Get to Know the McManus Team

Michael McManus, MSW, LICSW is President and Owner of McManus Counseling. He is a mental health therapist with a passion for helping adults, children, youth, and families. Over the last 20 years, Michael has served children and families in Massachusetts through various past positions in the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF), as the Director of Training and Technical Assistance in the Office of Foster Care and Adoption at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, and in private practice. His background in social work and his experience as a foster and adoptive parent inform his work. Michael is also a Senior Associate with MJ Henry and Associates, a practice-based education and consultation firm that specializes in education and consultation services for individuals and organizations working to support children, youth and families, especially those who have experienced adversity. He is also an Adjunct Professor of Sociology and Psychology at Becker College and frequent lecturer in the social work program at Wheelock College. Michael earned his bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Ithaca College and his Masters in Social Work from Springfield College. He is licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), the highest level of certification for social workers.

I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker with over 25 years of experience supporting children, families, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Clark University in 1997 and a Master’s in Social Work from Springfield College in 2007. In 2019, I completed a certificate in Trauma-Informed Practice from Bridgewater State University to deepen my understanding and skills in working with trauma. My approach centers on compassionate, active listening and helping clients set achievable goals to improve their current situation. I enjoy working with teenagers and adults who are navigating challenges related to depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, grief and loss, and everyday life stressors. What motivates me most is helping people identify their unique struggles and finding practical, effective ways to overcome them. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends and relaxing at the beach.

I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from Boston College and a passion for showing up for people—especially when things are tough. I’m excited to be part of the team at McManus Counseling, where I bring an eclectic, flexible approach to therapy that meets clients where they are. I primarily work with adults of all ages (from 20 to 200!) and have a particular interest in supporting those who might be labeled as “difficult” cases. I believe progress often begins by simply being present, listening without judgment, and staying curious about a person’s story. Sometimes, the most meaningful impact comes from just showing up when someone needs it most. Outside of the therapy room, I enjoy reading, keeping up with political podcasts, and spending quality time with my wife.

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Springfield College, earned in May 2007. For the past 27 years, I have devoted my career to protective social work with the state of Massachusetts, advocating for the safety and well-being of individuals and families. As a therapist, I believe every person has worth and the capacity to grow. I find deep motivation in the knowledge that people desire change and improvement, and I feel honored to walk alongside them in that journey. I strive to create a supportive, compassionate environment where clients—especially adolescents and young adults—can be themselves, feel heard, and begin to navigate life with greater clarity and confidence. I am passionate about expanding my clinical skills and staying open to new ideas, always seeking to better serve the individuals I work with. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy jewelry making, crocheting, and scrapbooking with my daughter—creative outlets that bring me joy and balance.

I have a Master's degrees in Public Policy and Social Work (MPP/MSW) from the University of Michigan, earned in 2000. I am a principal researcher at Mathematica, Inc, and in my spare time I support operations and finance at McManus Counseling. I am motivated by the support that our therapists offer their clients and want to make the experience of working and seeking care at McManus Counseling to be as stress-free as possible. Outside my professional life, I enjoy walking and spending time with my family and pets.

I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UMass Amherst and a Master’s in Social Work from Boston College. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to learn and grow through a variety of roles—working with adults with chronic mental illness, supporting children and families in outpatient settings, and serving as a school adjustment counselor at an elementary school. Now, I feel lucky to do both of my dream jobs: working as an outpatient therapist at McManus Counseling and continuing my work in a school setting. I bring an empathetic, easygoing approach to therapy, always aiming to create a safe, caring environment where clients feel heard and supported. I especially enjoy working with teens and young adults, meeting each person where they are and collaborating on treatment goals they feel connected to. What motivates me most is building relationships and watching individuals and families take meaningful steps toward growth and change. In my free time, I love to read, garden, hike with my dog, go to the gym, and spend time with my family—especially my nieces and nephews.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with degrees from Quinsigamond Community College and Anna Maria College. I’ve worked closely with adults diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness, helping them build the skills needed for more independent and fulfilling lives. Over the past several years, I’ve enjoyed working with children and adults with a strength-based, person-centered approach, always focused on meeting people where they are and supporting them in reaching their unique goals. My experience spans the full lifespan, and I find joy in helping individuals uncover their strengths—even the ones they didn’t know they had. I believe in being a steady support, a collaborative partner, and sometimes, a reminder to everyone that we’re all pretty awesome in our own way. Outside of work, I love spending time with my children, caring for my plants and pets, and getting creative with DIY projects.

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a strong foundation in counseling and social work. I earned my undergraduate degree in Sociology from Simmons College in Boston, followed by a Master’s degree in Elementary School Guidance and Counseling. I later completed a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work in West Hartford. Over the course of my career, I’ve had the privilege of working across a range of settings and was part of the team that helped create and establish a children's grief and support center in Worcester—a deeply meaningful chapter in my professional journey. As a clinician, I view therapy as a collaborative process. I strive to accompany clients on their path to self-improvement, offering guidance and support as they explore their thoughts, beliefs, and perceptions. My role is to help individuals make informed, empowered decisions aligned with their personal goals and values. I enjoy working with young adults, adults, and older adults, supporting clients through life’s challenges by focusing on problem solving, developing coping strategies, and using cognitive restructuring techniques. What continues to motivate me is the profound, positive impact of the therapeutic relationship—built on trust, openness, and the courage to grow.