Frances Higgins, LICSW

Frances Higgins is a LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) with 30 years of practice in Massachusetts. She works with adults coping with stress, anxiety, depression, anger, addictions, relationship strain, parenting challenges, trauma and related concerns. Her practice also addresses issues such as grief, intimacy problems, self-esteem struggles, ADHD, and compassion fatigue.

She begins by listening and then decides with each person which approach fits best. Sessions are collaborative and practical. Frances draws on different methods to match the issue at hand rather than using a single fixed style.

Her work uses client-centered principles, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy. For people who have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, she brings trauma theory into the work to help manage symptoms and support recovery. That may include building coping skills and safety planning in the conversation.

Frances also helps with complex family-related topics such as adoption and foster care, attachment questions, blended family issues, communication problems, divorce and separation, and domestic violence. She addresses first responder stress, HIV/AIDS related concerns, and issues like codependency and forgiveness.

Her style favors clear, usable strategies: identifying patterns, practicing new behaviors, and reviewing what helps between sessions. People who want straightforward guidance on handling anger, repairing relationships, or managing intense emotions will find a practical, steady approach.

Therapeutic approaches and online sessions