Therapy that gets to the real you. Comfortable, confidential, and designed to fit you
Therapy that gets to the real you. Comfortable, confidential, and designed to fit you
Hi, I’m Dr. Marks. I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with experience helping people work through ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and relationship struggles. I also have a special interest in supporting people navigating big life transitions — whether that’s early adulthood, parenting, or figuring out who you are later in life.
I earned my master’s degree in sociology from the University of Central Missouri and my doctorate in clinical psychology from the APA-accredited American School of Professional Psychology. Over the years, I’ve worked with a wide range of people — from families navigating the foster care system, to individuals serving life sentences, to older adults adjusting to retirement and aging. Those experiences taught me that people are more resilient than they think, but everyone needs a little support sometimes.
In therapy, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, Positive Psychology, Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy. I also developed my own approach called the VAE model — which focuses on learning how to validate, affirm, and encourage both yourself and others. These are the building blocks for healthier relationships, stronger self-esteem, and more effective communication.
I provide virtual therapy to clients across Missouri and several other states through PSYPACT. You can check the most up-to-date list of states where I’m authorized to practice at https://psypact.site-ym.com/page/psypactmap.
My clinical approach blends insight-oriented therapy with practical tools for change. I believe people thrive when they feel seen, respected, and supported — not pathologized.
My work is rooted in a core practice I call VAE: Validation, Affirmation, and Encouragement. These aren’t just comforting ideas — they’re critical strategies for helping people reclaim their voice and restore emotional safety in their relationships.
I also help clients explore patterns across the lifespan, understanding how early relationships, systemic influences, and internalized roles shape the way they function today. This often includes helping people slow down, reflect, and begin to choose differently.
While my therapy style is open-ended and relational, I also integrate structured approaches when appropriate — including tools from DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Ultimately, therapy with me is collaborative. You won’t be handed a formula. You’ll be invited into a space where your full self can show up — messy, complex, brilliant, and in-process.