My Approach to Helping
My name is Mark Odland, and I specialize in providing online therapy to high-achieving men like top executives, elite athletes, hard-working professionals ready to invest in a breakthrough, and men seeking Christian Counseling. In my 15+ years as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist, and ordained pastor I’ve had the privilege to train over 1,000 therapists, help over 1,000 clients, and provide over 15,000 therapy sessions. When not doing therapy or training other EMDR therapists around the world, I’m practicing jiu jitsu, surfing, writing books, and enjoying life on the beach with my wife and 4 kids.
More Info About My Practice
The high achieving men that find me often seek me out because I specialize in both EMDR and Christian Counseling. As an EMDR therapist I can be very tactical, functioning like an emotional surgeon. I help men identify the targets that need attention, and then use this research-proven therapy approach to unleash the brain’s natural ability heal and overcome.
Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With
I am a world-respected EMDR therapist, and have helped hundreds of men work through issues like addiction, anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, trauma, and improved performance at work and at home. Men often seek me out for deeper healing when talk therapy and coaching haven?t worked. Many also seek me out for my perspective as an experienced Christian Counselor.
My Guiding Ethical Principles
As a therapist I am professionally bound by the ethical codes of my licensing boards. Personally, I am bound by my desire to honor God and use my gifts and talents to help men heal and become the lions they were created to be.
On the Fence About Going to Therapy?
If you are on the fence about starting therapy, no problem. Not everyone is ready to take the step. I only want to work with men who have decided to take this step and who are willing to put in the work. Men who can, in the words of navy seal Jocko Willink, look at the challenge before them and say... good, bring it on.
Had a Negative Therapy Experience?
Honestly, there are a lot of mediocre therapists out there. I say this knowing full-well that I am not perfect and that I am constantly learning. Most therapists are compassionate and genuinely want to help, but many simply do not have the skills, experience, or theoretical foundation to provide you with what you need. If you have had a negative experience in therapy, my hope and prayer for you is that you do not give up on therapy, but instead continue to search until you find a therapist that is the right fit for you.
How My Own Struggles Made Me a Better Therapist
As an athlete and business owner, I understand the benefit of discipline, the joy in competition, and the thrill of victory. But I also know that stress, strained relationships, and emotional challenges that can make these successes feel hollow. In my life I've had many ups and downs, including the tragic death of my father in 2022. But through receiving my own EMDR therapy, the grace of God, and the love of family, I know that I am now stronger and healthier than I was before. When I work with high-achieving men, I know full-well that underneath their successes are hurts, wounds, and insecurities. In my confidential, online counseling sessions, I provide a supportive atmosphere where men know that they are respected, but also know they can take off the armor and be real.
Why Going to Therapy Does Not Mean You are Weak or Flawed
If there's a tumor in your body, it's not weakness to get it cut out. As an EMDR therapist, I see counseling the same way. I'm like an emotional surgeon, trained to confidently help you cut out the insecurities, difficult memories, and emotional barriers that hold you back. As men, we can often endure long hours, mental challenges, and physical pain. However, not every man has the courage to endure emotional pain. The result is predictable... issues like stress, addiction, numbness, anger, and strained relationships are inevitable. When men come to therapy it an act of courage... a willingness to stare into the abyss, do the work, and come out on the other side a stronger man.
Importance of the Client-Therapist Alliance
Research shows that the client-therapist alliance is the greatest predictor of progress. And specifically, this alliance is based on the trust we build, and the shared understanding we have of your treatment goals. In our sessions I will often check in with you about what is working in therapy and what could be better. I strive to approach my sessions with quiet confidence, compassion, and a spirit of curiosity. This helps me to approach therapy without judgment, and I enjoy the challenge of solving the puzzle of how to get you from where you are to where you want to be.
My View on the Nature of 'Disorders'
I won't diagnose you, and this is why I don't work with insurance. As a high-achieving man in your position, you need and deserve counseling that is completely confidential, and I have set up my practice to minimize interaction with third parties. Because I won't diagnose you, we are free to simply work on the issues that are important to you.
The Duration and Frequency of Therapy
I do not provide quick fixes. If you would like to work with me, I recommend committing to at least 10-12 sessions to make progress on your goals. While each client is different, most men meet with me for 3-6 months, and we measure progress objectively using clear and measurable treatment goals. No, I will not try to keep you in therapy for years on end. That being said, after completing therapy, you always have the option of rescheduling as needed, knowing that I am here for ongoing support.
