Summer Berman

Summer Berman is a seasoned professional in the field of mental health and community organizations, with over 20 years of experience.1 She served as the Executive Director of Fresh Start Clubhouse of Ann Arbor from September 2022 to May 2023, following her role as Director from July 2013 to July 2022.1

Professional Background

Summer holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Michigan School of Social Work, where she specialized in Management of Human Service Agencies and Community Organizing with Communities and Social Systems.1 Her educational background also includes:

• BA in Psychology and Social Science from the University of Michigan Residential College
• Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) certification
• Training in Myomassology and Therapeutic Massage

Expertise and Specialties

Summer's areas of expertise include:

• Clubhouse programs
• Mission-based practice
• Consumer advocacy
• Mental illness recovery
• Person-centered planning
• Stigma reduction
• Community education
• Staff development and training
• Public speaking
• Coalition organizing

She has a strong history of working with mental illness stigma and recovery programs, particularly utilizing the Fountain House/Clubhouse model of psychiatric rehabilitation.1

Fresh Start Clubhouse

At Fresh Start Clubhouse, an accredited program by Clubhouse International, Summer led efforts to serve people with mental illness in Washtenaw County, Michigan. The program focuses on building community to help individuals recover from the social isolation often associated with chronic and severe mental illness.1

Additional Interests

Beyond her primary focus, Summer has expressed interest in various social and community issues, including:

• Environmental concerns
• Workers' unions
• Politics and civic engagement
• Women's health
• Community organizing
• The arts

Summer Berman's career demonstrates a strong commitment to mental health advocacy, community building, and social work practice, with a particular emphasis on using community-based tools and methods to support individuals with mental illness.1