Today we’d like to introduce you to Stefanie Scalcucci.
Hi Stefanie , thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
In high school, I knew I wanted to attend college and go into a field that would allow me to help others in some capacity. I initially had hopes of becoming a dentist, but my plans changed (multiple times) during my four years at Michigan State University. In 2010, I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Specialization in Women, Gender, and Social Justice from MSU. I have my mother to thank for what came next—had she not been working as a school psychologist, I may never have discovered the field.
I continued my education at Wayne State University, where I received a Master’s degree and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in School and Community Psychology in 2013. This unique program also offered a pathway in clinical psychology, which I pursued. While working full-time as a School Psychology intern (2012-2013), I began the Ph.D. program in Educational Psychology at Wayne State and completed it in 2018.
As part of the program requirements and to qualify as a Limited Licensed Psychologist, I completed a 2,000-hour clinical internship as a home-based therapist at Monroe Community Mental Health Authority. To fulfill this, I took a year-long sabbatical (2016–2017) from my role as a nationally certified school psychologist. To advance to full licensure as a Psychologist, I then completed an additional 2,000-hour post-doctoral clinical internship. I used this opportunity to establish my private practice, Rivers Edge Psychological Services. Since 2021, I have continued to work full-time as a school psychologist and part-time as a fully licensed psychologist.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I often say that this journey required a great deal of blood, sweat, and tears. Along the way, there were many moments when I questioned whether all the time and effort would be worth it. I faced numerous challenges, though two stand out most. The first was doubting my own worth and abilities while pursuing my degrees and certifications. The second, which I continue to work on, is maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
When it comes to Rivers Edge Psychological Services, navigating the complexities of creating and running a business—purchasing and maintaining a building, and managing insurance companies—has been a significant learning curve. A persistent struggle is that the demand for mental health services far outweighs what I can provide at this time. I hope to recruit more therapists, but while I have been fortunate to hire a few amazing social workers I had previously known, it has been difficult to find additional qualified therapists. Space is another limitation, as my current building does not easily allow for expansion. At present, several barriers prevent me from purchasing another facility, though I remain optimistic about opening a second location in the future to expand accessibility to services.
Ultimately, with the unwavering support of my husband, the business has run relatively smoothly in retrospect—though not without hardship and sacrifice.
We’ve been impressed with Rivers Edge Psychological Services, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Rivers Edge Psychological Services is an outpatient behavioral health facility in Monroe, Michigan, where I serve as both the business owner and a therapist. All of our therapists, myself included, work with children, adolescents, and adults, using a multi-modal therapeutic approach tailored to each client’s unique needs. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which is particularly effective for clients who may not have responded to traditional psychotherapy. One feature that sets our practice apart is our recent addition of psychological evaluations to diagnose Intellectual Disability, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, as well as Depressive and Anxiety Disorders.
What I am most proud of, however, are our clients—their willingness to show up, do the hard work, and strive toward growth. Although I may be biased, I truly believe that anyone and everyone can benefit from therapy. I often compare it to going to the gym: you go to strengthen your physical health, and you go to therapy to strengthen your mental health. Mental health is health, and the mind-body connection is inseparable. Research consistently shows that poor mental health can significantly impact physical health and overall quality of life. Seeking support from a trained mental health professional is not a sign of weakness or evidence that something is “wrong” with you—it is a courageous step toward improving your well-being.
Finally, everyone comes to the table with a history. As humans, we can be quick to judge ourselves and others—but our first thought doesn’t have to be our last. Choose kindness and compassion, both toward yourself and those around you. Practice saying kind things to yourself and even smiling at your reflection in the mirror. Offer someone a genuine compliment. You never know when a small act of kindness might have a significant impact on someone else’s day. And please, if you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
When I was young, I was a bit shy, but over time I came out of my shell. I could be pretty goofy and loved making people laugh. Although my older brother and I didn’t have much in common because of our age difference, I always looked up to him. I would also describe myself as an active child—I enjoyed being outdoors, playing sports, and was always up for an adventure (and still am!). I loved animals, played the flute, and spent a lot of time listening to music. Like many teenagers, I went through a bit of a rebellious phase, but looking back, I see it as an important learning experience.
Pricing:
- Most major insurances accepted
- Cash accepted
Contact Info:
- Website: https://riversedgepc.com/
