My Story

Brenda Ernst, LMSW-C Licensed Social Worker - Clinical & Macro - Social Worker

I am a compassionate and empowering licensed social worker who specializes in working with individuals, children, and adolescents. I bring over twenty-five years of experience in the educational field, along with extensive expertise in education, special education, child development, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Throughout my career, I have worked closely with students and clients with a wide range of needs, including—but not limited to—Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Cognitive Impairments, Learning Disabilities, and Speech and Language Impairments.

I possess extensive knowledge and hands-on experience with special education evaluations, the development and implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and the establishment of meaningful, measurable goals tailored to each student’s unique strengths and needs. I have a strong history of collaborating effectively with parents and caregivers, school staff, administrators, advocates, and outside agencies to ensure comprehensive, coordinated, and student-centered supports.

In addition to my educational work, I have significant experience supporting individuals facing challenges related to anger management, self-esteem, self-control, self-regulation, attention skills, grief and loss, and the development of healthy coping strategies. I also work with clients who have experienced divorce, loss, trauma, abuse, and many other challenges that life may bring. 

My therapeutic approach is solution-focused and client-centered, emphasizing empowerment and the development of strong self-determination skills. I strive to help clients build the tools necessary to foster independence, resilience, and long-term growth. Creating a safe, supportive environment that encourages positive thinking, problem-solving, and continued personal development is central to my work. I strongly value building meaningful therapeutic relationships, as trust and relational capacity are essential for growth and lasting change.

I attended Eastern Michigan University for my undergraduate school.  I also attended Wayne State University and completed my degree in the Advanced Standing Master’s Program. I hold a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Social Work and am licensed at both the Clinical and Macro levels. I also hold a Professional School Social Work Certificate in the State of Michigan.

My passion lies in helping clients develop practical tools that enable them to achieve independence and confidence. I believe that when individuals are equipped with the right skills and supports, they are able to feel empowered and are equipped to thrive in any circumstance they may encounter.