Mark Houston, LCSW

We engage in therapy for many reasons. At some point in our lives, nearly all of us experience depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, professional problems, or other disruptive hurdles. We may question if we really need therapy, and might even blame ourselves for not being able to figure things out on our own. The reality is, sometimes we need an outside perspective to get on track or to understand why we keep having the same undesirable outcomes in our relationships, at work, or in any other aspect of our lives. I seek to support you in understanding your behaviors, thoughts, and feelings, which result in personal discomfort and relationship conflicts. These challenges can often come from past experiences that were left unresolved, and which we wish to avoid in the future. Some of these experiences can even be traumatic, causing a ripple effect leading to the creation of coping skills we use to protect ourselves. These protective behaviors, or patterns, help us push forward. Unfortunately, sometimes these patterns are not always helpful to our success and growth. In some cases, the ways we have learned to cope and support ourselves may have become an additional problem. Our histories are infused with stories of strength, resilience, and survival. I believe people do the best they can with the resources available to them at the time. Together we will explore patterns of behavior, which no longer serve you. Our sessions always move at your own pace and without judgment. I approach my work from an anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and trauma-informed lens. I acknowledge the world we live in is informed by systems and practices that impart oppressive power on individuals, groups, and communities. Our experiences and behaviors are often rooted in these systems, which can make us feel powerless. My intent is to actively acknowledge these systems and honor your lived experience while identifying forward movement in the completion of your goals. I can help you increase your motivation to change, expand your ability to express yourself, improve your communication skills, and identify/implement relationship boundaries, which are more beneficial to you. Whether you have short-term or long-term goals, I am excited to meet you and work with you in realizing your potential!