Community Gathers to Honor Late Dr. Don Spivak

SOUTHFIELD, MI – The community is preparing to come together on Sunday, November 10, to honor the legacy of the late Dr. Don Spivak, a highly regarded child, adolescent, and adult psychoanalyst and psychiatrist who dedicated over 40 years to improving the lives of individuals facing emotional challenges. The event, a benefit for the Michigan Psychoanalytic Foundation, will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at the Great Lakes Culinary Institute, located at 24101 W. Nine Mile Road in Southfield.

Dr. Spivak was a cherished member of the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute’s faculty in Farmington Hills and played a pivotal role as a founding co-director of the Walnut Lake Preschool, which caters specifically to children with emotional issues. His expertise and compassion also led him to serve as the director of the Detroit Psychiatric Institute’s Child and Adolescent Program.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Spivak was dedicated to helping children navigate their emotional difficulties while empowering future mental health professionals. Colleagues often recount how he profoundly touched the lives of countless individuals and families through his work as both a teacher and therapist.

The Michigan Psychoanalytic Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting educational and community outreach efforts. The foundation plays a significant role in training psychiatric residents in Southeast Michigan, as well as providing post-graduate education in psychotherapy for various mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers. Essential teaching and administrative roles at the Institute are filled by dedicated faculty members who volunteer their time.

The Foundation has also made significant strides in community support, evident through initiatives such as the development of the Walnut Lake Preschool and Developmental Kindergarten for children with special needs. Additionally, the establishment of the Mel Bornstein Clinic has allowed for the delivery of vital mental health services in areas including Ann Arbor, Oakland County, and Detroit, independent of patient resources.

Tickets for the benefit can be purchased by visiting the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute website at mpi-mps.org. Attendees will not only honor Dr. Spivak’s incredible contributions but also support ongoing mental health outreach and education in the community.

This event promises to be a celebration of Dr. Spivak’s legacy, reflecting the impact he had on those around him and emphasizing the importance of mental health support for children and families.