Michael Farina

Compassionate and dedicated Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey with a person-centered, empathetic approach to mental health care. Skilled in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to help clients navigate challenges, develop coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. Experienced in providing a supportive and safe environment to address anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.

Committed to fostering resilience and empowering clients on their journey to well-being.

Adjunct Faculty - Maestro University - TX

(2026-01)

• Facilitated fully online undergraduate Introduction to Psychology courses through the university's learning management system, ensuring an engaging and supportive virtual learning environment.
• Monitored and moderated asynchronous discussion boards, fostering meaningful student participation and promoting critical analysis of psychological concepts.
• Evaluated student performance by grading examinations, assignments, and discussion posts while providing timely, constructive feedback aligned with course objectives.
• Conducted proactive student outreach to encourage engagement, monitor academic progress, address concerns, and support student retention and success.

IIC Clinician - Progressive Option Support Services - NJ

(2023-01)

• Provide individual and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in their home environment, addressing emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans, utilizing evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed care strategies.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify client needs, strengths, and risk factors, ensuring appropriate interventions and referrals to community resources.
• Collaborate with care management organizations (CMOs), schools, medical providers, and other professionals to ensure coordinated care and support for clients.

School Psychologist - Newark Public Schools - NJ

(2008-10)

• Conducting full-battery Psychological evaluations
• Conducts structured observations and functional behavioral assessments
• Writing Individualized Education Plans
• Providing ongoing counseling and social emotional supports for students
• Monitoring special education services for a large urban school district
• Supporting families of children with disabilities through case management
• Worked on Preschool Team for 6 years; Elementary for 6 Years, High School for 5

Certified School Psychologist - Presence - CA, FL, NJ

(2021-10)

• Virtual Evaluations and Mental Health Provider

Child Development Specialist - LADACIN Network - NJ

(2016-03)

• Provides developmental intervention through the NJ Early Intervention System
• Conducts initial and exit BDI-2 evaluations and participates in IFSP meetings

PhD - Ed Leadership - Liberty University (2027)

MA - Clinical MHC - Southern New Hampshire University (2024)

MA - Psychology - Fairleigh Dickinson University (2008-12)

BA - Psychology - Montclair State University (2006-05)