Meet Dee

Clinic Director – Ellie Mental Health, Manhasset / Great Neck, NY

Nendler “Dee” Michel, LCSW, CASAC-Advanced, has spent over 20 years guiding individuals through life’s challenges. Specializing in trauma, mental health, and substance use, Dee is known for his relaxed, conversational style and whole-person approach, helping clients feel seen, heard, and supported every step of the way.

Learn more at Ellie Mental Health.

What inspired you to specialize in trauma work?

As a male in the mental health space with over 25 years in the human service industry, I quickly noticed the unique challenges men face, especially men of color (BIPOC).

My career has given me the privilege of working with people of every background, across gender, identity, socioeconomic class, and age. What I’ve found is that we’re all “uniquely the same.” We share the same basic needs, but we differ in how we try to meet them. That difference can shape our relationships and interactions, but trauma? That’s universal.

That understanding pushed me to dive deeper into trauma work, educating myself, and offering guidance from a place of professional knowledge and personal relatability.

What do you wish more people understood about the healing process?

I’ve worked with at-risk youth, justice-involved individuals, and those who’ve experienced significant Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). I’ve also worked with people who, on the surface, “have it all.” Surprisingly, their struggles often look remarkably similar.

The takeaway? Pain and healing don’t discriminate, our stories might differ, but the impact of trauma connects us.

What can someone do if they feel therapy “isn’t working” or they feel stuck?

One of Ellie Mental Health’s core values is Authenticity. As Clinic Director, I focus on making sure our team reflects the community we serve, so more people can find a therapist they truly connect with.

Research shows that your relationship with your therapist matters more than their degrees or years of experience. That connection is where healing starts. If you don’t feel that spark, it’s okay, healthy, even, to look for a better match.

What’s something you still struggle with, or continue to work on as a human being?

Finding balance. My mental and physical health, my faith, my family, my social life, my career, they all matter. Some days the balance feels perfect. Other days, it feels like starting from scratch. I’ve learned to fall in love with that process.

If you could offer just one sentence to someone in the thick of it right now, what would you say?

“You are not alone, & seeking help, is a sign of Wisdom, which IS  a sign of  strength.”

Where can people find you or learn more about your work?