Michelle Nickerson, LICSW

Owner / Therapist

For 25 years Michelle has worked in the non-profit sector providing therapeutic care to the most vulnerable, at-risk children and families in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.  Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), the ARC model (Attachment, Regulation, Competency) and Clinical Hypnosis, Michelle helps to develop strategies and assist with skill building to help clients find relief and to live a more satisfying and comfortable life.  Michelle received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of the Holy Cross and her Master's in Social Work from Boston College Graduate School of Social Work. She is licensed in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

Michelle is currently not accepting new clients
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Our Clinicians

Michele Bernbaum, LMHC

Michele’s approach to working with clients is strength-based and solution focused incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques.  Michele strives to develop a personal connection with each client and incorporate their strengths and interests into treatment. Having experience working in community and home-based settings, Michele has worked with vulnerable and at risk families for the past four years.  Michele received her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Cambridge College, her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Rhode Island and completed the Addictions Counselor Education Program at the University of Massachusetts.  

Michele is available Monday and Thursday evenings

Shannon Fitzgerald, LICSW

Shannon is a skilled clinician experienced in working with adolescent, young adult and adult populations.  Trained in trauma-informed care, Shannon is able to address issues related to attachment and early childhood experiences.  Shannon offers a safe, LBGTQ+ affirming space with expertise in working with persons struggling with identity related to sexuality, gender and the intersection of various stages of development and environment.  Shannon’s approach is open and flexible, based on the uniqueness of each person. Shannon is a graduate of Keene State College and received her Masters Degree from Wheelock College’s School of Social Work.  

Shannon is available Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings

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Michael Mayo, LICSW

Michael has significant experience working with adults with histories of trauma, inter-personal violence and PTSD. His approach focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship to establish trust and create lasting solutions that work. For the past three years, Michael has worked in Oncology as a Medical Social Worker and has prior experience as a community based Case Manager serving persons with an array of both physical and mental health needs. Michael graduated with a Master’s of Social Work from Simmons College and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Boston University. 

Michael is available Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings

Christine Ryan, LMHC, ATR-BC

​As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Christine enjoys working with clients of any age to help them address specific concerns to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. As a Board Certified Art Therapist, Christine often employs art as an alternative means of self-exploration and expression. Trained through Mindful Schools, she often utilizes mindfulness in her sessions. Christine aims to provide a positive and supportive atmosphere using a variety of approaches tailored to meet client needs. Christine holds a Masters of Science in Art Therapy/Counseling from the College of New Rochelle and a Bachelor’s of Science from Saint Michael’s College.
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Christine is currently not accepting new clients
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Kristianna Penman, LICSW

​Kristianna has over 10 years experience working in schools and community based settings using a strength based approach with children, youth and families.  Kristianna has been trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Psychological First Aid/Post Traumatic Stress Management and the ARC model (Attachment, Regulation Competency); she is also a certified trainer of Youth Mental Health First Aid and a graduate of the University of New Hampshire for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. Kristianna’s favorite part about working with children, youth and families is the honor to see the progress and growth that happen in small steps and everyday wins. With the support and collaboration of everyone involved in a child and family’s life some pretty beautiful things can happen! 

Kristianna is currently not accepting new clients

​12 Market Square, Suite 2
​Amesbury, MA 01913
(978) 903-2030
fax: (978) 903-6070
intake@findingsolace-ma.com