Marla Ker

I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can bring questions, struggles, and hopes. Many of my clients want to better understand themselves, explore patterns in relationships, or find healthier boundaries. I learn from you.

I am a licensed social worker in Massachusetts and Maryland with a Master of Social Work from Simmons College of Social Work and over 30 years of experience serving diverse communities. My work has included, but is not limited to, Early Head Start, therapeutic schools, supporting elders at risk, and 16 years helping clients in the community manage and understand how to navigate community living and family systems dynamics while experiencing chronic mental health challenges.

I believe a person is not a diagnosis, and a diagnosis is not a person. My approach draws on the biopsychosocial model and developmental frameworks from Erickson and Piaget, alongside evidence-based methods like but not limited to DBT, CBT, and CET. I work with you to discover which approaches feel most helpful, focusing on building a client-centered, trusting relationship where challenges can be explored and skills practiced as our therapeutic work grows and strengthens.

Starting therapy can feel like a big step whether for the first time or just trying a new path. I want the process to feel welcoming, collaborative, and supportive. My approach considers the whole person- your mind, body, relationships, and life experiences- because each shapes how you understand yourself and connect with others.

My work has evolved from community based settings to telehealth, reinforcing what matters most to me: supporting client autonomy and helping people create a sense of balance that feels authentic to them. Rather than focus solely on diagnosis or symptoms, I strive to understand your unique experiences, strengths, values, and goals. While diagnosis can be a useful clinical tool, I don't believe it defines who you are.

Therapy is an opportunity to deepen self-understanding, strengthen relationships, and develop practical ways to navigate life's challenges. My goal is for for you to leave sessions feeling more grounded, more empowered, and connected to your values.

If you are taking medication or considering it, I support you in understanding your experiences and communicating your questions, preferences, and concerns with your prescribing provider (or help you find one).Medication decisions are made between you and your provider; our work focuses on building self-awareness, confidence, and the skills to advocate for your needs and make informed choices aligned with your goals.

I believe therapy is a collaborative process built on trust, curiosity, and mutual respect. Together we'll identify patterns, build skills, deepen self-understanding and support meaningful change. I welcome all parts of you-please share your culture, spirituality, creativity, humor, art, and music to create an affirming space where you are able to grow at your own pace.

I also recommend a consistent meeting schedule, especially at the beginning of our therapy. Regular sessions help us understand the story behind "why therapy today?",

In our first session, we’ll talk about your goals, strengths, and challenges, and begin to explore the patterns shaping your experience. Most importantly, we’ll see whether this feels like the right therapeutic fit for you.