Secular and Non-Religious Therapists in Boston, MA
Are you struggling with your mental health? I have extensive experience helping clients work WITH their brain, rather than against it. During our treatment, you can expect looking beyond your diagnosis. Instead we will focus on helping you feel at home in your body and mind.
Are you struggling with your mental health? I have extensive experience helping clients work WITH their brain, rather than against it. During our treatment, you can expect looking beyond your diagnosis. Instead we will focus on helping you feel at home in your body and mind.
I have been in clinical practice for almost 15 years. In therapy, you should experience a balance of feeling challenged, actively engaged, and also fully accepted and safe. I believe that at the heart of healing is compassionate curiosity, and I bring this approach to my practice. I can also offer something deeper than traditional talk therapy. IFS develops self-compassion and guides you to heal the core wounds that drive the challenging symptoms.
I am experienced with supporting clients through recovering from trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, life transitions, relational challenges, attachment wounds, and more.
I have been in clinical practice for almost 15 years. In therapy, you should experience a balance of feeling challenged, actively engaged, and also fully accepted and safe. I believe that at the heart of healing is compassionate curiosity, and I bring this approach to my practice. I can also offer something deeper than traditional talk therapy. IFS develops self-compassion and guides you to heal the core wounds that drive the challenging symptoms.
I am experienced with supporting clients through recovering from trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, life transitions, relational challenges, attachment wounds, and more.
My areas of experience are LGBTQ+ ,trauma and addiction, and I have a deep passion for helping people heal from experiences that have impacted the way they see themselves, their relationships, and their lives. I understand that coping strategies often develop for a reason. Rather than judging those behaviors, I want to help you understand why they came to be
My areas of experience are LGBTQ+ ,trauma and addiction, and I have a deep passion for helping people heal from experiences that have impacted the way they see themselves, their relationships, and their lives. I understand that coping strategies often develop for a reason. Rather than judging those behaviors, I want to help you understand why they came to be
If you are overwhelmed by anxiety, overthinking, and the pressure to meet every expectation, you are not alone. Constant self-judgment can easily pull you into exhausting patterns with food, perfectionism, or substance use just to get through the day. Some days you try to manage it with rigid structure or control; other days you turn to those familiar coping habits just to quiet your mind for a moment. You wake up determined to do better, yet by evening the guilt, frustration, or heaviness returns. You’re tired of feeling like you “should” be able to handle this on your own, and you’re ready for a shift.
If you are overwhelmed by anxiety, overthinking, and the pressure to meet every expectation, you are not alone. Constant self-judgment can easily pull you into exhausting patterns with food, perfectionism, or substance use just to get through the day. Some days you try to manage it with rigid structure or control; other days you turn to those familiar coping habits just to quiet your mind for a moment. You wake up determined to do better, yet by evening the guilt, frustration, or heaviness returns. You’re tired of feeling like you “should” be able to handle this on your own, and you’re ready for a shift.
Are you Feeling Anxious; Depressed; Lonely, lacking Self-confidence?
Stressed-out by Life?
Feeling Helpless & Hopeless?
Questioning your Life Direction, Potential Changes, Or Core Beliefs?
Are you struggling to be Assertive, to be Heard and Understood by your Others?
Are you struggling to Emotionally Connect and Be Emotionally Vulnerable with your Significant Partner? To ask your your Partner for what you really want and need?
Are you Feeling Anxious; Depressed; Lonely, lacking Self-confidence?
Stressed-out by Life?
Feeling Helpless & Hopeless?
Questioning your Life Direction, Potential Changes, Or Core Beliefs?
Are you struggling to be Assertive, to be Heard and Understood by your Others?
Are you struggling to Emotionally Connect and Be Emotionally Vulnerable with your Significant Partner? To ask your your Partner for what you really want and need?
I believe that every individual possesses inherent strengths and resources that can be harnessed to overcome challenges. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a strengths-based perspective, where we focus on what you do well and how we can build on those abilities to foster growth and resilience. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing life stressors including relationship stress, grief/loss, and stage of life changes. I can also be helpful in supporting those who experience symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar and OCD.
I believe that every individual possesses inherent strengths and resources that can be harnessed to overcome challenges. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a strengths-based perspective, where we focus on what you do well and how we can build on those abilities to foster growth and resilience. I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing life stressors including relationship stress, grief/loss, and stage of life changes. I can also be helpful in supporting those who experience symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar and OCD.
