Ken Bitner, LICSW- Therapy Gnome

Who I am

I'm Ken, the Therapy Gnome. I have been providing outpatient therapy services since 2019, having worked in community-based supports, group homes, and community clinics before that. I earned my MSW from Simmons College in 2016. My experience has included a wide range of mental health needs, but my focus has never been on diagnoses.

Prior to becoming a Social Worker, I earned a Master of Divinity degree from the University of Chicago. My undergraduate degree was in Religious Studies. While I am not a faith-based counselor, the depth that spirituality in all its forms and the profound questions of philosophical thought deeply inform how I support clients in better knowing themselves, with the goal of living out their values more each day.

Why a gnome?

Perhaps it seems slightly unprofessional to have such a silly name. And that is exactly my goal. If the right therapist for you is quiet, serious, and always calm, I can help you find them. I am a therapist who relies on conversation, humor, creativity, and occasional bad language to support the people who come to me, but I don't take myself seriously, whenever possible.

I chose the gnome for many reasons. One, I just like them. Traditionally, gnomes were seen as helpful and protective spirits of the farmstead or household, with a slightly mischievous side. Gnomes are also associated with digging, like the process of turning inward, to better know ourselves. I like to say that I wield a compassionate pickaxe when clients want to break through emotional walls. Finally, gnomes are found in gardens, which are my favorite metaphor for self growth and our whole lives: we must till and prepare the soil; choose what we want to grow and nourish, and what we don't; and we must accept the winter periods when rest is required for future growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please contact me below if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Do you offer virtual appointments?

All sessions are done virtually, through an easy-to-use HIPAA-compliant website. Clients must be physically present in Massachusetts or Maine at the time of sessions.

What populations or issues do you work with?

I provide therapy for adult individuals. I have worked extensively with neurodiversity, sexuality and gender identity, male-identified clients, and relationship building. I acknowledge that being a white, male-presenting person shapes my understanding, but I try to constantly challenge myself to be more anitracist and to learn more about the experience of marginalized individuals and groups.

What styles of therapy do you use?

While the tools are unique to each client, my grounding modalities are Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). With clients who are interested, I also utilize spirituality and religion-focused practices to support growth.

How much does a session cost?

My rate is $150 for a standard 50-minute individual session.

Do you take insurance?

Yes, I currently accept Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare/Optum. Within these organizations, plans can vary greatly, with very different provider networks, so we will confirm your individual coverage.

How do I schedule an appointment with you?

To schedule an initial consultation, free of charge, click the "Request Appointment" button at the top of the page. If you have questions, please use the form below, or contact via phone, text, or WhatsApp in the Contact Me section

Seriously though, why a gnome?

Because life is heavy, but levity helps. Also, I have a beard.