Our Master's Interns
Future professionals getting their start in the world
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Doaa
Kassem
Master's of Social Work Intern
Wayne State University
Gisell
Mora
Master's of Social Work Intern
University of Michigan -
​Ann Arbor
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Smaranda
Leu
M.A. Clinicial Mental Health Counseling Intern
Wayne State University
Emily
Jacoby
Master's of Social Work Intern
University of Michigan -
Ann Arbor
Jessica
Hill
M.A. Clinicial Mental Health Counseling Intern
Central Michigan University
Giselle
Strader
M.A. Clinicial Mental Health Counseling Intern
Central Michigan University
Lexie
Formanek
Master's of Social Work Intern
University of Michigan -
​Ann Arbor
Doaa Kassem
Master's of Social Work Intern
Wayne State University
Hello and welcome! I am a Master of Social Work student from Wayne State University, with a concentration in Interpersonal Practice. I bring strong skills in empathy, active listening, and communication, which help me connect with clients and foster a supportive environment. My clinical interests include working with individuals and groups who are experiencing challenges related to anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am currently exploring a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
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In addition to my training, I am fluent in Arabic and passionate about bridging the gap in mental health services for Arabic-speaking clients. I recognize the importance of culturally responsive care and hope to provide a safe and welcoming space for clients who may otherwise face barriers to accessing therapy in their own language. I am committed to creating a collaborative, client-centered process where individuals feel empowered to share their stories and work toward growth and healing at their own pace.
Emily Jacoby
Master's of Social Work Intern
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Welcome! I’m so happy you are here.
I’m currently pursuing my Master of Social Work at the University of Michigan with a concentration in Interpersonal Practice. I believe that every individual is the expert of their own life, and my goal is to create a supportive, inclusive space where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered to grow.
As I continue to grow as a clinician, my work focuses on supporting women, couples, and individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem challenges. I draw on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based interventions, while integrating mind-body awareness and wellness principles to support holistic healing.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process, one that invites self-discovery, healing, and growth. Whether you’re working through mental health challenges or navigating a season of transition, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey toward greater clarity and well-being.
Jessica Hill
Clinicial Mental Health Counseling Intern
Central Michigan University
My name is Jessica and I am a Clinical Mental Health Counseling intern currently pursuing my Master’s in Counseling and expect to graduate in May 2026. With a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Development, I bring an understanding of how early relationships and family dynamics shape who we become. My therapeutic approach is integrative, blending techniques from Somatic Experiencing, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), and Person-Centered therapy.
I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where you feel empowered to move toward your most authentic self. My practice is trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ affirming, with experience navigating anxiety, depression, grief, traumatic experiences, and challenges related to sexual and gender identity.
I believe therapy is a partnership built on authenticity and trust. Together we will explore the deeper meaning of your experiences, help you build healthy coping skills, and find greater clarity about your values. Healing is a complex and often uncomfortable journey that requires patience, reflection, and the courage to face difficult emotions - but you don’t have to do it alone.
Giselle Strader
Clinicial Mental Health Counseling Intern
Central Michigan University
My name is Giselle and I am working to earn my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Central Michigan University. I believe that our past experiences and our family life greatly shape who we are. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe and seen, and where you are free to be who you are. Sometimes, we’re faced with challenges that arise from those past experiences and we haven’t been given the tools to work through them. My focus is on building a therapeutic relationship that will give you that freedom to understand yourself and to live meaningfully.
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I am particularly drawn to the Adlerian approach and, more recently, to parts work. At the same time, I’m continuously strengthening my understanding of various theoretical frameworks to better support the diverse needs of my future clients. I am committed to creating an environment where you feel safe, heard, and respected. I am also passionate in making sure that I am culturally sensitive so that I can support you in the best way possible throughout this journey.
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It can be challenging to reach out, and it takes strength in doing so! Whether you are going through a difficult life transition or have been struggling with mental health for a while, I look forward to supporting you in your healing journey.
Gisell Mora
Master's of Social Work Intern
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Hello!
As a social work intern, I take a client-centered and strengths-based approach, focusing on empathy, collaboration, and meeting clients where they are. My goal is to create a warm, non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard and supported.
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I enjoy working with individuals who may be feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or navigating life transitions. Many clients I hope to support are seeking a safe space to better understand themselves and manage stress or emotional challenges.​​​​
Lexie Formanek
Master's of Social Work Intern
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
As a clinical intern, I am dedicated to supporting children and adolescents as they navigate the emotional, social, and academic challenges of growing up. I seek to work with young people facing anxiety, trauma, grief, identity-related stress, school difficulties, or struggles with emotional regulation, and I aim to offer a space where they feel understood and supported.
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I use trauma-informed, strengths-based, and culturally responsive approaches to meet each client where they are. My work focuses on helping youth build coping skills, strengthen their sense of self, and develop healthier relationships at home, at school, and in their communities. I also value collaboration with caregivers and support systems to create consistent and sustainable change.
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I know reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, and my style is warm, patient, and grounded in empathy. I strive to create a safe, validating space for young people to explore their experiences and grow. I welcome the opportunity to partner with you and your child on their path toward resilience and emotional well-being.
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Smaranda Leu
Master's of Social Work Intern
Wayne State University
My name is Smaranda, and I am a second-year MSW student at Wayne State University. I am passionate about supporting individuals through evidence-based and compassionate care. My goal is to meet each person where they are and support them in reaching the goals that matter most to them.
I am excited to join the team and develop my clinical interests in trauma-informed therapies and cognitive therapies like CBT and DBT. Our thoughts, even the small and fleeting, can impact our well-being and our ability to cope with life challenges. By exploring these patterns together, I hope to help clients build practical tools, discover new strengths, and move forward with resilience and self-compassion. I look forward to the opportunity to join you on your healing journey.