Profile Headshot

Mary Kay Brennan, DSW, LICSW — Faculty ; Clinical Professor ; Department of Social Work , College of Arts & Sciences ; Areas of Expertise: Psychotherapy with Individuals | Simulation-based Education & Training for Clinical Skills .

Clinical Professor

Biography

Mary Kay Brennan, DSW, LICSW, is a Clinical Professor. She received her MSW (clinical concentration) from University of Michigan and her doctorate in social work from University St. Thomas and St Catherine University School of Social Work. Dr. Brennan is trained in psychoanalytic psychotherapy and has over 20 years of experience in direct clinical social work practice and supervision prior to her academic career. She holds professional licensure for independent clinical practice and is an approved supervisor for licensure.

Dr. Brennan teaches courses in the BSW and MSW program on generalist and clinical practice with individuals, families, and groups; clinical assessment; HBSE and human development. Areas of clinical specialization include children’s mental health, play therapy, sexual abuse and trauma treatment, and crisis response within the school setting. Her research interests include the pedagogical application of social learning theory, reflective practice in clinical skill development, and the use of technology to enhance clinical proficiency.

Education

  • DSW, Social Work, University St. Thomas and St Catherine University School of Social Work
  • MSW, Clinical Concentration, University of Michigan
  • BA, Special Education, Western Michigan University

Courses Taught

Undergraduate - BSW

  • SOCW 1510 Introduction to Social Work / UCOR 1600 So You Want to Help?
  • SOCW 3010 Human Behavior in the Social Environment
  • SOCW 3020 Human Development and Social Work
  • SOCW 3110 Practice I: Social Work with Individuals and Families
  • SOCW 4110 Practice II: Social Work with Groups
  • SOCW 4310 Social Work with Children and Youth
  • SOCW 4510-30 Field Practicum
  • SOCW 4610-30 Integrative Field Education Seminar

Graduate - MSW

  • SOCW 5120 Generalist Practice II: Social Work with Groups
  • SOCW 5420 Social Work Research III: Program Evaluation
  • SOCW 5500 Advanced Field Practicum Seminar
  • SOCW 5630 Advanced Practice III: Clinical Social Work with Groups
  • SOCW 5720 Advanced Clinical Assessment and Treatment: Mental Health Disorders