Erica Gilman, MS, LMFT
she/her
“Relationships can be one of the strongest pillars supporting our lives and shaping the course of our journey. They require continuous attention and care, as well as the flexibility to change our ‘dance’ with one another when life throws something new our way. When this pillar becomes unsteady, we shake, bend, and may stumble before we find our footing again. If and when it is rebuilt, you may find that this version is stronger than before—strengthened by the renewed and intentional choice to remain there for one another. That is hope.”
Erica grew up in a small town, where everyone knew—and still knows—everyone, sparking an insatiable curiosity about the intricacies of human relationships. Before earning her Master’s degree in Couple and Family Therapy, she studied English literature, sociology, women’s studies, health education, and writing. Along the way, she worked as a waitress, a bookseller, and an LGBTQ+ youth support leader—experiences that continue to shape the warmth, curiosity, and perspective she brings to her work.
In her work with couples, Erica blends humor, a keen eye for relationship patterns, and a deep respect for the idea that you are ultimately the expert on your own life. She believes that relational work is one of the most rewarding and meaningful endeavors we can undertake. Whether you’re navigating everyday conflict, raising children, building a stepfamily, or deciding whether to rebuild or thoughtfully end your relationship, Erica serves as a knowledgeable translator when partners find themselves speaking seemingly different languages, a guide when a relationship reaches unfamiliar territory, and a therapist who offers both practical strategies and emotional understanding. Outside the therapy room, you can usually find her with her nose in a book or exploring the outdoors with her wild child.
Services Offered: Erica provides online couples therapy for couples throughout Massachusetts and for international couples.
Ask Me About: The practicality of love, the rise of the romance genre, or the suffering of a good mountain bike ride.
Ever since I was young, I’ve been: Detail-oriented, imaginative, obsessed with love stories, and trying to befriend stray cats.
Favorite Quote: “When the truth isn’t hopeful, the telling of it is.” — Andrea Gibson
Favorite Couples: Couples who are willing to do the uncomfortable work of growing, admit fault, and laugh together despite everything. Erica especially enjoys working with couples navigating parenting, stepfamily life, or making the intentional decision to rebuild—or thoughtfully end—their relationship.
Education
M.S. in Human Development and Family Science, with a specialization in Couple and Family Therapy – University of Rhode Island
Advanced Training
Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Levels I & II
Pragmatic Experiential Therapy for Couples (PET-C), Levels I & II
Motivational Interviewing
Patricia Papernow’s Meeting the (Big!) Challenges for Blended Families