about us
Lamar Hill
MSW, LICSW (MN), LCSW (ND)
I have always envisioned myself helping others and found that as much as he valued other’s visions, it was never fully satisfying for me. I have a perspective of both macro and microsystems theory, which drives me to make both system and policy changes as well as empowering others to picture their own possibilities and pursue positive change for themselves. I believe my skillset and passion allows me to create a refreshed sense of responsibility to the communities I serve, while also developing more effective and healthy partnerships with entities within our communities. Ultimately, we as providers need to continually be better in meeting the increasing demands on us all!
I am a biracial Native American (Arikara) and African American, proud father, son, brother, uncle, friend and therapist. I grew up in rural north central ND and was born into an environment of generational trauma of mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence, split household and suicide. This journey led me to be raised in foster care since age three. However, I was fortunate to remain with same family and happily call them my family today.
I played a variety of sports growing up and enjoyed the liberal arts including choir and band. I went on to play collegiate football and basketball, and graduated with a Social Work degree from the University of Mary, in Bismarck, ND. After that I spent some time working on the railroad. It was that experience that directed me towards systems theory and its application and relations in all systems from the individual to micro-, meso-, exo- to macrosystems.
So, I attended graduate school at the University of Minnesota School of Social Work in St. Paul, MN, and earned a Master’s Degree. My graduate placement was at the White Earth American Indian Reservation. There, I provided community, school and residential-based therapy (i.e. family, individual and group therapy), diagnostic assessments and clinical consultation. I also served on the Minnesota American Indian Mental Health Advisory Board as the Mental Manager for the White Earth Mental Health Program.
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I earned my LICSW (MN) and LCSW (ND) while employed with Solutions Behavioral Healthcare Professionals in Moorhead, MN. There, I provided Early Childhood Mental Health Services with Head Start. I have training in:
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Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Incredible Years, Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
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Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
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Trauma Informed Child Parent Psychotherapy (TI-CPP)
I also use motivational interviewing, the medicine wheel in therapy when appropriate and other cultural practices such as prayer, smudging incorporating of medicine men and women.
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My children are my lifeline! I love to listen to music, cook, attend children’s functions, travel, attend sporting events (GO BISON!), spend time at home and enjoy thought-provoking conversation.
Naomi Michel
MSW, LMSW (ND), LGSW (MN)
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I am passionate about supporting individuals through life’s challenges and providing encouragement toward healing and resilience. My journey into social work began at a previous employment, where I witnessed a social worker’s compassion bring hope to a family in crisis. This along with the experience of seeing a loved one overcome trauma, inspired me to pursue a career in Clinical Social Work. I earned dual degrees of Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences (NDSU) and of Bachelor of Social Work (MSU), followed by a degree of Master of Social Work (WSU).
I hold an LMSW (ND) and an LGSW (MN) and am in the process of obtaining my LCSW (ND) and LICSW (MN). I have experience as a Mental Health Clinician at the Red River Children’s Advocacy Center, where I gained fundamental training in abuse, neglect, exploitation, and trauma therapy. At Four Elements Therapy, I will continue providing trauma-therapy for children and their families, while fostering healing through supportive relationships and authentic connections.
My experience includes extensive training in the following modalities:
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
• Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI)
• Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress (SPARCS)
• Advanced TF-CBT for Children Commercially Sexually Exploited and Trafficked (CSET)
• Advanced TF-CBT for Preschool and School-Age Children with Problematic Sexual Behavior (PSB) Related to Trauma
• Advanced TF-CBT for Application, Engagement, and Strategies for Telehealth
• Healing Interpersonal and Racial Trauma: Integrating Racial Socialization into TF-CBT for Black Youth
• TF-CBT Application for Parental Substance Misuse
• TF-CBT Application for Youth with Complex Trauma
• TF-CBT Application for Young Children
• TF-CBT in Groups
• Parental Clarification
When I’m not practicing therapy, I cherish time with my husband, our children, and our two dogs. I also enjoy traveling, exploring different cultures, baking, watching documentaries, and connecting with friends. Music is foundational for me, whether through attending concerts or simply listening. These experiences bring balance and fulfillment to my life.
I believe in creating a genuine, safe, and compassionate space where children and families can grow together. I aim to provide compassion, guidance, and support as individuals navigate their own journeys.
Now, Let’s work together toward your healing and growth!
Kirsten Ulmer
My official title is Executive Assistant, but I hold many roles at Four Elements Therapy. I am the receptionist, scheduler, office manager, accountant, and organizer of all things. You may not see me regularly (or at all) in the office depending on when your appointment is, but I am your best point of contact to get things done.
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Lamar has been a longtime friend and fortunately for both of us, he asked, and I was available, to start this journey with him into private practice. We have a lot of fun in and out of the office. I look forward to meeting all those who let us be a part of their mental health journey.
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I was born and raised in California but have been in North Dakota for about 15 years. I graduated from Long Beach State University with a degree in Child Development and Family Studies. I have worked with children all my life in many different settings.
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I am a wife and mother of 3 and spend most of my free time running them around to all their activities. I enjoy traveling, music, cheering on the Bison, crafting, playing games and watching movies with family and friends.