Mark Sikora, LICSW

Mark Sikora is a licensed clinical social worker who helps people facing big midlife questions and related strains. He brings steady, long-term experience and a calm presence to conversations about change, loss, and direction.

He listens first and asks clear questions to help people sort what matters most. Sessions focus on practical steps and on noticing what gets in the way of moving forward. He frames difficulties as problems to be worked on together rather than labels to define someone.

Over four decades of practice have given him experience with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addictions, bipolar concerns, and stress from life transitions. He also supports people dealing with relationship friction, intimacy issues, parenting stress, caregiving burden, and the effects of chronic illness. He speaks English and practices in Washington as a LICSW - Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker.

In-session work can include clear behavioral experiments, skills for managing intense moments, and conversations that clarify values and goals. He uses approaches such as acceptance and commitment techniques, cognitive behavioral strategies, and client-centered listening to shape each plan.

People who come for help leave with doable steps and a clearer sense of priorities. Mark aims to make the work direct and understandable so progress can fit into a busy life.

How therapy approaches translate to online care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters to them and take action toward those values while accepting difficult feelings. It is often used for life transitions, anxiety, and persistent low mood. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on noticing patterns of thinking and behavior and trying small experiments to change them; it is useful for depression, anxiety, and stress. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes empathetic listening and collaboration, giving people space to tell their story and make their own choices about change.

Choosing the right mix of approaches is part of the work. The therapist will discuss goals, preferences, and what has or has not helped before. Together they will try methods that match the person's needs and adjust the plan as progress is made.

Session formats are not listed in the biography, so confirm current session options before booking. Many people find online therapy helps fit sessions into a busy schedule and keeps momentum between visits. Online work can make it easier to schedule shorter check-ins, avoid travel time, or use a phone call when video would be difficult. Licensed professionals can adapt ACT, CBT, and client-centered techniques to work in a remote setting so that practical skills and values-based planning move forward even when meetings are not in person.