Mark is a Christian, but he honors the personal beliefs and convictions of the clients he serves and in his counseling practice strives to help individuals along their personal journey. He does not impose his views on his clients, but his Christianity does inform his world view. Clients choose if and how they would like to incorporate their personal faith into counseling. Mark’s experience has convicted him that the spiritual dimension of life is an important component to long-term change, growth, and well-being, but he will always work for change and healing based on where the client is. If you walk in the door and you are non-religious, you will feel welcome and comfortable with Mark.

How does Mark incorporate spirituality in his counseling?

It is ultimately up to each client. If a client chooses to incorporate their personal faith, then Mark will start from that position. Each person’s journey and needs are different and so Mark will individualize his approach to those differences. While part of what makes Mark’s therapy effective is challenging individuals to grow, he also wants to walk alongside people in their journey and assist them in their growing and healing with questions, techniques, and spiritual insights. His goal is to make the spiritual dimensions of life comfortable for everyone he works with. For some that would include praying with and for them. Some may be comfortable incorporating the Bible into their therapy, while others may find that unacceptable. Mark hopes to model and teach people that God is full of grace, mercy, and love and desires that we all treat every other person with that same grace, mercy, love, and respect.

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a patient and psychologist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client. However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.

• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.

• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.

• If a client is a threat to national security.

In addition, each person seeking relationship counseling (couples or partners) must understand that the treatment unit is the couple or the relationship. Couples are asked to sign the 'No Secrets Policy' that governs communication between the therapist and each member of the couple or partnership.

Do you accept insurance?