Mark S. Macko , LMHC

Mark S. Macko is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) practicing in Florida with 36 years of experience supporting people facing stress, anxiety, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, depression, and major life changes. He holds degrees in Psychology and Mental Health and has provided care across a variety of settings, including inpatient and outpatient programs, residential treatment, partial hospital programs, and online services. Over the course of his career he spent 19 years working with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, bringing extensive experience with complex clinical environments to his outpatient and remote work.

Though he does not commit to a single theoretical school, his work is most closely aligned with Christian-based perspectives, cognitive behavioral approaches, and solution-focused methods. He emphasizes clear communication, the healthy expression of emotions, and cultivating hope as central elements of therapeutic change. In practice he helps clients build practical coping strategies, address relationship and communication difficulties, and find ways to move forward after loss or during major life transitions.

Mark approaches each case with a pragmatic focus on goals and strengths, combining evidence-informed techniques with personal values to tailor care to the needs and preferences of each individual client.

Applying Cognitive and Solution-Focused Approaches Online

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps clients identify and shift unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors. In practice it involves collaborative goal-setting, skills for managing stress and anxiety, and exercises to challenge negative thoughts, making it useful for depression, anxiety, and mood regulation.

Solution-Focused Therapy centers on clarifying goals and building on a person’s existing strengths and resources. Sessions are often forward-looking and practical, focusing on small, achievable steps that support coping with life changes, improving communication, or resolving specific concerns.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Mark S. Macko works collaboratively with each client to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. Together they review what is working and adjust the plan as therapy progresses.

Online therapy with a licensed professional offers flexibility to meet clients where they are. Video calls allow for face-to-face interaction, phone sessions suit those who prefer voice contact, and live chat or text-based messaging can be useful for ongoing check-ins or when schedules or mobility make synchronous sessions difficult. These options make it easier to maintain consistent care while adapting methods to each person's life and needs.