Patti Criswell, LMSW

Licensed Master Social Worker

I’ve been part of the CFPS family for more than 25 years specializing in working with girls and young women. I’m a strong advocate for “finding your voice” and learning crucial relationship skills early. I work primarily with those struggling with anxiety, depression and mood disorders. I’m trained in (and teach) all the major treatment models, so my goal is finding what works best for each person. As a Clinical Social Worker, I have a strength based perspective and I view therapy as a partnership. With younger clients, I believe families are an integral part of successful treatment. Lifestyle matters, and with young women, development and cultural expectations are also important considerations.

 In addition to my practice, I’m an award-winning author, and have written numerous non-fiction books for girls and their parents on topics related to growing up strong and healthy. I’ve been working with American Girl Company for more than 20 years. I’m passionate about girls and women’s issues and write and speak both nationally and internationally on topics such as anxiety, depression, relational aggression, body image and self-esteem issues. I appreciate the ability to share what I’ve learned from working with strong and resilient girls and women.

As a faculty member or instructor in the School of Social Work at Western Michigan University for nearly 15 years, I teach clinical coursework on the treatment of individuals and families. Being part of academia and mentoring students is exciting and inspiring. I have a strong “data driven” and “evidenced based” approach and a passion for continuing to learn and grow in my clinical work.

Personally, I’m married and have two grown children. I’m an avid traveler and a huge sports fan! I love to read, walk and try new things. I’m a proud yogi, and on weekends you’ll often find me trying new recipes on my friends and family.

Finally, I’ve learned some big truths in my years at CFPS. Perhaps the most important for me is that growing up is hard—for everyone—and having the opportunity and the ability to walk with someone through the storms, and watch them come out the other side stronger and more confident, has left me humbled and immensely grateful to do this work.

Services

• Individual therapy
• Family therapy

Adolescents (female) and adults

Specialties

• Girls’ and women’s issues
• Self-esteem
• Relationships
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Mood disorders

Please inquire about other specialty areas