Mark S. Macko

Mark S. Macko is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Florida with more than 36 years of experience. He works with adults facing stress, anxiety, grief, bipolar disorder, depression, and life transitions. He emphasizes clear communication, emotional expression, and maintaining hope for change.

Mark has worked across inpatient, outpatient, residential, and partial hospital settings. He spent 19 years working with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and has experience providing care in online settings. His academic background is in psychology and mental health, reflected in steady clinical work over decades.

In session he leans on cognitive behavioral techniques and solution-focused methods while also drawing on Christian-informed perspectives when appropriate. He focuses on practical steps clients can try between meetings and on identifying patterns that keep problems going. Sessions typically center on clear goals, short-term strategies, and tracking progress.

Mark also supports people dealing with issues such as abandonment, aging and geriatric concerns, chronic pain or illness, commitment and communication problems, substance concerns, feelings of emptiness, and isolation. Intellectual disability is listed among his focus areas and may be discussed during intake to clarify needs and supports.

He aims to make therapy straightforward and down-to-earth. The first conversations focus on what is most urgent, what has helped in the past, and small next steps toward feeling better.

How Mark’s Approaches Translate to Online Work

CBT, or cognitive behavioral therapy, focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and changing behaviors that keep problems going. It is useful for anxiety, depression, stress, and managing mood symptoms in conditions such as bipolar disorder.

Solution-Focused Therapy centers on small, practical steps and clear goals. It helps people notice what works, build on strengths, and make forward progress without getting stuck on past problems.

Choosing the right approach is part of the process. The therapist will work collaboratively with each person to decide which strategies fit their needs, goals, and preferences. That decision can shift over time as progress is made or priorities change.

Mark has experience providing care in online settings, but session formats are not specified here. Confirm current session options before booking so you know what is offered. Online therapy can make sessions easier to fit into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and remove travel time so appointments are simpler to attend. It also supports continuing care when life or health events make in-person visits difficult.