As of April 1 2023, all current Medicaid healthcare plan members will need to reverify eligibility for their insurance coverage. We encourage all of our clients to learn more here to ensure their health insurance is not interrupted.

We’re Hiring! View Our Open Positions

Are you a current client? Contact your Clinic

Maggie Ruder, M.Ed, MHC

Mental Health Counselor

I am a clinician at our Lowell clinic who provides therapy services!

My ideal client is learning to navigate life difficulties that impact their emotional well-being. Someone who recognizes that they are struggling in some area of their life, whether emotionally, mentally, or relationally, and is ready to take steps toward meaningful change. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or difficulty adjusting to life transitions. These challenges often impact their daily functioning, relationships, and overall sense of fulfillment. The goals of my ideal client typically include developing healthier coping skills, improving emotional regulation, and gaining insight into patterns that may be holding them back. They want to feel more confident, more balanced, and more in control of their lives. Ultimately, what they’re seeking is an improved quality of life—where they can experience more joy, purpose, and connection.

I’m drawn to evidence-based approaches that empower individuals to better understand themselves and make meaningful changes. One specialty that aligns well with my interests is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps clients identify and reframe unhelpful thought patterns and build effective coping strategies—especially useful for those struggling with anxiety and depression. I’m also interested in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which supports clients in embracing their emotions while taking committed action toward a life aligned with their values. Additionally, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) resonates with me for its practical, goal-oriented approach that emphasizes client strengths and resilience. I incorporate mindfulness-based techniques to enhance emotional regulation and self-awareness, which are crucial for those feeling overwhelmed or disconnected.

I address a client’s needs while creating a safe, non-judgmental space where they can feel heard and validated—perhaps for the first time. They may not always have the words for what they’re experiencing, so they need someone patient who can help them explore and make sense of their emotions. I believe fostering what’s already working in a person’s life is a powerful way to create lasting change. Ultimately, my approach is flexible, client-centered, and grounded in helping people build insight, skills, and confidence to live fuller, more balanced lives.