Marlowe McLaughlin-Franklin, LMSW
she/her
Therapy is a partnership.
You bring your experiences, challenges, and hopes for change, and I bring my training, knowledge, and support to help you get there. By combining our strengths, we’ll work as a team toward the goals that matter most to you.
My approach to therapy is grounded in relationships. I want you to feel like this is a space where you can be open, supported, and truly understood. I believe there’s no single “right” way to do therapy, because what matters most is finding the path that feels most useful to you. For some people, that might mean learning practical coping tools, and for others, it might mean slowing down to reflect, process emotions, and explore patterns in a safe space. No matter what, my priority is always to build a strong, trusting connection so that you feel genuinely cared for throughout the process.
My professional journey has given me the opportunity to work in many different areas of the mental health field. I’ve served as a School Social Worker, supported young families and children as an interventionist, and worked in the non-profit sector with families navigating Autism Spectrum Disorder. These experiences allowed me to witness people overcoming complex challenges, and they shaped the way I approach therapy today. What I learned is that resilience can take many forms, and healing looks different for everyone. Now, in my work with people of all ages, I use those lessons to adapt flexibly to the unique needs of each person in therapy with me. My focus is always on tailoring what we do together so that it feels useful and meaningful for you.
I enjoy helping people with a wide range of concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD, Autism, bipolar disorder, OCD, anger, relationship issues, identify development, LGBTQIA+ experiences, chronic illness, self-esteem, and more. I also enjoy supporting people through periods of transition, whether that’s adjusting to a new role, navigating school challenges, or simply wanting to grow in self-understanding.
My goal is to help you leave sessions with a stronger sense of clarity, balance, and confidence in your ability to handle life’s challenges. Above all, I value the courage it takes to reach out for support. Whatever you’re facing, you can move toward a life that feels authentic, manageable, and fulfilling.
Even in the hardest moments, there is hope. I’d be honored to help you find it.
EDUCATION
- BSW, Ferris State University
- MSW, Michigan State University
WORKS WITH
- Kids
- Teens
- Adults
TYPES OF THERAPY
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Person-Centered Therapy
- Solution-Focused Therapy
If you’re feeling nervous about starting therapy, I want you to know that it’s completely okay. Many people feel uncertain in the beginning, wondering what they should share, how much is “too much,” or whether they’ll be truly understood. You don’t have to have the perfect words, or even know exactly why you’re here, because that’s something we can figure out together. Sometimes the first session is simply about getting to know each other, noticing what feels comfortable, and easing into the process. Even saying, “I don’t know where to start,” can be a meaningful beginning. I will never expect you to carry the conversation on your own. Instead, I’ll gently guide us, ask thoughtful questions, and create a space where it’s okay to go at your own pace.
My hope is that therapy feels less like a formal appointment and more like a supportive conversation that belongs entirely to you. We’ll take things step by step, pausing when needed, and adjusting as we go so the process feels manageable and safe. Over time, my goal is for this space to feel like a safe part of your week. Somewhere you can set down what you’re carrying, reflect without judgment, and discover new ways of moving forward.
FAVORITE SELF-CARE
For me, self-care often means surrounding myself with my 5 cats and 3 dogs! They bring me endless joy and comfort. I also love treating myself to ice cream and exploring new places whenever I get the chance to travel.
FUN FACTS
- In my spare time, I volunteer with a cat rescue and help with TNR (trap-neuter-return) efforts to support community cats.
- One of my most memorable experiences was spending a summer in Beijing, China, where I taught English to college students.
LIFE MOTTO
- “Travel more, worry less.”
