Women’s Mental Health Support North of Boston: A Conversation with Light Work Therapy and Recovery

Group of women sitting in a circle during supportive mental health therapy session

Women across Woburn, Reading, Burlington, and surrounding North of Boston communities are balancing careers, families, caregiving, and personal goals—often all at once. While many appear “fine” on the outside, the mental and emotional load can quietly build over time.

Recently, I sat down with Molly and Jackie from Light Work to talk about women’s mental health, burnout, and why having the right support system matters more than ever.

In this conversation, we explored how their unique program helps professional women reconnect with themselves, rebuild balance, and get the support they deserve—without disrupting their lives.

🎥 Watch the full interview below.

What Is Light Work and How Did It Begin?

Light Work was founded with one clear mission: to support women’s mental health in a deeper, more accessible way.

Jackie, one of the founders, began in private practice working one-on-one with women. As demand grew, it became clear that many women needed more than just one hour of therapy per week.

Together with Molly, they expanded the practice to offer structured, ongoing support for women navigating anxiety, depression, postpartum challenges, life transitions, and burnout.

Their goal is simple: make high-quality mental health care more available and more normalized.

Why Women’s Mental Health Needs More Support

During our conversation, one theme stood out clearly: healthy women create healthy communities.

Women often serve as:

  • Caregivers for children and parents
  • Leaders in the workplace
  • Educators and volunteers
  • Emotional anchors for families


When women are overwhelmed or struggling, it affects every part of their lives.

Many women are so focused on supporting others that they forget to prioritize themselves—until burnout sets in.

Light Work Therapy & Recovery encourages women to turn some of that care inward and finally make themselves a priority.

Signs You May Need Extra Mental Health Support

Molly and Jackie shared several common signs they see in women who reach out for help.

You may benefit from additional support if you:

  • Feel “stuck” or disconnected from yourself
  • No longer feel like the person you used to be
  • Feel constantly overwhelmed or exhausted
  • Wake up anxious or depressed
  • Struggle to get through daily routines
  • Feel emotionally reactive or irritable
  • Feel like you’re just “going through the motions”


Many women say, “This came out of nowhere.”

In reality, stress often builds slowly over time.

Recognizing these signs early can make a huge difference.

How Their Mental Health Program Works

LightWork offers an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), designed for women who need more than traditional weekly therapy—but don’t require hospitalization.

Here’s what the program looks like:

Program Structure

  • 3 hours per day
  • 4 days per week
  • Morning, afternoon, and evening tracks
  • Average program length: about 7 weeks


What’s Included

Participants receive:

✔️ Group therapy sessions
✔️ Individual counseling
✔️ Skill-building workshops
✔️ Guest speakers
✔️ Yoga therapy
✔️ Medication management
✔️ Case management support

This combination allows women to receive personalized care while benefiting from a supportive community.

A Space Designed for Healing

One of the most impressive parts of LightWork is the environment itself.

Rather than feeling clinical or sterile, the space feels:

  • Warm
  • Calm
  • Comfortable
  • Inviting


With soft colors, real plants, cozy seating, and thoughtful design, the space feels more like a wellness retreat than a medical facility.

This helps clients feel safe and relaxed when working through difficult topics.

Creating a peaceful environment is a key part of the healing process.

Who This Program Is Designed For

Many of Light Work’s clients are professional women who are:

  • Balancing careers and family
  • Caring for aging parents
  • Adjusting to new motherhood
  • Navigating divorce or major life changes
  • Experiencing work-related stress


The program is women-only, which adds an extra layer of comfort and understanding for many participants.

Their trauma-informed approach ensures that every client feels respected, supported, and heard.

How Light Work Helps Women Beyond the Program

Support doesn’t stop when the program ends.

Light Work also helps clients connect with:

  • Long-term therapists
  • Psychiatrists
  • Nutritionists
  • Couples counselors
  • Family therapists


If someone needs a higher level of care, they also assist with referrals to specialized facilities throughout Massachusetts.

Their goal is to ensure every woman gets the right help—no matter what stage she’s in.

Frequently Asked Questions About Women’s Mental Health Programs

How do I know if I need more than weekly therapy?

If your mental health is affecting your daily life, work, or relationships, additional support may help.

Is this program only for severe mental health issues?

No. It’s designed for women who need more support than traditional therapy but don’t need hospitalization.

Can I attend while working full-time?

Yes. Evening and flexible tracks allow many women to participate without leaving their jobs.

How long does the program usually last?

Most women complete the program in about seven weeks, depending on individual needs.

What if I’m not sure this is right for me?

A consultation can help determine the best next step for your situation.

Supporting Women in Our North of Boston Communities

Conversations like this remind me how important it is to have strong support systems right here in our local communities.

If you or someone you love is feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or burned out, know that help is available—and asking for it is a sign of strength.

As someone deeply connected to the North of Boston community, I’m always grateful to spotlight organizations that are truly making a difference.

If you’d like more local resources, community features, or support navigating major life transitions, feel free to reach out anytime.

You don’t have to do it alone. Learn about how I support North of Boston residents here.

LET US KEEP YOU IN THE LOOP

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