Mary Downer , LISW

Mary Downer is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) practicing in Ohio with 17 years of experience supporting children, teens, and parents through a range of life challenges. She has worked with individuals facing stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger, depression, Autism, and ADHD, among other concerns. Mary approaches each person as the expert of their own story and seeks to build on existing strengths to address obstacles and restore balance.

Recognizing that reaching out for help can feel overwhelming, she emphasizes a compassionate and open-minded style that invites honest exploration without judgment. Mary provides practical, skills-based support while honoring each client’s unique goals and pace. Her aim is to help clients move toward clearer understanding and greater functioning so they can pursue a more hopeful future. As an Ohio-licensed social worker, she combines clinical knowledge with a respectful, collaborative stance to guide families and individuals through change.

Evidence-Informed Approaches and Online Care

Mary uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns and learn practical skills to challenge and change them. CBT is often helpful for stress, anxiety, mood concerns, and problems that respond to skills practice and structured strategies.

She also incorporates Trauma-Focused Therapy to address the effects of traumatic events and help individuals process painful memories while building coping skills for daily life. This approach is intended for those dealing with trauma-related symptoms and seeking recovery from past harms.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. Mary collaborates with each person to determine which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress is made. Licensed professionals and therapists work together with clients to tailor care rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can occur via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to fit varying schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to access consistent support from home, work, or other locations while maintaining the therapeutic relationship and momentum toward goals.