Family therapy and counseling in Troy, MI

I currently reside in Northeast Michigan along the beautiful Lake Huron and have a license to practice in Michigan. I am passionate about supporting individuals on their journey toward self-understanding and an overall well-being. As a clinician, I believe in creating a safe, compassionate space where you feel heard and understood.

As a dedicated therapist with a master's degree in social work from Wayne State University. My mission is to empower clients to achieve mental clarity & emotional balance through proven therapeutic techniques and compassionate care to help clients achieve their goals with my genuine commitment, empathy, respect. My extensive training and experience have equipped me with skills to support clients mental health with various life changes, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, stress, and/or trauma.

A former client called me "endlessly chill." I am known to wear more sweatshirts than more "professional" attire. I don't want to give off any energy that I am better than anyone who sits across from me. I am known to swear in sessions (but I do filter this per client).

I am a calm, welcoming social worker that strives to create a space for all of my clients to find their true selves and create a life that works best for them

I graduated with my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Akron in 2011 specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and interpersonal relationships. Since that time I have worked in a variety of fields including community mental health services, foster care and adoption and in the schools. I am currently in my 5th year as a School Social Worker, where I service students Kindergarten through 12th grade. Starr Commonwealth Children of Trauma and Resilience Certification, a TRAILs School Partner that supports students with anxiety and depression, and IRRP Certified in Restorative Practices. I am experienced in Individual Education Plans, 504s as well as School Positive Behavior Intervention Plans to best support students with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and a variety of medical and behavioral needs.

For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they work toward healing, growth, and change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor, and Substance Abuse Professional, I bring both deep clinical knowledge and a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to therapy.

I specialize in helping clients navigate life’s most personal challenges—including relationship and intimacy concerns, life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, and mental health struggles. I also provide substance abuse treatment, DOT/SAP evaluations, and recovery support using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Reality Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, the Duluth Model, and the Matrix Model.

I have a special commitment to serving Black communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people living with HIV, re-entry populations, sex workers, and youth facing challenges. I understand how personal, cultural, and systemic factors shape each person’s story, and I create a safe, affirming space where clients feel truly seen and heard.

In our sessions, you can expect a respectful, judgment-free environment where your voice matters. I believe therapy works best as a partnership—we’ll set goals together, explore what’s holding you back, and develop practical strategies you can use in daily life a more fulfilling life. Whether you’re seeking support for a specific issue or simply want to invest in your personal growth, I’m here to help you take that next step.

With seven years of experience, I offer a compassionate but direct approach to therapy. I’m here to challenge, empower, and support you—especially when you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Together, we’ll focus on real progress in your life and relationships, with clarity, courage, and intention.

I listen, provide empathy in a way to make you feel empowered without judgement or negativity.

I’m Derrick Martinez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about helping men, teen boys, and couples build stronger connections, confidence, and clarity in their lives. I know how difficult it can feel to carry the weight of expectations, whether it’s navigating identity, balancing relationships, or facing challenges with communication and intimacy. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can be yourself and explore what matters most.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin and my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, where I specialized in integrated mental health and substance use. Over the past seven years, I’ve worked in schools, universities, community mental health agencies, and federally qualified health centers, supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults from diverse backgrounds.

I specialize in helping men and teen boys develop emotional insight, self-esteem, and purpose, and I work closely with couples to strengthen intimacy, improve communication, and rebuild trust. Currently, I am advancing my training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy to deepen my work with relationships.