from Northeast College of Health Sciences, and Artist with a Bachelor’s from Allegheny College; I also teach Yoga and Mandala creation.
I am inspired to help people find their physical, emotional, and spiritual balance. I live in Clearwater, Florida with my Husband, my golden Magnus, and my cat Gwennie.
I look forward to speaking with you and helping you on your journey!