Our Team
Meet Our Team
Neilson Consulting is a multidisciplinary firm led by a retired family law judge and supported by experienced attorneys and mental health professionals. Our team is committed to addressing the complex legal and social challenges faced by court-involved individuals and families through collaborative, evidence-informed strategies.
Hon. Lisa M. Neilson (ret.), LLMSW
Retired Family Court Judge | Limited Licensed Master Social Worker
Judge Neilson brings over two decades of legal and judicial experience and a clinical social work lens to her work. Judge Neilson’s dual training allows her to identify and address the human dynamics that influence legal outcomes ensuring a more compassionate, evidence-informed approach to family, probate and criminal matters.
Ellen Craine, JD, LMSW, ACSW, INHC
Clinical, Micro & Macro Social Worker
Ellen blends legal knowledge with clinical and systems-level insight. Her interdisciplinary approach enhances advocacy, assessment, and strategy for individuals and families navigating legal systems. A nationally recognized expert in social work ethics and standards, Ellen is also a counselor, therapist, coach, author, evaluator, parenting coordinator, educator, and an approved supervisor through the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). She is an adjunct professor, develops continuing education programs, and designs trainings and workshops for legal, mental health and interdisciplinary professionals. While Ellen no longer practices law, her practice blends legal knowledge with clinical insight to improve outcomes across systems.
Partnerships / Affiliates
Neilson Consulting uses a collaborative model that allows us to offer fully informed, evidence-based guidance tailored to each client and case by partnering with:
- Legal Professionals and neutrals
- Mental Health providers and therapists
- Court systems
- Court-appointed evaluators and experts
Academic Partnerships
We proudly maintain an affiliation agreement with the University of Michigan School of Social Work, offering field placements and integrating the latest research and training into our practice.
Partnership with Neilson Law Group
While alternative dispute resolution methods often serve as effective tools for resolving conflict, there are times when litigation is the most appropriate and necessary path to achieve a fair and equitable outcome. In such cases, Neilson Consulting collaborates closely with Neilson Law Group, forming a dynamic interdisciplinary team that combines legal expertise with social science insights. This partnership ensures clients receive comprehensive advocacy and strategic litigation support tailored to their unique circumstances. By integrating evidence-based consulting services with the skilled legal representation of Neilson Law Group, we empower clients to navigate the complexities of litigation, including appeals, with confidence, precision, and a focus on achieving the best possible resolution.
