“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.”

Anais Nin

“What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.”

Lao Tzu

"Begin doing what you want to do now. We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hands, and melting like a snowflake."

Francis Bacon, Sr.

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

Brenda Scotton

Owner and President

I am honored to journey with you and anticipate a meaningful and glorious experience in the continuation of your Story, whatever that story may be.