- Goal focused
- Resource oriented
- Short-term strategies
About Mark
Mark Laster is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R) based in New York who focuses on practical, solution-oriented help. He takes a straightforward approach: identify immediate needs, connect people with useful resources, and provide ongoing support through change. He emphasizes prompt, focused work for adults facing life stressors.
He prioritizes short-term, goal-focused strategies that aim to reduce distress and restore daily functioning. Sessions often center on problem solving, building coping skills, and reshaping unhelpful thinking patterns. Cognitive and practical tools are used to address difficulties like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Mark has 12 years of experience in clinical social work. That background informs his attention to resources outside therapy, such as community supports and practical services that help people manage daily demands. He also addresses long-term mood concerns and complex life transitions in a step-by-step way.
Areas of focus include stress, grief, bipolar and mood disorders, trauma and abuse, relationship and family concerns, caregiver stress, aging and geriatric issues, and coping with natural or human-caused disaster. He also supports people with hearing impairment and those navigating multicultural challenges.
His style is collaborative and direct. He helps people set clear goals, try focused strategies, and measure what works. Readers should confirm current session options before booking to ensure they match personal needs.
How his approaches guide online therapy
Client-Centered Therapy focuses on the person's experience and priorities, giving space to talk and helping the therapist understand what matters most. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, looks at how thoughts and behaviors affect feelings and teaches practical skills to change patterns that cause distress. Solution-Focused Therapy concentrates on small, achievable steps and on what a person wants to see happen next rather than dwelling on the past.Choosing the right approach is part of the work together. He will talk with each person about goals, preferences, and what feels most helpful. That collaboration helps shape whether sessions focus more on skill-building, problem solving, or exploring personal concerns.
Confirm current session options before booking so you know which formats are offered. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions into busy days, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. It also lets people try focused, homework-style CBT tools between meetings and keeps momentum on practical steps identified in solution-focused work.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
12+ years
Credentials
New York
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does he address?
He helps with stress, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief, and low self-esteem. He also works with trauma, relationship and family concerns, anger, career changes, and coping with life changes.
What is his therapeutic style like?
His approach is solution-focused and practical. Sessions aim to identify immediate needs, set goals, and use focused strategies to address problems.
How much clinical experience does he have?
He has 12 years of experience as a clinician. That experience shapes his attention to practical resources and step-by-step interventions.
Where is he licensed and practicing?
He holds the LCSW-R credential in New York and practices in that state. Location details are listed as New York.
Which languages are offered for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
International clients are not currently accepted. He works with people located within the stated region.
How are fees structured?
Costs vary with location and therapist availability. Sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
What are the first steps to begin therapy?
Start by selecting the Start Therapy button and completing a short matching questionnaire. Then schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.