Birchwood Counseling
Hi There!
Michelle Ainsworth, MSW, LCSW, CYT is a child-centered licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience working with children and families. Through the use of play, art, and movement, Michelle is able to create activities and experiences that are both goal-directed and fun! Through her previous work with the state of Illinois’ Early Intervention program, she gained valuable knowledge and experience in the development of children. This has given her an excellent understanding of the developmental needs of children and a comfort level in working with young children with mental health and developmental needs.
A graduate of Aurora University with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work, Michelle has worked in a private practice setting for many years and has held the role of clinical director of a prominent child and family therapy organization. She has also worked as a school social worker at a therapeutic day school, specializing in children on the autism spectrum.
Michelle is a Certified Yoga Teacher and likes to incorporate yoga and breathing techniques into her work with children and adults. She believes strongly in the connection between the mind and the body and understands that in order to reach higher-level emotional goals, the client’s basic needs must be attended to first. She has worked alongside several occupational therapists and has an understanding of how sensory experiences can play a role in the behavior of children.
When she is not working, you may find Michelle spending time with her husband and children in the community or enjoying one of her hobbies. She is the mother of boy/girl twins and enjoys supporting them in their various extracurricular activities. She also has four furry babies – a dog named Coco and three cats named Hannah, Smokey & Bella. She enjoys yoga, standup paddleboarding, hiking, traveling, and reading.
Birchwood Counseling 