I’ve worked as a clinical social worker and psychotherapist for over 20 years; recently participated in a “life coaching,” training program, and have also worn many other “hats” along life’s journey thus far. I grew up (literally) on Eastern Michigan University’s campus, and went on to undergraduate studies there, culminating in a Bachelor of Science and Social Work degree in 1994, with a strong focus in psychology. In 2002, I obtained my Master of Social Work from University of Michigan School of Social work, with Interpersonal Practice and Mental Health concentrations; I was fortunate to participate in excellent internship training at the U of M Psychological Clinic doing psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy.
I enjoy my role as a psychotherapist, and have held positions in numerous areas that lend me a versatile wealth of experience to draw upon in my work. Initially I became a primary therapist and Dawn Farm residential treatment program for individuals with substance abuse and addiction problems. I held positions at Washtenaw County Community Mental Health for a number of years: Case Manager, Court Liaison between the agency and individuals needing psychiatric hospitalization for self-harm and suicidality; Mental Health Professional at University of Michigan Psychiatric Emergency Services; and Therapist on the agency Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT); Unit. Interested in adolescent and young women’s struggles, I also worked as a Childbirth, Childhood developmental, and parenting Counselor for at risk teens. I held a Therapist position for children and adolescent victims of trauma and provided family counseling as well.
Some of my other “hats” include a broad background in the medical field: Respiratory Therapy, Endoscopy Assistant; scrub nurse in St. Joe’s Labor and Delivery unit. I owned my own child care business, worked as an elementary and high school substitute teacher and classroom assistant for students with autism and special needs. I’m also a mother of four great kids, most of them grownups now.
Often adding their therapeutic personalities to our work are my two small “fur babies,” Odin and Lucy – Cavalier King Charles Spaniels; of course only if you are comfortable with canine friends; they are content to be in the background.

Brenda Scotton
Owner and President