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Hello my name is Mara Snider. I am an MFT, CA Lic. # 105397. I utilize a strengths-based, client-centered approach to therapy. I recognize the necessity of developing a safe relationship based on trust and non-judgmental response to meet your needs and honor your experience.
My approach
I like to bring out the best in people. I like to focus on your strengths and emphasize your success as a starting point to bring you to a place of acceptance and hopefulness. I tend to utilize Cognitive and Behavioral theories, Solution Focused, Trauma, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
My focus
I have worked extensively with all age groups as well as families and couples. My focus has been on depression, anxiety, suicidal and self-harm behavior, grief/loss, divorce, autism, dementia, chronic pain, and disability.
My communication style
I tend to take a neutral approach to communication to allow you to express yourself more freely. I offer feedback when I recognize a need that you might be ready to focus on. I work pretty quickly. I like to offer something tangible in the early stages of therapy to introduce possibilities for growth and to be sure that any crises/safety issues are addressed.
My journey to mental healthcare
I was six years old when I was told by my 10-year-old neighbor that I was a good listener. I'm a fan of humans. I also like to know what makes things work. I take my mechanic father's approach to diagnosis and my educator mother's approach to guidance. When I worked as a summer camp counselor I thought - if I could just do this all the time I would be happy. I learned about behavior from working with children with Autism. I applied to my master's program with the intention of helping the families of those with developmental disabilities to increase communication and self-care so that they can enjoy their families and avoid burnout that often results in parents' divorce. I have a bachelor's degree in religious studies and recognize the need in many people to find a system of belief or personal mythology to sustain them through the ups and downs of life. I love to hear people's stories. I find my own fulfillment in sharing their stories and adding something different to their lives through the therapeutic relationship. I learned from working with children with Autism to work myself out of a job. If I do a good job then hopefully at some point you won't need me anymore. I shared this with a young person once who asked if I was ever worried that I wouldn't have any work to do. I responded by saying that unfortunately, that is not my worry, if there were to come a day when we didn't need therapists anymore that would be a day to celebrate. They then asked me what I would do if that were to happen. I said "anything else". I endeavor to increase love in the world and this work allows me to utilize my skills to do so.
My goals for you
I like to find goals that have meaning for you. I gather information about you and offer suggestions if you find goal-setting difficult. I start small to better ensure that you will be successful. I am flexible and always open to changing goals based on your needs.
My first session with you
You can expect that I will open the space for you to fill with whatever you need to share. I review the legal and ethical guidelines for therapy to instill safety and build trust. I like to offer something useful in the initial session so that you feel that I am an active partner in your growth.
