Dr. Mary K. Barkley grew up in Flushing, Michigan. She received both her undergraduate degree in Dental Hygiene (1976) and her D.D.S. (1984) from the University of Michigan, and her Cert. Orthodontics from the University of Detroit-Mercy (1986).

Dr. Barkley was the sole proprietor of Chelsea Orthodontics for 30 years, and currently practices as a partner in Detroit Orthodontic Specialists. She has been very involved in organized orthodontics, having served as President of both the Michigan Association of Orthodontists and the Great Lakes Association of Orthodontists, and on the American Association of Orthodontists Council of Orthodontic Practice for four terms.

She lives in Ann Arbor with her husband Gregory L. Barkley, M.D. They have two adult sons.