Sharla Marek, PhD
Dr. Sharla Marek is a counseling psychologist who specializes in work with children, adolescents, and adults. After completing a Master’s in counseling (1985), Dr. Marek worked in a variety of settings including an adolescent crisis shelter, a residential treatment facility for children and adolescents, and the Department of Social Services as a member of the Sexual Abuse Recovery Team. Dr. Marek completed her PhD in Counseling Psychology in 2002 from the University of Houston. Dr. Marek completed training at the Texas Children’s Hospital in the Learning Support Center, Baylor College of Medicine with the Family Counseling Clinic and Star of Hope Transition Living Center, and the Children’s Assessment Center. Her internship with the Houston Independent School District in the Psychological Services department solidified Dr. Marek’s desire to specialize in working with children and adolescents, as well as their families.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (including Play Therapy), Interpersonal Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are primary approaches used by Dr. Marek in her treatment to address a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, disruptive mood dysregulation, adjustment disorders, traumatic stress, ADHD, oppositional defiance and developmental delays. Dr. Marek is also experienced in psychological, psycho-educational and functional behavior assessments. Dr. Marek understands that therapy can be difficult, with the first step being the hardest. Establishing a relationship with her young clients is usually done so quickly and easily. Dr. Marek is an advocate for her young clients and their families. She wants you to know there is nothing to fear in coming to see her. “Together, we will work to increase your child’s mental health and overall well-being.”