Dara Markowitz
Since receiving my MSW almost 4 decades ago from the University of Michigan, I have focused on working with those facing life transitions. I’ve worked with college students looking to find focus and direction in their transition to adulthood, refugees looking to make a place for themselves as “new Americans”, and older adults struggling to reinvent themselves after the loss of a spouse or relocation to a new community. I consider my approach eclectic and solution focused. You can expect collaborative and empathic sessions to develop goals you want to work toward. Transitions can be confusing and stressful but have the potential to be exhilarating and life changing. Feel free to reach out, and we can see where you’d like to go.
First session
Generally, the first session is a "get-to- know" you experience. You get an opportunity to tell me about what you are looking for in therapy and a bit about your back story. Realistically, it can take a few sessions to cover the big picture, but usually by the end of the hour, we will be in a good starting place.
Strengths
With many decades of life and work experience, I do my best to create a safe space for our conversation. If you are hoping to use therapy as a place to explore new pathways, reconsider strategies of approaching life challenges, and/or process emotional concerns, we will probably be a good fit.
Ideal clients
While I will accept a broad range of clients, working with those experiencing life changes is often a very good fit for me. Examples include, adults dealing with separation, divorce and loss; adults dealing with career pathways, workplace issues, and transitions to new communities or environments; young adults looking to understand relationship dynamics. Handling anxiety issues is also a common situation in those I work with.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In situations of stress or emotional turmoil, it can be useful to reexamine the situation and emotions from other angles. CBT is "talk therapy". It typically focuses on better understanding behavior patterns to help clients work toward positive goals and practically cope with life challenges.
Narrative
Useful for understanding the stories that we tell ourself and breaking the perceived problems down into more manageable chunks.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Some life situations are best addressed through recognizing and accepting that strong feelings can be appropriate and realistic reactions. Accepting the struggle can assist clients in committing to making necessary changes in their behavior to move forward.
Eclectic
It can be important to provide a mix of strategies as every individual is unique.
Grief Therapy
Grief therapy offers a safe space to talk about the loss and the subsequent struggles to revamp your life. Retaining the positive memories is an important piece of processing grief. Adjusting to a new life situation and identity is another significant piece
Location
Virtual sessions
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Licensed in
- MarylandLicense 06397