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| Marla Raymond |
By Lisa Wilcox
Staff Writer
CARIBOU — The building commonly known as “the old registration bureau” on Prospect Street in Caribou recently underwent renovations to become the home of the city’s newest therapy and adult case management service, Healing Hearts, owned and operated by Marla Raymond of Bridgewater.
Raymond has over 10 years’ experience in social work, beginning her career working as a counselor for Hospice, a position she thoroughly enjoyed.
“I found that the end-of-life work I did with families fit in well with my background in theology,” Raymond, who has had her bachelor’s degree in theology since 1977, advised.
After her work with Hospice, Raymond went on to counsel children under the age of 18. When that program was dropped, she moved on to adult case management.
In 2002, Raymond acquired her Master’s Degree in social work with the intent of beginning her own business. Earlier this month, that dream came to fruition for Raymond when Healing Hearts opened for business.
“I’ve had lots of experience, but this is my first venture on my own,” Raymond said.
Raymond acquired the 7 Prospect Street building and did extensive renovations inside, adding a new office, for six total. Raymond’s office, the walls of which display her many certifications and degrees, is bathed in a deep shade of purple.
“In case you couldn’t tell, purple is my favorite color,” Raymond, wearing a lavender jacket, laughed.
Healing Hearts employs four social workers and two clinicians. With administrative staff, there is a total of eight employees. Raymond and her staff offer such services as community integration, adult therapy, Christian counseling and loss and grief counseling.
“That is what we specialize in,” Raymond said, “but we will take referrals on anything.”
Patients are accepted by self-referral, referral from other agencies, or doctor referral.
According to Raymond, Healing Hearts has been doing well.
“Lots of referrals are coming in,” Raymond advised. “I am excited and anxious to move forward.”
For more information about Healing Hearts or to set up an appointment with Raymond or one of her counselors, call 492-1000.
