Mark Laster, LCSW-R

Mark Laster is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R) based in New York. He takes a straightforward, solution-minded approach to therapy. He aims to quickly identify what a person needs and offer practical support while they work through hard moments like midlife shifts, loss, or big life stressors.

He focuses on clear steps clients can use right away. Sessions center on what someone wants to change and small, achievable goals that make day-to-day life easier. He uses client-centered listening to understand each person’s priorities and tailors tools from cognitive behavioral and solution-focused methods.

With 12 years of experience, he has worked with people facing mood disorders, grief, relationship strain, workplace stress, and trauma or abuse. He also addresses concerns related to aging, caregiver strain, and challenges that follow brain injury or disaster. His work includes attention to multicultural issues and men's concerns.

In the room he favors short-term, goal-directed work when that fits, while remaining open to longer conversations when needed. Sessions aim to reduce immediate distress and build practical coping skills for everyday life. He also helps people weigh options and connect with useful community resources.

People who call him often want concrete steps and steady support during uncertain times. He encourages collaboration on goals and checks progress along the way.

How his approaches shape online therapy

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and following the client's lead. The therapist provides space to tell a story, reflect on what matters, and set goals that fit the person’s life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at how thoughts and behaviors affect mood. It uses simple exercises to test unhelpful thoughts and build healthier routines. Solution-Focused Therapy zeroes in on small, practical changes that move someone toward their goals quickly.

Picking the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will talk about the options, try techniques, and adjust based on what helps most. This is a collaborative process that centers the client's needs, preferences, and short-term goals.

Confirm current session options before booking to know which formats are available. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy week, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. It can also let people practice coping strategies between meetings and bring real-life examples to sessions for discussion.