Are you having difficulty adjusting to a new environment, relationship, identity, or phase of life? Do you overanalyze social interactions or struggle to connect with others? Are you navigating your sexual orientation/gender identity? I have been a practicing Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 6 years and have experience working with adults in multiple settings including college counseling, community mental health, private practice, and case management. As a queer-identified therapist, I am fiercely dedicated to working with clients in the LGBTQIA+ community, and affirming of kink and ENM/polyamory as well.
Are you having difficulty adjusting to a new environment, relationship, identity, or phase of life? Do you overanalyze social interactions or struggle to connect with others? Are you navigating your sexual orientation/gender identity? I have been a practicing Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 6 years and have experience working with adults in multiple settings including college counseling, community mental health, private practice, and case management. As a queer-identified therapist, I am fiercely dedicated to working with clients in the LGBTQIA+ community, and affirming of kink and ENM/polyamory as well.
Hello and welcome!
I provide remote therapy in Florida and Massachusetts for adults who grew up in emotionally unhealthy or toxic family systems and are still feeling the effects today.
Many of my clients feel anxious, guilty, burned out, or stuck in painful relationship patterns. You may have grown up walking on eggshells, being the “responsible one,” being scapegoated, or learning to ignore your own needs to keep the peace. As an adult, this can show up as people-pleasing, low self-esteem, difficulty setting boundaries, or repeatedly getting pulled into emotionally unsafe relationships.
Hello and welcome!
I provide remote therapy in Florida and Massachusetts for adults who grew up in emotionally unhealthy or toxic family systems and are still feeling the effects today.
Many of my clients feel anxious, guilty, burned out, or stuck in painful relationship patterns. You may have grown up walking on eggshells, being the “responsible one,” being scapegoated, or learning to ignore your own needs to keep the peace. As an adult, this can show up as people-pleasing, low self-esteem, difficulty setting boundaries, or repeatedly getting pulled into emotionally unsafe relationships.
Rachel is a clinical social worker with experience working with children and college students. She has particular clinical interest in working with LGBTQIA+ identified folks, adolescents and emerging adults, and clients seeking support related to sex and sexuality, reproductive health, and relationship dynamics. Rachel incorporates a blended variety of psychodynamic and behavioral therapeutic techniques into her work, including attachment theory, Rogerian therapy, relational therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Rachel is a clinical social worker with experience working with children and college students. She has particular clinical interest in working with LGBTQIA+ identified folks, adolescents and emerging adults, and clients seeking support related to sex and sexuality, reproductive health, and relationship dynamics. Rachel incorporates a blended variety of psychodynamic and behavioral therapeutic techniques into her work, including attachment theory, Rogerian therapy, relational therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
My ideal clients are those who are ready and motivated to make meaningful changes in their lives. They may seek therapy to heal from past trauma, improve communication, navigate workplace challenges and microaggressions, or strengthen emotional regulation. They approach therapy with a willingness to explore, grow, and actively engage in the process; understanding that becoming their best selves requires effort, openness, and personal accountability. Together we will uncover strengths, address challenges, and create a clear path toward lasting growth and fulfillment.
My ideal clients are those who are ready and motivated to make meaningful changes in their lives. They may seek therapy to heal from past trauma, improve communication, navigate workplace challenges and microaggressions, or strengthen emotional regulation. They approach therapy with a willingness to explore, grow, and actively engage in the process; understanding that becoming their best selves requires effort, openness, and personal accountability. Together we will uncover strengths, address challenges, and create a clear path toward lasting growth and fulfillment.
Kasey Benthin-Staley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LICSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
People seeking improvement or understanding in their lives can almost always benefit from talking things through. Whether you want to explore childhood issues, heal from trauma, deal with work stress, address anxiety and depression symptoms, or something else, I can help you accomplish your goals. Do you feel un-help-able? Having spent ten years in community mental health, I have worked with people from all walks of life, with all different needs, and feel comfortable talking with most people about most things.
People seeking improvement or understanding in their lives can almost always benefit from talking things through. Whether you want to explore childhood issues, heal from trauma, deal with work stress, address anxiety and depression symptoms, or something else, I can help you accomplish your goals. Do you feel un-help-able? Having spent ten years in community mental health, I have worked with people from all walks of life, with all different needs, and feel comfortable talking with most people about most things.
Hi, my name is Matthew McKie. I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I have over 8 years of clinical experience working with a diverse range of clients. I believe change comes from within and I work with clients to help identify these motivations and potential methods of change.
Hi, my name is Matthew McKie. I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I have over 8 years of clinical experience working with a diverse range of clients. I believe change comes from within and I work with clients to help identify these motivations and potential methods of change.
