Meet Brett

The Professional Story

If there is one thing I have learned over the last 28 years, it is that children do not exist in a vacuum. A student acting out in algebra class is often reacting to a dynamic at the dinner table. A child struggling with anxiety at home frequently feels the pressure of the school hallway.

As an Educator, Author, and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have dedicated my career to connecting these dots.

My work sits at the intersection of education and mental health. I don’t just study theories; I stand in the trenches.

As an Educator & Administrator, I understand the unique burnout teachers face and the administrative hurdles of modern schooling.

As a Counselor (LMFT), I understand the delicate architecture of family systems and the trauma that often goes unseen.

As an Author, I strive to translate complex psychological concepts into practical, "use-it-tomorrow" strategies for parents and teachers.

I believe that whether you are running a classroom or raising a family, you don’t need more jargon—you need empowerment. You need to know that while the challenges are real, the solutions are within reach.

The Personal "Why?"

My credentials (EdD, MS, LMFT) hang on the wall, but my true education happened at home.

Beyond my clinical and academic roles, I have navigated the joys and complexities of being a foster and adoptive parent. I know what it feels like to sit on the other side of the IEP table. I know the frustration of trying to decode a behavior that doesn’t make sense, and the profound joy of watching a child finally feel safe enough to thrive.

This personal journey keeps me grounded. When I offer advice in a book or a training session, it isn't coming from an ivory tower. It’s coming from someone who has successfully navigated the same chaos, wiped the same tears, and celebrated the same victories.

My Mission:

To give educators the tools to teach, parents the confidence to lead, and children the safety to soar.

At a Glance: Dr. Brett J. Novick

The Educator: 25+ years in public education as a teacher, counselor, and mental health supervisor.

The Therapist: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma, SEL, and behavioral challenges.

The Author: Author of multiple best-selling books on restorative practices, challenging behaviors, and social-emotional learning.

The Speaker: National presenter helping districts and organizations build trauma-informed, resilient cultures.

Awards:

University of Phoenix-Faculty Member of the Year (2026)
American College of Education - Distinguished Graduate Award (2022)
Governor’s Educator of the Year - Educational Support Professional of the Year (2021-2022)
NJ State Governor’s Jefferson Award for Public Service (2018)
Freemasons - Educator of the Year (2018)
NJ DOE—NJ State Exemplary Educator Award (2017)
Kids Bridge/ETS—Character Education Leader Award (2016)
NJEA Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Human/Civil Rights Award (2016)
U.S Congressional Special Recognition—Brick Township Hero Award (2015)
NJ DOE Commission on Holocaust Education—Hela Young Memorial Award (2015)
OCPGA—Ocean County School Counselor of the Year (2015)
Ocean County Board of Human Services “Outstanding Community Advocate” (2013)
NJ State Council on Developmental Disabilities -Community Building Fellowship Award (2011)
NJSCA -Human Rights Advocate of the Year (2007–08)
Brick Township BOE - District Teacher of the Year (2006–07)

AWARDS FOR WRITING

Autism Parenting Magazine- Top Behavioral Solutions Writer Award (2025)
School Social Worker Assoc. of America - National Book of the Year Award (2024)
Exceptional Needs Today Magazine - Top Family Therapist (2021)
Autism Parenting Magazine-Education Writer of the Year (2019)

-Brett