Ellen Craine

JD. LMSW-Clinical & Macro, ACSW, INHC

I’m Ellen Craine, an Ethics Consultant, Clinical Social Worker, Mediator, and founder of Ellen Craine Consulting. I offer therapy (where licensed), clinical and ethical consulting, mediation, and professional training that blend over three decades of expertise in social work, ethics, family systems, and complex decision-making.

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My work sits at the intersection of ethical clarity, grounded presence, and compassionate care. I support individuals, caregivers, families, and professionals as they navigate grief, life transitions, ethical dilemmas, and challenging interpersonal or organizational situations. My approach is rooted in integrity, deep listening, and respect for each person’s lived experience and professional responsibility.

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With more than 30 years of experience as an LMSW and ACSW, and a background spanning law, mediation, and clinical practice, I bring a uniquely integrative lens. I am the developer of the 5 Pillars Model, a copyrighted framework that helps social workers and interdisciplinary teams make ethical and business decisions with clarity and confidence. I have provided ethics CEU trainings for the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, clinical organizations, nonprofits, and collaborative teams across disciplines.

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My training as a Waldorf teacher (Grades 1–8) and my foundation in anthroposophy inform my presence and way of working: thoughtful, grounded, attentive, and respectful of human development. These sensibilities help me create learning and consulting environments that honor complexity and support meaningful growth.

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Alongside my consulting and teaching, I offer therapy (in states where I am licensed) and mediation through difficult transitions including grief, caregiving, family changes, and moments when clarity is needed. My background includes extensive experience as a divorce and family mediator, helping co-parents strengthen communication and create healthier pathways forward.

I am also a team member with Neilson Consulting, supporting attorneys, families, and organizations with clinical insight and structured recommendations  family law and probate court matters.  https://neilsonconsulting.com/

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As an Associate Member of NAADAC and MAADAC, I am working toward certification as an addictions counselor. With this training, I am able to provide screenings and assessments to assist attorneys and others with recommendations in family law and probate matters.

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Across all roles, my work is guided by compassion, ethics, and a commitment to aligning decisions with values and purpose—whether supporting an individual in transition or helping a professional navigate a complex ethical landscape.