Casandra (Cassie) Starback, LMSW

Casandra (Cassie) Starback is an LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) based in Michigan with 22 years of experience concentrating on gerontology and support for people affected by dementia. She has worked across clinics, residential care communities, and community organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association, building practical skills in both direct care and family support.

Her work centers on helping older adults and caregivers navigate the emotional challenges that often accompany aging - including stress, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. She emphasizes compassionate, values-oriented care and draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) alongside self-compassion practices to help people accept difficult feelings and take meaningful steps forward.

Cassie focuses on strengthening personal resources and connecting clients with supportive networks so they can manage transitions like caregiving, end-of-life planning, and changing life roles. She sees clients as experts in their own experience and collaborates with them to develop coping strategies tailored to their goals. Her approach combines clinical knowledge of aging with practical, person-centered techniques aimed at improving day-to-day functioning and emotional well-being.

Cassie brings a calm, respectful presence to her work and remains committed to helping clients find more grounded, values-based ways of living through change and loss.