- ACT informed
- CBT techniques
- Gottman work
About Mark
Mark Sikora is a LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) practicing in Washington with 40 years of experience. He works with people facing depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family concerns, and other life stresses listed in his profile. He emphasizes practical steps and clear communication in early sessions.
Mark listens for what a person already knows about their situation and helps build on those strengths. He explains things plainly and uses straightforward techniques rather than jargon. Early work often focuses on stabilizing sleep, eating, and daily routines when those areas are affected.
For anxiety and panic he uses methods that include noticing thoughts and shifting focus toward meaningful action. When grief or loss is present he recognizes grief can change over time and adjusts his support as needs shift. He also addresses challenges tied to caregiving, chronic illness, and major life changes.
Mark draws from several well-known approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and the Gottman Method. He helps people apply these methods in real situations - for example practicing communication skills or testing out small behavioral changes between sessions.
Sessions are conducted in a direct, conversational style with an emphasis on practical tools and real-world problem solving. He aims to help people manage symptoms, clarify goals, and take steps toward functioning better in daily life.
How his therapeutic approaches are used in online sessions
Mark uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help people notice difficult thoughts and choose actions that match their values. ACT focuses on mindful awareness and moving toward meaningful goals even when anxiety or worry is present.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to identify unhelpful thinking patterns and to try small experiments that test new ways of thinking and behaving. CBT techniques can be helpful for panic, social anxiety, sleep problems, and mood changes.
He also draws on Client-Centered Therapy to keep the session conversational and focused on the person's own perspective. This approach centers the client's experience and preferences while planning practical steps forward.
Finding the right approach tends to be collaborative. He will discuss options, try methods that fit the person's goals, and adjust as needed based on what helps. Clients work together with him to choose which techniques to prioritize in session work.
Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current online session options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy week, allow shorter check-ins when time is limited, and let people practice communication skills in everyday settings without adding travel time.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
40+ years
Listed in
Washington
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does he work with?
He works with depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship and family issues among many other concerns listed in his profile.
What is his general approach in sessions?
He uses straightforward, conversational sessions that focus on practical skills and behavior changes drawn from multiple therapeutic approaches.
How much experience does he have?
He has 40 years of professional experience practicing as a LICSW in Washington.
Where is he licensed to practice?
He is a LICSW licensed in Washington state with the credential shown as WA LICSW LW.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people from other countries work together?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are fees handled?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin a first session?
Click the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule your first session.