From the Founder
A Letter from the FOunder & CEO
Dear Friends,
When I imagine the future I’m striving to build, I see a world where connection is not an afterthought, but a way of life. Where every person has the chance to feel understood, valued, and seen. I envision communities strengthened not by perfection, but by the courage to show up for one another with curiosity, empathy and compassion.
This, along with my own relationships with trusted friends, inspired me to create the Institute for Relational Change. I wanted to build more than an organization; I wanted to help spark change, change through relationship building. Change that invites people to lead with their vulnerabilities, to learn through curiosity, to think beyond their current understanding, and to build relationships that heal. I wanted to build a space where our greatest possibilities emerge when we truly see one another.
For over twenty-five years, I’ve witnessed transformations that still move me deeply. I’ve seen individuals who felt despair rediscover their light when someone listened without judgement. I’ve seen partners and families rebuild trust piece by piece. I’ve seen people who once felt invisible come alive when seeing their own worth. I’ve watched people embody hope after long seasons of struggle, not because someone gave them the “right answer,” but because someone offered presence, care, and understanding. These moments have taught me that relationships are not just supportive, they are life changing.
At the Institute, we are working to shape a world where relational health is not a luxury, but a right. Where relationships thrive because people understand how to show up for one another. Where practitioners, leaders, and everyday community members feel empowered to create spaces of belonging. Where learning about one another becomes a daily practice, and where wellness is measured not only by outcomes, but by the quality of our lives and our relationships.
I am profoundly grateful to everyone who believes in this vision, assist in nourishing our roots, and joined us along the way. Your support, commitment to equity and relational health are what make this journey possible. Together, we are building something that stretches far beyond today, something capable of changing how relationships heal and communities thrive.
Thank you for believing in a future where relationships and connection lead the way.
With deep gratitude,
DeMarquis Clarke, Ph.D., LMFT
Founder & CEO
Institute for Relational Change
Our Vision
We envision a future in which systems-based family therapy plays a central role in improving mental health outcomes, strengthening relationships, and expanding equity across communities. As a leader in clinical training and a provider of accessible, relationally focused care, the Institute for Relational Change aims to contribute to a world where every person has the opportunity to experience healthy, supportive, and life-giving relationships.
The Institute is dedicated to training the next generation of systemic, culturally responsive clinicians.
SUPPORT
Support individuals, couples, and families attend therapy
Expand
Expand community-based programs that reach underserved neighborhoods
Provide
Provide scholarships for emerging clinicians
Develop
Develop training programs grounded in equity, inclusion, and social justice
The Institute for Relational Change is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing therapy to underserved communities, and training the next generation of systemic, culturally responsive clinicians.
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contact
info@instituteforrelationalchange.org
412-212-8478
1789 S. Braddock Ave. Suite 350
Pittsburgh PA 15218