About Mark Jacobsen
It’s Never Too Late For A Fresh Start
No matter where you are in life, it is never too late to change the course of your journey. Throughout life, it’s easy to get stuck in unhealthy patterns of thinking and behaving—but you don’t have to stay stuck. With the right help and support, you can change how you see the world and break out of unhealthy habits. True healing can take place in the presence of an empathetic and trustworthy other—and that’s why therapy can be a catalyst for change.
My goal is to be that empathetic and trustworthy other, while at the same time being an accountability partner as you strive for your goals. I make space to explore emotions, increase your capacity to identify and share your full range of feelings, and work toward wholeness so that you can make informed, proactive decisions about the future. I truly believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship, and that’s what excites me most about the work I do.
My Journey Into The World Of Therapy
I have always been a sensitive, warm, and caring person. Along with the desire to put these qualities to use, a passion for serving others was a key factor in my career choice. As a young adult, I sought the care and clinical expertise of therapists who helped me greatly. To this day, I continue to engage in excellent clinical supervision and receive trustworthy support from other professionals in my field.
My Approach To The Healing Process
I specialize in working with couples and individual adults. In one-on-one counseling, I help people work through anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other mental health challenges. I am especially passionate about assisting people in recovery from substance abuse, having worked in substance abuse treatment programs early in my career.
In my work with couples, I facilitate constructive dialogue so couples can understand each other on a deeper level. Throughout the process, I draw attention to the patterns in their relationship so that they can see where their disconnection really lies. We explore the issues each member brings to the relationship, examining behavioral patterns and ways of thinking related to their upbringing and family of origin. This understanding leads to empathy around sensitivities each partner may have stemming from childhood wounds.
Additionally, I facilitate a therapy group for men who are interested in learning to identify and express their feelings more effectively and improve their relationships. These groups give men a chance to realize they are not alone. They have the opportunity to build rapport with guys who are just like them and learn to create connections inside the group. This often translates to creating connections in their lives outside of the group.
With all my clients, I like to emphasize the importance of physical well-being and exercise in the healing process. After all, the mind and body are deeply connected—no mental health treatment can be truly all-encompassing without incorporating the wisdom of the body. Getting healthier physically can help you get healthier emotionally. I encourage clients to find an exercise routine that works for them and suits their physical abilities.
A Little Bit About Me
Outside of therapy, I love spending time with my three grown children and our Labrador Retriever, going to movies, and supporting the arts in whatever way I can. And as you might guess, exercise is a huge part of my everyday life. I especially love hiking and am always on the lookout for new trails to try out. Both mental and physical wellness are deeply important to me.
People who know me often remember me for my kindness, sincerity, sense of humor, and a calming and attentive demeanor. I bring these qualities into therapy, allowing me to create an atmosphere of warmth, empathy, and validation with my clients. If you would like to experience that kind of trusting relationship for yourself, I encourage you to connect with me. I would be honored to help you take the next step in your healing journey!
Dr. Mark Jacobsen is a licensed clinical social worker in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. He has a B.A. in Psychology & Religion from St. Olaf College, a Master of Social Work from the Catholic University of America, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Social Work from the Smith College School for Social Work. He is a member of the Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapy & Psychoanalysis, where he is an active participant in both training and continuing education.