Background & Learnings

Michael J. Balaschi is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Massachusetts with deep personal and professional roots on the South Shore of Massachusetts. Growing up in this community and continuing to serve it throughout his career has shaped both his values and his approach to clinical work.

Michael earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Sociology from Southern New Hampshire University, where he developed a strong foundation in understanding individual behavior within broader social and systemic contexts. He went on to receive his Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California’s Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, where his training emphasized evidence-based practice, ethics, and culturally responsive care. He is now practicing as an established Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts.  

Professionally, Michael has worked as a licensed clinician in local community service agencies across the Cape & Islands and the South Shore, supporting clients with a wide range of mental health needs. He has also worked extensively within South Shore Massachusetts school systems, serving in both school social worker and school administrator roles. These experiences have given him a deep understanding of child, adolescent, and young adult development, as well as the academic, social, and emotional pressures facing students and families today.

Michael has been involved in sports throughout his life, experiences that strongly influence his work as a therapist. Through athletics, he learned the importance of discipline, teamwork, accountability, perseverance, and resilience, lessons that continue to inform how he supports clients in building skills, navigating challenges, and working toward meaningful goals. He understands the value of showing up consistently, putting in effort even when things feel difficult, and learning from setbacks.

Michael also values the role that travel and cultural experiences play in shaping perspective, empathy, and understanding. He has lived in Australia, volunteered in Haiti, and traveled to a wide range of locations including Bali, Cuba, Ireland, and other parts of Europe. These experiences have deepened his appreciation for cultural differences, resilience, and the many ways people navigate adversity and growth. They continue to inform his work as a therapist by reinforcing the importance of openness, humility, and meeting each individual within their unique life context.

At the core of Michael’s work are deeply held values, including family, patience, hard work, strong morals, and ethical practice. He believes meaningful change takes time, consistency, and a respectful therapeutic relationship built on trust and collaboration. His approach reflects a balance of structure and compassion, meeting clients where they are while supporting them in moving forward with confidence and integrity.