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:

Educational Awards

Faculty Member of the Year | University of Phoenix (2026)
Distinguished Graduate Award | American College of Education (2022)
Educational Support Professional of the Year | Governor’s Educator of the Year Program (2021–2022)
NJ State Governor’s Jefferson Award for Public Service (2018)
Educator of the Year | Freemasons (2018)
NJ State Exemplary Educator Award | NJ Department of Education (2017)
Hela Young Memorial Award | NJ DOE Commission on Holocaust Education (2015)
Ocean County School Counselor of the Year | OCPGA (2015)
District Teacher of the Year | Brick Township BOE (2006–2007)

Professional Awards:
Character Education Leader Award | Kids Bridge / ETS (2016)
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Human/Civil Rights Award | NJEA (2016)
Brick Township Hero Award | U.S. Congressional Special Recognition (2015)
Outstanding Community Advocate | Ocean County Board of Human Services (2013)
Community Building Fellowship Award | NJ State Council on Developmental Disabilities (2011)
Human Rights Advocate of the Year | NJSCA (2007–2008)

Writing & Publication Awards
Top Behavioral Solutions Writer Award | Autism Parenting Magazine (2025)
National Book of the Year Award | School Social Worker Association of America (2024)
Top Family Therapist | Exceptional Needs Today Magazine (2021)
Education Writer of the Year | Autism Parenting Magazine (2019)