Seeing Mark has been very helpful. He has helped me gain focus on what matters. He has also helped me discern and distinguish between which challenges I can act on, and which I cannot. I have been challenged more by him alone than all my previous therapy combined. I have previously had psychologists and therapists who listened to me and showed a very understanding attitude towards my problems and my situation. Mark is not like that. The big difference for me has been that Mark is what I would call “interventionist”. He is up front about this aspect; he clearly says that his is not there to express pity or make me feel “Oh, I am such a victim and this is soooo tough”. If you are looking for a therapist that is that, and if you’re looking for shallow confirmation, you should go elsewhere.

Mark does not “do” superficial. Instead, Mark insists on focusing on what is difficult, the real challenges, and where I must reflect on my own behaviour and type of communication – and do something about it. If the conversation starts to digress or move away from what is essential, Mark will bring it back on track. It is a sort of no-bullshit approach, and with absolute depth. This has been extremely helpful for me.  

As any good therapist, Mark is also an attentive listener. However, I have noticed that he never takes notes, so one would think that he might forget one or two details about your life that you have shared with him. Instead, he remembers pretty much everything, down to detail.

Mark is very up-front, to the point of being provocative – but always for a purpose. Mark sometimes draws models or figures that help explain relationships and types of communication. It is simple, straightforward but meaningful and helps to see patterns. Mark also employs physical “exercises”, using the body as an instrument of cognition, memory and communication. This can help to clarify points, and it enhances memory.

For example, at a session Mark made a drawing about the relational roles of victim/perpetrator/saviour, and how I push myself and others into these relational roles. This made me see myself and my near relationships in a much clearer light. Mark’s inclusion of positive values that could counter what potentially can become a toxic sort of relational dependencies was also quite meaningful to me.

I very much recommend seeing Mark. Because he can help. He will challenge you for sure.