Marissa Franklin, LMSW

My Approach

I have been working in the mental health field since 2019 as a community based worker and I have been a Licensed Master of Social Work since February 2024. I received my graduate degree at the University of Northern Iowa for Social Work in December 2023. The program I participated in was a trauma informed care program prompting my passion for trauma work. I am currently working to be certified in Child-Parent Psychotherapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and strengths-based. I strive to create a place that feels safe and welcoming for you to explore, reflect, and initiate meaningful personal growth.

The purpose of my work is to invoke healing, empowerment, and resilience, while helping you build practical tools to navigate life’s challenges. I integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and trauma informed care while tailoring each session to meet your unique needs and goals. No matter what your background, experiences, or life stressors may be, I will provide a judgment-free and open space for us to do the work we need to do together while providing you with support, empathy, authenticity, and gentle encouragement along the way.

Who I work with 

I really enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, life transitions, or the impact of stressful and traumatic experiences. Many of my clients are sensitive, insightful, and deeply caring, yet may struggle with self-doubt, perfectionism, executive functioning challenges, or feeling overwhelmed by big emotions.

Some areas I share a special interest in include mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attachment and behavioral disorders. I also work well with parents and caregivers who are motivated to better understand their child’s needs and strengthen connection within the family. Clients who are open to learning new coping skills, willing to reflect, and ready to grow, even if they feel nervous about the process often find our work together to be a supportive and empowering fit.

How I work

My therapeutic style is relational and collaborative with a balance of compassion and accountability while still being warm and approachable. I believe in meeting clients where they are while helping them build the insight and skills needed to create meaningful change and healing. I commonly integrate evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, and Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), along with strengths-based and mindfulness-based approaches. I tailor interventions to each client’s developmental level, personal goals, and lived experiences, ensuring our work together feels practical, empowering, and aligned with what matters most to them. 

Getting Started

I currently accept a variety of major insurance plans such as but limited to Blue Cross Blue Shield, state Medicaid and Medicaid MCO’s, Aetna and United health Care. I also offer private pay options on a sliding scale fee to ensure affordability. Sliding scale fees start at $70.00/  53 minute session. I provide both in-person and virtual therapy sessions to accommodate different preferences and schedules. My typical office hours are 9:00 am- 5:00 pm with some flexibility for evening appointments.  I offer a free 15-minute consultation call prior to setting up services to review services, goals, and needs. Reach out today to schedule a time to discuss setting up services!