Michaela Cassella, MA, MHC-LP

About Michaela

Michaela Cassella is a Mental Health Counselor (MHC-LP) working under the supervision of Dr. Robert Goldman. In 2022, she graduated cum laude from the University of Delaware, earning two Bachelor of Arts Honors degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology. Furthering her academic career, she graduated with distinction from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, earning her Master of Arts degree in Forensic Mental Health Counseling. Michaela is currently working toward licensure for mental health counseling (LMHC).

At the core of her therapeutic practice, Michaela recognizes that the patient is the expert of their own life experience and emotions. She believes counseling can help navigate the complexities that come with life's challenges in a safe and healthy manner. Combining trained experience and evidence-based approaches, she is dedicated to creating a space that allows for the exploration and understanding of difficult thoughts, feelings, and personal struggles free of judgement and harsh criticism.

Using a patient-centered approach, Michaela's therapeutic style is empathetic and collaborative — honoring her patients' wisdom and perspective — as well as direct and challenging at times. This can require the patient to confront themselves in a way that may surface uncomfortable feelings, but is necessary for positive growth and change.

Areas of focus

• Anxiety
• ADHD
• Depression
• Stress
• Interpersonal conflict
• Trauma & PTSD
• Life transitions
• Low self-esteem
• Addiction

Approach & methods

Michaela integrates several empirically sound approaches while employing a multicultural, intersectional, and trauma-informed framework. She works with children, teens, and adults on both the individual and group level.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Psychodynamic Therapy

Education & credentials