Hi, I’m Stephen Marley, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 34 years of experience walking alongside individuals, couples, and families through life’s hardest—and most hopeful—moments. I provide therapy that’s practical, compassionate, and grounded in both clinical expertise and real-life understanding. Clients often tell me they feel safe, seen, and truly heard in our work together. I believe in creating a space where you don’t have to pretend or carry everything alone. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, relationship stress, life transitions, or just feeling overwhelmed, I’ll meet you where you are—with respect, curiosity, and a genuine desire to help. Therapy with me isn’t about overanalyzing or staying stuck in the past—it’s about finding real, sustainable ways to move forward. Together, we’ll clarify what matters most to you and build the tools to live with more peace, purpose, and connection.
Your first session is all about getting to know you—who you are, what’s bringing you in, and what you hope to get out of therapy. We’ll talk through your concerns at your pace, with no pressure to have it all figured out. I’ll ask some questions to better understand your background, current challenges, and goals, and you’re welcome to ask me questions too. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and understood. You don’t need to prepare anything or say things perfectly—just come as you are. By the end of the session, we’ll start to clarify your goals and explore how we can work together to help you move forward.
Clients often tell me they feel safe, seen, and genuinely understood in our work together—and that’s something I take to heart. One of my greatest strengths is creating a calm, grounded space where people can be real without fear of judgment. I bring over 30 years of experience, but I also bring humility, humor, and deep respect for each person’s journey. I’m skilled at quickly identifying patterns—especially those keeping someone stuck—and helping them find practical, solution-focused ways to shift. I integrate evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, and solution-focused therapy, but always tailor my work to the individual or couple in front of me. What really sets my approach apart is my balance of insight and action: I help clients understand why things are happening, but also how to move forward. My goal is always lasting change, not just short-term relief.
You’re exhausted, overwhelmed, and tired of pretending everything’s fine. If you lie awake at night replaying conversations, worrying about your relationships, or questioning your worth—you’re not alone. Many of the individuals and couples I work with are silently struggling beneath the surface. On the outside, they appear to be holding it together. But inside, they feel anxious, emotionally drained, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. Here’s the truth: You’re not broken—you’re carrying too much without enough support. You’ve been taught to push through instead of process. And deep down, you’re craving something more real: peace, authenticity, and connection. I help adults and couples find that peace. Whether you’re working through anxiety, unresolved trauma, or chronic relationship conflict, I offer a practical, no-nonsense path forward. Together, we’ll uncover what’s keeping you stuck, develop tools to manage your emotions, and build the confidence to show up fully—without having to hide who you are.
I’ve found CBT to be a practical and effective approach in helping clients understand and change unhelpful thought patterns. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to identify negative thinking and develop healthier perspectives and coping skills. I focus on teaching tools that promote lasting change and greater emotional control, tailoring the approach to each person’s unique needs and goals.
I use ACT to help clients build psychological flexibility by accepting difficult emotions rather than fighting them. In sessions, I guide clients to clarify their values and take committed action toward what matters most to them, even in the presence of pain or discomfort. This approach encourages mindfulness and self-compassion, helping clients live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. I tailor ACT techniques to fit each client’s unique challenges and goals.
In couples counseling, I work with partners to improve communication, deepen understanding, and resolve conflicts in a safe and supportive space. I help couples identify patterns that create distance or tension and guide them toward healthier ways of relating. My goal is to strengthen the connection by fostering empathy, trust, and shared goals tailored to each couple’s unique relationship.
I use solution-focused therapy to help clients quickly identify their strengths and resources to create practical solutions. Rather than dwelling on problems, we focus on what’s working and build on those successes. This approach is collaborative and goal-oriented, empowering clients to make positive changes that fit their unique lives.