Mary Cunniffe, LMSW

You really can have a better life! By seeking professional help, you are improving your chances of getting there.  I consider myself compassionate, practical and non-judgemental. I am warm and easy to talk to both because 'I have been there' and because I really do care about my clients. My mother with cerebral palsy was a therapist herself.  She always emphasized that therapy should be considered the client's journey to a better life with the therapist acting as a skilled and compassion companion.  In my 25 years as a therapist, this attitude has allowed me to maintain respect for each of my clients as partners in growth and healing.

I received my Masters degree at the University of Washington in Seattle. I graduated with magna cum laude honors and Phi Beta Kappa recommendations from two professors. I have worked with many different populations including but not limited to adults, married couples, people with physical and mental challenges and the elderly.  I have worked on projects funded by such institutions as the National Institute of Health, the Multiple Sclerosis Society and Detroit-Wayne County Mental Health Authority. I have worked on extended grants for research and published papers that won national and international awards. I didn't seek out any recognition out but my passion for directly helping people made up a significant component of those reserarch successes. Most recently, I have worked in community mental health in Michigan serving clients with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and a variety of differing diagnoses'.  I have worked with couples, families and individuals, the able bodied and those suffering with serous illnesses and disabilities.  

My continuing education, training and experience has allowed me to draw from a wide range of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and spiritual perspectives among so many others.  I value human life. I like people. I hope that I can help you achieve improvement, confidence, peace and dignity on your ‘journey!’  Welcome!