I primarily use Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and EMDR to help clients identify patterns that are holding them back and trace these to deeper wounds and social survival tactics. (Note: IFS is not family therapy, despite the name). By approaching these parts of yourself with empathy, you can begin to reimagine your relationships to your self and to others. I offer an empathetic perspective and over 10 years of experience in the field to guide you through what can be challenging work. Sometimes it's hard, sometimes it's fun, and I'm here for all of it. Also, I will never use AI to transcribe session content.
I primarily use Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and EMDR to help clients identify patterns that are holding them back and trace these to deeper wounds and social survival tactics. (Note: IFS is not family therapy, despite the name). By approaching these parts of yourself with empathy, you can begin to reimagine your relationships to your self and to others. I offer an empathetic perspective and over 10 years of experience in the field to guide you through what can be challenging work. Sometimes it's hard, sometimes it's fun, and I'm here for all of it. Also, I will never use AI to transcribe session content.
Barbara H Bradford
Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner, LICSW, LIMHP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you tired of listening to that committee in your head - you know, the one that says you are stupid or wrong and you don't fit in?
At Cerebral Landscaping we are all about embracing our quirks, whether it's being as neurodiverse as possible, having more issues than People Magazine, or needing a self-esteem boost.
Sometimes, if we hear something enough, we will think it's true; especially the negative messages we hear or tell ourselves.
We are not here to just endure or cause suffering. Together we can find a better way.
Let's get started.
Are you tired of listening to that committee in your head - you know, the one that says you are stupid or wrong and you don't fit in?
At Cerebral Landscaping we are all about embracing our quirks, whether it's being as neurodiverse as possible, having more issues than People Magazine, or needing a self-esteem boost.
Sometimes, if we hear something enough, we will think it's true; especially the negative messages we hear or tell ourselves.
We are not here to just endure or cause suffering. Together we can find a better way.
Let's get started.
You’re navigating overwhelming and deep challenges, whether it's fertility struggles, the transition to motherhood, anxiety, trauma, or grief. You crave healing beyond traditional talk therapy, which honors all parts of you, mind, body, and soul. You’re seeking a safe, supportive space to explore your emotions, release stored pain, and reconnect with yourself. Through the use of somatic therapy, transpersonal approaches, mindfulness, and, for those interested and eligible, psychedelic-assisted therapy, I help you discover more clarity, expanded resilience, and deeper inner peace.
You’re navigating overwhelming and deep challenges, whether it's fertility struggles, the transition to motherhood, anxiety, trauma, or grief. You crave healing beyond traditional talk therapy, which honors all parts of you, mind, body, and soul. You’re seeking a safe, supportive space to explore your emotions, release stored pain, and reconnect with yourself. Through the use of somatic therapy, transpersonal approaches, mindfulness, and, for those interested and eligible, psychedelic-assisted therapy, I help you discover more clarity, expanded resilience, and deeper inner peace.
From the outside, you may look like you're holding everything together. Inside, you're overwhelmed, exhausted, and wondering why everyday life feels so much harder than it seems to for everyone else. I work with neurodivergent adults and busy professionals navigating ADHD, anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, and life transitions. Together we'll move beyond simply coping to better understand how your brain works, reduce shame, and build skills so you can feel more confident navigating everyday life in a way that fits who you are.
From the outside, you may look like you're holding everything together. Inside, you're overwhelmed, exhausted, and wondering why everyday life feels so much harder than it seems to for everyone else. I work with neurodivergent adults and busy professionals navigating ADHD, anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, and life transitions. Together we'll move beyond simply coping to better understand how your brain works, reduce shame, and build skills so you can feel more confident navigating everyday life in a way that fits who you are.
As a Harvard-trained clinical psychologist, I specialize in working with high-achieving Black gay and bisexual men — executives, founders, artists, creators, entertainers, and public-facing professionals. What brings them to this practice is rarely one thing: it is the accumulation of stressors like being "the Black one" in C-suites and elite institutions. Sometimes it's the stress of carrying both who they are and who the room expects. They need a space that is both clinically excellent, but also culturally responsive. As someone who has navigated spaces like these, I provide a therapeutic space to hold what society cannot.
As a Harvard-trained clinical psychologist, I specialize in working with high-achieving Black gay and bisexual men — executives, founders, artists, creators, entertainers, and public-facing professionals. What brings them to this practice is rarely one thing: it is the accumulation of stressors like being "the Black one" in C-suites and elite institutions. Sometimes it's the stress of carrying both who they are and who the room expects. They need a space that is both clinically excellent, but also culturally responsive. As someone who has navigated spaces like these, I provide a therapeutic space to hold what society cannot.
