Whether you are struggling with interpersonal conflict, intimate relationship issues, difficulty coping without drugs or alcohol, depression, anxiety, or are just feeling "stuck," seeking a therapeutic relationship that fits well with you is often the first step towards feeling more self-empowered.
Zak's
Therapy Specialties
Relationship distress, family of origin concerns, parenting difficulties, depression and sadness, anxiety and stress, cultural identity, sexuality and sexual identity, ADD/ADHD, substance misuse
From our first session, I strive to develop a real connection with you.
This is where you can let down your guard and express yourself in an open, judgement-free environment. Often your true thoughts, emotions and needs get clouded or pushed aside by the needs, expectations and perceptions of the people in your life. Having this open environment to explore and identify these essential aspects of you is vital to our work together
I take our work seriously but I also recognize that relief and even new understanding can be found with humor. Tapping into your humor can be a source of strength and insight and can help make sense of confusing or difficult emotions.
I also listen intently and help you recognize your strengths as well as patterns in your relationships and approaches to life that may holding you back from where you want to be in your life. Together, we can connect the dots of your life to see the full picture of who you are and who you want to be.
Previous to becoming a counselor, I enjoyed a career as a professional musician and was on the faculty in Towson University’s Department of Dance. I made a midlife career change to counseling at the same time I became a father so I understand first-hand the challenges of juggling the demands of work and family. Since transitioning in my career I found therapy to be the perfect vehicle for personal growth and self-empowerment that, like the arts, combines structure with improvisation, and creativity with tangible ideas. Because of this background, I have derived immense satisfaction from working with artists and creative people.
When I work with couples in therapy, I appreciate the importance of using methods that have scientific support. I have received post-graduate training in the Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) approach to couples counseling. Additionally, I am a Level 2 Couples Counselor through the Gottman Institute.
Clients describe Zak as a warm, genuine, and pragmatic therapist who values the role of humor in his work.
Educational Background
B.A., St. Mary's College of Maryland (Sociology/Anthropology)
M.S., Loyola University Maryland (Counseling Pyschology)
Other Practitioners
David I. Essien, PsyD
LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST in Baltimore, MD
David works with individuals who are struggling with a variety of issues. Whether anxiety, men’s issues, trauma, addiction, relationship difficulties, or other hardships in life, he assists clients in coping with, rising above, and overcoming distressing circumstances. With David, clients experience an open environment where they can express themselves authentically.
Emily Burton, M.S.W.
LICENSED Social worker IN Baltimore, mD
Emily works with individuals to help increase self-awareness, and deepen understanding of themselves. She is passionate about working with couples to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and foster intimacy. Emily works hard to create a non judgmental and stigma-free space where her clients can freely express themselves and feel empowered.