

As a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Psychiatric Advance Practice Clinical Nurse Specialist I help patients through integrative mind/body/spirit care to reconnect with their inner wisdom and move forward in life decisions.
I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can bring questions, struggles, and hopes. Many of my clients want to better understand themselves, explore patterns in relationships, or find healthier boundaries. I learn from you.
I am a licensed social worker in Massachusetts and Maryland with a Master of Social Work from Simmons College of Social Work and over 30 years of experience serving diverse communities. My work has included, but is not limited to, Early Head Start, therapeutic schools, supporting elders at risk, and 16 years helping clients in the community manage and understand how to navigate community living and family systems dynamics while experiencing chronic mental health challenges.
I believe a person is not a diagnosis, and a diagnosis is not a person. My approach draws on the biopsychosocial model and developmental frameworks from Erickson and Piaget, alongside evidence-based methods like but not limited to DBT, CBT, and CET. I work with you to discover which approaches feel most helpful, focusing on building a client-centered, trusting relationship where challenges can be explored and skills practiced as our therapeutic work grows and strengthens.
I'm Dr. Jillian Burkley, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes therapy works best when it feels like a real conversation—not a clinical appointment. I've spent years working with people through some of their hardest moments, from crisis situations in hospital emergency departments to ongoing support in community settings. I work with kids, teens, adults, and families dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and everything in between.
I received my Doctorate in Social Work from Simmons University, and my experience has taught me that people are incredibly resilient—sometimes they need someone in their corner to help them see it. That's where I come in.
With over 10 years of clinical experience, I specialize in helping individuals and families navigate complex and deeply personal challenges including substance use disorders, self-harm, parenting concerns, adoption and foster care issues, and attachment disorders. Whether you’re facing a crisis or seeking long-term support, my goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where meaningful change can happen.
I specialize recovery from narcissistic relationship abuse, as well as anxiety and depression. I am a solution-focused, direct and experienced provider who believes in giving immediate feedback. I have been a clinical social worker for 24+ years and in private practice since 2007 and I look forward to working with you
My journey stems from my own story of resilience in the face of hardships. I became a therapist because I have always wanted to help people through some of their darkest hours. Being exposed to some dark hours myself, I know that it is difficult to do it alone. When you have someone to confide in, assist you through the hard times, and just let you know that you are not alone, makes a difference.
My therapeutic approach includes CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Relational Therapy, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, SFT, EMT, Gestalt, and just speaking like a human being. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed space where you can feel safe, seen, and supported. My approach is relational and personalized—we'll explore your story together, build coping tools, and move toward healing with curiosity, courage, and care.
Therapy with me is real, down-to-earth, and never boring. I mix honesty, humor, and heart to make the process comfortable. I help adults manage emotions, build confidence, and tackle life's challenges with tools that work. Think of it as a safe space to be yourself, grow, and maybe laugh along the way.
I'll help you gain tangible skills to manage life's challenges. We’ll honor your past experiences while staying focused on creating a healthier, more intentional future.


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