David Hay, MSW/LLMSW

“A contributive life of giving hope to those who are suffering is a source of growth, fulfillment, learning, creativity, and solidarity.” — Daisaku Ikeda, Soka Gakkai International

As a licensed clinical social worker in Michigan, Ohio, Colorado, and Utah, I provide therapy for adults navigating anxiety, identity, life transitions, relationships, sexuality, and high levels of self-criticism. My style is direct yet compassionate — I believe in being transparent and honest while also offering deep empathy, nonjudgmental support, and a touch of humor. Clients often share that they feel both challenged and cared for in our work together.

I earned my Master of Social Work in Interpersonal Practice and Global Social Work from the University of Michigan and an MBA in Strategic Planning from the University of San Francisco. These dual degrees give me both the clinical expertise and the strategic perspective to help clients navigate complex challenges and life transitions.

My therapeutic work is grounded in evidence-based approaches and tailored to each individual’s needs. My orientation is informed by Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) and complemented by training in Attachment-Focused EMDR, Flash Technique, DBT, Family Systems, Play Therapy, and Sex-Positive Therapy. I am especially passionate about supporting individuals from diverse racial, cultural, religious, gender, and sexual orientation identities, including the LGBTQIA+ community. My goal is to help clients connect with their own values, build resilience, and move toward a more meaningful and authentic life.

My clinical training includes a placement at the University of Michigan–Dearborn’s Counseling and Psychological Services, working with undergraduate and graduate students, as well as a practicum with Berry Street’s Take Two program in Melbourne, Australia, where I focused on children and family systems. Beyond my clinical practice, I volunteer with the EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Program (HAP), providing support to first responders and trauma survivors.

I have also been deeply involved in activism, serving as a director and now an advisor with V-Day and helping to launch the One Billion Rising campaign, both global initiatives to end violence against women. In addition, I bring a diverse professional background in the performing arts, fashion, branding, and technology, which enriches my perspective as a therapist and allows me to bring creativity and openness to the healing process.

Age range served: Children, adolescents, adults

Specialties: Anxiety, coping skills, depression, grief, career challenges, cultural identity, life transitions, relationship issues, gender identity, spirituality, sex therapy, trauma, and PTSD.

Therapeutic Orientation: Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, Family Systems, and Sex Positive Therapy.

Therapeutic Modality: Individuals, couples, families, and groups.