Marla Carman, LMHC, LPC

Marla Carman uses a pragmatic therapy style that centers on acceptance, present-moment work, and clear problem-solving. She blends Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, client-centered listening, and cognitive behavioral strategies to help people handle stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. Marla has 21 years of experience and holds the LMHC and LPC credentials. She practices in Arizona and works in English.

Her sessions focus on practical steps people can use right away. She helps people notice what matters to them, build helpful habits, and reduce unhelpful thinking. When trauma is part of the story, she may use EMDR alongside mindfulness and present-focused methods to address painful memories and reactions.

Marla also supports people facing grief, addiction, sleep and eating struggles, parenting stress, and caregiver burnout. She pays attention to intimacy-related concerns, body image, and issues tied to family of origin. First responder stress, fertility and end-of-life concerns are also within her focus areas.

Her approach is collaborative and straightforward. She listens without judgment, helps people set small goals, and works toward changes that fit day-to-day life. Sessions include talking, skill practice, and brief exercises designed for use between appointments.

To begin, people use the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability. Costs vary by location and use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

How her approaches fit into online therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on clarifying personal values and taking small, meaningful actions even when difficult thoughts or feelings are present; it can help with anxiety, stress, and life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact and teaches practical strategies to shift unhelpful patterns, which is useful for depression, anxiety, and sleep or eating concerns. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a trauma-focused approach that works with distressing memories and the reactions they cause, and it may be used when trauma or abuse is part of the problem.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with each person to decide which methods suit their goals and comfort level. Sessions often mix approaches and adjust as progress and needs become clearer.

Confirm current session options before booking so you know what formats are offered. Online therapy can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy life, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when schedules are tight. It also lets people continue work when life changes make in-person visits harder. Licensed professionals can help tailor session length and focus so therapy fits daily routines and specific goals.