Michael Herman
LMSW
Michael’s path to becoming a therapist has been shaped by curiosity, creativity, and personal healing. Before entering the mental health field, he earned a BA in Applied Economics from Cornell and worked at Microsoft. But a deep fascination with human behavior—and his own experiences navigating OCD and intergenerational trauma as an adopted descendant of Holocaust survivors—compelled him to explore mental health more fully. Through the roles of crisis counselor, moral psychology researcher, and behavioral scientist, Michael ultimately found his home in clinical social work, attending graduate school while working full-time.
When not working, Michael can often be found on wheels: his skateboard, bicycle, or motorcycle.
Approach & Values
In sessions, Michael brings a thoughtful, compassionate presence grounded in both science and soul. He integrates evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, ACT, ERP, and psychoanalysis, drawing from a wide range of influences that include, for example, Jewish and Buddhist contemplative traditions and the arts.
An artist himself (through banjo, drums, and poetry), Michael sees creativity as a powerful lens through which to make sense of life’s complexities and contradictions. His clinical practice helps people not only develop the tools to manage what feels unmanageable, but also to explore the deeper meanings behind their challenges.
Specialties:
- Anxiety, Depression & Stress Management
- Grief, Loss & Longing
- OCD & Rumination
- Mindfulness practice & spirituality
- Creative “blocks”
- Life transitions & Resilience
- Relationships & Interpersonal conflict
- Post-traumatic Growth
- Career Direction & Satisfaction