About Martin
Martin LaPlaca is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) practicing in California. He has seven years of experience helping people who feel overwhelmed by stress or anxious thoughts. He also supports people coping with addictions, relationship struggles, trauma and abuse, and depression.
In sessions he focuses on creating an open, nonjudgmental space where thoughts and feelings can be shared. Conversations are straightforward and practical, aimed at making daily life a bit easier.
Background and approach
He encourages small steps and realistic goals so progress feels achievable. Martin draws on evidence-based techniques to help people manage emotions and reduce worry. He listens for patterns that keep problems stuck and offers strategies to change those patterns.
Work often includes skill practice between sessions so people can try new ways of coping in real situations. He describes the first therapy step as one of courage and aims to make the next steps clear and manageable. Sessions tend to balance emotional understanding with concrete tools for handling stress and cravings.
The pace is adapted to each person’s needs and comfort. Martin offers sessions in English and sees people located in California. He provides video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to fit different schedules and communication preferences.
Evidence-based approaches and online care
Martin uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on practical skills and understanding patterns. One approach emphasizes managing anxious thoughts and bodily reactions with step-by-step exercises to reduce distress and improve daily functioning. Another approach teaches coping strategies for cravings and addictive behaviors, offering tools to interrupt urges and build alternative routines.Choosing the right approach is part of the work. Martin collaborates with each person to decide which techniques fit their goals and comfort level. Together they try methods, monitor what helps, and adjust the plan as needed so therapy stays relevant and useful.
Online sessions include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to make therapy flexible. Video is useful for longer conversations and visual connection, while phone calls can be easier when bandwidth is limited. Live chat and text messages work well for brief check-ins, skill practice, or when someone prefers typed communication. These options help people fit therapy into busy lives and different routines.
Questions people ask
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What this therapist works with
Most often
- Stress, Anxiety
- Addictions
- Relationship issues
Also listed
- Experience
- 7 years
- Licensed
- California
- Languages
- English
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