Ellen Samimy, M.A., LMHC received her B.A. from Boston University (1990) and an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from University of Massachusetts (2007). Ellen has practiced clinical therapy and addiction treatment for over ten years in mental health centers, hospitals, inpatient and outpatient programs, and in private settings. Ellen has specialized in addiction treatment and family therapy. Her work has included inpatient and outpatient substance abuse counseling and recovery therapy for individuals, families and adolescents. She has worked with substance abusing adolescents, and is a GAIN Administrator and Local Trainer (Global Appraisal of Individual Needs).  Ellen is certified and experienced in conducting federally approved best-practice assessment tools such as the GAIN, and treatment protocols such as Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET). Ellen has assisted individuals and families affected by mental illness, trauma, substance abuse, homelessness, legal problems, academic issues and bullying. She has worked in many settings, including school-based counseling, in-home therapy, therapeutic foster care, clinic-based outpatient care and currently in private practice. Ellen is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and serves on the local board of the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association (FMHCA). Professional involvements also include the Florida Medical Professionals Group (FMPG) and American Psychological Association (APA).