Michael Pettinelli, PsyD, BCD, LCSW

Founder and CEO of The Resilient Force Project

VETERAN, LEADER, & LIFELONG STUDENT OF RESILIENCE

A man in a tan blazer and light blue jeans standing outdoors on brick stairs, holding onto a black metal railing, with a brick building with arched windows and flags in the background.

Meet Dr. Michael Pettinelli

Dr. Michael Pettinelli is a psychologist, Air Force Veteran, speaker, and resilience expert dedicated to helping individuals, teams, and organizations perform at their best. With more than 26 years of experience in mental health, leadership development, and military support services, he combines clinical expertise and coaching with real-world insight to help people uncover hidden patterns, adjust behaviors, and live in alignment with their values.

Helping Individuals, Teams, and Organizations Build Sustainable Resilience

Michael Pettinelli, PsyD, LCSW is the Owner and CEO of The Resilient Force Project, LLC, where he helps individuals and organizations strengthen resilience and perform under pressure.

A veteran of the United States Air Force, Dr. Pettinelli deployed twice in support of Operation Enduring Freedomand Operation Southern Watch — experiences that deeply shaped his commitment to serving military members, veterans, first responders, and their families.

With over 26 years of experience, his work integrates clinical practice, leadership development, resilience training, and organizational consulting. He earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Syracuse University and a Doctorate in Psychology from California Southern University, where his research focused on leadership and its impact on service member well-being.

His professional background includes:

  • Teaching at SUNY Jefferson and Columbia College

  • Leading training and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services for Clear Path for Veterans

  • Serving as Lead Instructor for The Psychology of Remote Combat across multiple Air National Guard installations

Dr. Pettinelli has delivered presentations and resilience training at:

  • Military conferences

  • First Sergeant Symposiums

  • Yellow Ribbon events

  • Leadership and organizational workshops

His areas of expertise include:

  • Emotional Intelligence

  • Stress Management & Burnout Prevention

  • Leadership Development

  • Communication & Team Performance

  • Resilience Under Pressure

He supports professionals, organizations, and leaders navigating high stress, burnout, transition, and emotional overload through an integrated resilience approach that addresses:

  • Physical wellness

  • Emotional resilience

  • Psychological strength

  • Social connection

  • Purpose-driven growth

At the core of his work is a passion for helping people become the best version of themselves through meaningful connection, trust, and authentic resilience.

Dr. Pettinelli lives in Yorktown with his wife and three children and remains dedicated to helping others adapt, grow, and lead with purpose.

PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

PsyD, California Southern University

MSW, Syracuse University

Board-Certified Diplomat (BCD)

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Veteran, United States Air Force w/ two deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom & Opera

26+ years of combined military and professional service

Adjunct Professor, SUNY Jefferson & Columbia College

Lead Instructor, The Psychology of Remote Combat course at multiple Air National Guard installations

Former Lead Training & EAP Professional, Clear Path for Veterans

Founder & CEO, The Resilient Force Project, LLC