What patients are saying
Overall rating
5.00
“We love Marlene, she has been wonderful and so patient working with our child. My child has been with her for close to 5yrs now and it's just been a blessing to have her work with my child. Even on those days that my kid didn't want to do therapy, Marlene was ok with it and instead used that time to get to know them. Now, my kid looks forward to their appointments and can't wait to talk to her. She's very caring, funny, and empathetic with my child and those are the qualities I look for.”
Less than 1 month ago
“Only been my therapist for about 2 months and she was my first match and I absolutely love her and she makes me feel safe and comfortable. She‚Äôs so trustworthy.”
Less than 1 month ago
About Marlene Willis-Akins
Focus areas
Adolescent / Teen Issues
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Women's Mental Health Issues
Anxiety
Self Esteem Issues
Work-Related Counseling
Coping Mechanism Development
Women's Issues Therapy
Clientele seen
Children (<13)
Teenagers (13-17)
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Treatment approaches
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)
Motivational Interviewing
Trauma Focused
Psychodynamic
Identity
Gender
FemaleFaith
ChristianLanguages spoken
English
Getting to know Marlene Willis-Akins
Life can present challenges that feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, or adjusting to a new chapter in life, I’m here to provide a safe and supportive space. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, work through obstacles, and identify the next steps that feel right for you.
My approach
My approach is straightforward and no-nonsense, while remaining deeply empathetic and supportive. I believe in being honest and clear, helping you face challenges head-on with practical strategies. At the same time, I strive to motivate and encourage you, creating a space where you feel empowered to take meaningful steps toward growth and change.
My focus
I help children and their families navigate emotional and behavioral challenges, support teens and young adults through life transitions, and guide professionals and entrepreneurs in finding balance and clarity. My approach is straightforward, empathetic, and empowering to guide you toward growth.
My communication style
I communicate with honesty and clarity, creating a space where clients feel heard and respected. My tone is calm, compassionate, and encouraging, while remaining direct and solution-focused. I aim to foster trust and motivation, helping clients feel supported as they work toward meaningful change.
My journey to mental healthcare
As a single mother of three, I’ve learned the power of communication and understanding. My journey inspired me to help children express themselves, guide parents to truly listen, and support individuals in discovering what works best for them—creating space for growth and confidence.
My goals for you
I work collaboratively with clients to identify clear, realistic goals that reflect their unique needs and values. Together, we break these goals into manageable steps, using practical strategies and consistent support.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
Enter your insurance carrier and plan
choose insurance
In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Pacific Oaks College, Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy
NPI number
1972988624
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
5.00
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
8 reviews
Most relevant
Marlene is down-to-earth and collaborative, easy to talk to.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
Marlene is down-to-earth and collaborative, easy to talk to.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
We love Marlene, she has been wonderful and so patient working with our child. My child has been with her for close to 5yrs now and it's just been a blessing to have her work with my child. Even on those days that my kid didn't want to do therapy, Marlene was ok with it and instead used that time to get to know them. Now, my kid looks forward to their appointments and can't wait to talk to her. She's very caring, funny, and empathetic with my child and those are the qualities I look for.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
Only been my therapist for about 2 months and she was my first match and I absolutely love her and she makes me feel safe and comfortable. She’s so trustworthy.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
She has been awesome with helping both parenting needs and family issues. I like her approach and the fact that she listens to my needs.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
We love Marlene, she has been wonderful and so patient working with our child. My child has been with her for close to 5yrs now and it's just been a blessing to have her work with my child. Even on those days that my kid didn't want to do therapy, Marlene was ok with it and instead used that time to get to know them. Now, my kid looks forward to their appointments and can't wait to talk to her. She's very caring, funny, and empathetic with my child and those are the qualities I look for.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
She has been awesome with helping both parenting needs and family issues. I like her approach and the fact that she listens to my needs.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
Only been my therapist for about 2 months and she was my first match and I absolutely love her and she makes me feel safe and comfortable. She’s so trustworthy.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
How soon can I make an appointment with Marlene Willis-Akins?
Generally, Marlene Willis-Akins has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Marlene Willis-Akins's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Marlene Willis-Akins accepting new patients?
Marlene Willis-Akins generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Marlene Willis-Akins's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Marlene Willis-Akins accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Marlene Willis-Akins is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Marlene Willis-Akins online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Marlene Willis-Akins using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Marlene Willis-Akins work with?
Marlene Willis-Akins works with Rula Health - L.A. Proper.
What are common reasons for patients to see Marlene Willis-Akins?
Marlene Willis-Akins frequently sees patients for Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Marlene Willis-Akins on their profile.
What languages does Marlene Willis-Akins speak?
Marlene Willis-Akins speaks English.