Marla Dakin, LCSW

Marla Dakin Headshot.jpg

You don’t have to do this alone. You want to help your child, but it feels like no matter what you do, you just can’t break through. Their behaviors, emotions, and the stress at home are only increasing. It’s impacting everything—their schooling, friendships, and family dynamics. You see them scrolling through social media, binging Netflix, or retreating to their room, but they don’t talk to you about what’s really going on. That silence? It’s the hardest part.

You know your child is hurting, and it’s painful to feel so powerless to make things better. You’ve tried everything you can think of, but nothing seems to work.

Finding the right help can feel overwhelming. With so many therapists and options out there, it’s hard to know where to start or who to trust. That’s where I come in.

In addition to being the Founder and Clinical Director of Farmington Valley Counseling Center, I’m also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and certified school social worker with over 25 years of experience supporting children, teens, and families through life’s most challenging moments.

My focus is on helping kids and parents manage anxiety, foster emotional resilience, and find hope for the future.

Using evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness, I teach practical strategies that clients can apply immediately and carry with them for years to come. My work centers on helping kids and families recognize and express their emotions, navigate anxiety, and create meaningful goals so they can feel confident and hopeful again.

As a mom of two teens myself, I understand the challenges you’re facing—not just as a therapist but as a parent who’s been in the trenches. I know what it’s like and I’m here to support you and your family to restore peace in your home… and your heart.

Here are some ways I help:  

Child Therapy

I help children who are struggling with anxiety and social challenges to learn how to recognize and understand their anxious feelings and to use strategies to overcome their worries and fears.  

Teen & Young Adult Therapy

I help teens and young adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and school related stressors to talk about their struggles and to learn how to better manage their feelings and to create meaningful relationships and goals for their future.  

Parent Therapy

I help overwhelmed parents to verbalize their concerns, gain perspective on their unique situations, and learn how to effectively parent children with social, emotional, or behavioral issues so they can feel a sense of hope that things can and will get better.  

Coaching for Moms of Anxious Teens

For moms seeking additional guidance, I also offer online workshops, webinars, and coaching programs through my coaching business. These programs are designed to empower moms to feel confident, capable, and in control when navigating anxiety with their teens (really, kids of any age). Learn more about my coaching services at marladakin.com.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You don’t have to stay stuck in the stress and uncertainty. Let’s work together to create a brighter, calmer future for your child and your family. Call or click below to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.

I serve clients across the Farmington Valley region, including Avon, Simsbury, Granby, West Hartford, Canton, Burlington, Bristol, Plainville, and Farmington, at our Avon, CT, and Farmington, CT offices. I offer in person and telehealth sessions.

Credentials:

  • Founder & Clinical Director, Farmington Valley Counseling Center

  • CT Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #004924)

  • CT Certified School Social Worker (#071)

  • M.S. in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University School of Social Work (NY, NY)

  • B.S. in Psychology from College of the Holy Cross (Worcester, MA)

  • Trained in The RULER Approach at Yale University School of Emotional Intelligence

  • 20+ years working as a school social worker (grades pre-K through 12)

  • Knowledgeable regarding CT special education laws and procedures, as well as school-based support services for students

  • Featured mental health expert on Fox61 CT