I am a queer, trans, neurodivergent, sex and kink positive therapist who believes all bodies are good bodies and all brains are good brains. I am passionate about working with neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ older teens and adults.
We might work well together if you’re struggling with depression or anxiety and in need of a reminder of the amazing skills you have for caring for yourself, are interested in learning more about how to celebrate your neurodivergent brain, wish to process trauma creatively/narratively/somatically, or are hoping to receive compassionate support around an addiction(s).
I am a queer, trans, neurodivergent, sex and kink positive therapist who believes all bodies are good bodies and all brains are good brains. I am passionate about working with neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ older teens and adults.
We might work well together if you’re struggling with depression or anxiety and in need of a reminder of the amazing skills you have for caring for yourself, are interested in learning more about how to celebrate your neurodivergent brain, wish to process trauma creatively/narratively/somatically, or are hoping to receive compassionate support around an addiction(s).
Now offering therapy intensives! What does it mean to be human? Often it means feeling lost, confused, and not good enough. It can mean feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, and that you’re expected to have everything figured out. But being human is all these painful things, and so much more. It’s feeling the sun shining on your face, laughing with people you love, being truly seen and understood. Feeling safe and calm in your body. Riding the waves of life with an inner trust that you can handle whatever comes. Therapy is a place to practice being human, to feel your messy emotions as you heal all parts of you.
Now offering therapy intensives! What does it mean to be human? Often it means feeling lost, confused, and not good enough. It can mean feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, and that you’re expected to have everything figured out. But being human is all these painful things, and so much more. It’s feeling the sun shining on your face, laughing with people you love, being truly seen and understood. Feeling safe and calm in your body. Riding the waves of life with an inner trust that you can handle whatever comes. Therapy is a place to practice being human, to feel your messy emotions as you heal all parts of you.
Throughout my professional life, I have worked with individuals from many walks of life, developing an open-minded and compassionate approach to care. My clinical experience is grounded in a collaborative, “biopsychosocial” perspective that considers the person as a whole, rather than a single diagnosis or symptom. I am especially attentive to how emotional, relational, physical, and environmental factors intersect during times of stress, life changes, or transitions.
Throughout my professional life, I have worked with individuals from many walks of life, developing an open-minded and compassionate approach to care. My clinical experience is grounded in a collaborative, “biopsychosocial” perspective that considers the person as a whole, rather than a single diagnosis or symptom. I am especially attentive to how emotional, relational, physical, and environmental factors intersect during times of stress, life changes, or transitions.
See more therapy options for Boston
Nearby Secular and Non-Religious Therapists Searches for Boston
- Allston
- Belmont
- Brighton
- Brookline
- Cambridge
- Dorchester
- Jamaica Plain
- Malden
- Medford
- Roslindale
- Somerville
- Watertown
Secular and Non-Religious Therapists
What is a secular and non religious approach in therapy?
Secular or non-religious therapy is a theoretical orientation used by many therapists and describes a therapeutic approach that does not rely on any specific religious or faith-based beliefs in the therapeutic process. Secular counselors will often approach therapy with an emphasis on evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients, instead of relying on religious practices, such as prayer or belief in God.
Is secular therapy primarily for non-religious people?
Both religious and non-religious individuals can benefit from secular therapy. People exploring their religious or spiritual beliefs may find it especially useful to work with a secular therapist who is unbiased toward any specific religion. While religious individuals might value the connection and familiarity of seeing a counselor who shares their beliefs, secular counseling can offer them the chance to develop coping skills independent of their religious practice, which can be beneficial in various aspects of their lives.
Can a secular approach to therapy help with religious trauma?
One major reason clients may seek a secular therapist is to process previous religious experiences, including religious trauma. Secular therapists can help clients manage symptoms of the trauma through practices such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). They can also encourage clients through talk therapy or psychodynamic approaches to explore the roots of their religious trauma. Since secular therapists do not have any predetermined religious beliefs, they can be particularly helpful for clients looking to explore their own religious beliefs following a history of religious trauma.
What does non religious marriage and premarital counseling involve?
Marriage and premarital counseling typically involves a couple meeting with a therapist to discuss topics such as planning for marriage, navigating a new marriage, addressing relationship challenges, and developing better communication and conflict resolution skills. Non-religious therapists assist couples in achieving these goals without adhering to specific religious beliefs or frameworks, often emphasizing inclusivity and non-judgment, especially for "nontraditional" couples. However, seeking couples therapy from a non-religious counselor does not mean religious topics are off-limits. In fact, non-religious couples from different religious backgrounds may benefit from a secular therapist who remains neutral toward the beliefs of each partner.