Tamara Steckler, MS, LMFT, CBT-C, JD

Tamara Steckler, MS, LMFT, CBT-C, JD, rare combination of extensive legal experience in child welfare and family law, coupled with clinical training and direct therapeutic practice, positions her as an exceptional resource for mental health professionals working at the intersection of clinical practice and legal systems. As a licensed marriage and family therapist and a seasoned attorney with 30 years of experience, she represents a unique intersection of legal knowledge and therapeutic practice that few professionals possess. Holding a Juris Doctor for Hofstra University School of Law (Public Justice Outstanding Alumna Award, 2017) and a Master of Arts in marriage and family therapy from Touro University (Summa Cum Laude), Ms. Steckler is a recognized expert in juvenile justice, family law, domestic violence, child welfare, custody matters, and litigation who has successfully represented thousands of vulnerable youth and adults in court proceedings while developing sophisticated legal strategies for complex cases.

Her deep understanding of both therapeutic relationships and legal proceedings, combined with decades of leadership in complex organizational environments, provides unparalleled insight into the ethical, practical, and clinical challenges facing practitioners in these specialized areas. Her distinguished career includes pioneering domestic violence units at two non-profit law firms, co-founding The Legal Aid Society’s LGBT Law and Policy Initiative, and receiving prestigious honors including the New York State Bar Association’s Howard Levine Award for Excellence in Justice/Child Welfare (2012) and recognition as one of New York Journal’s Top 30 Women in Law (2016). Currently in private practice and serving as board member for Thrive Mental Health Services, she continues to bridge legal and clinical expertise through her work with families navigating complex court proceedings while maintaining therapeutic relationships.

Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Tamara Steckler maintains a private practice and receives compensation as a consultant. She receives a speaking honorarium from PESI, Inc. She has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Tamara Steckler is a board member of Thrive Mental health and Substance Abuse Recovery Support Services.