Dr. Mark Schwarze

12/05/2025

Check out this month's Mental Health Matters. Set those boundaries folks!

December is marketed as a season of joy, generosity, and togetherness, but for many people, it also becomes the most overcommitted and emotionally draining month of the year. Holiday events

11/18/2025

Proud to get this new publication out with some excellent colleagues.

11/05/2025

As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I’ve seen firsthand how our perspective can dramatically influence our mental health. One of the most powerful tools we can cultivate, particularly during turbulent times, is gratitude.

Reich College of Education at Appalachian State University

Thanksgiving is around the corner and the one thing I wish I was better at doing on a daily basis is stopping, gaining perspective, and positioning my worldview in a

10/08/2025

Conversion therapy is a harmful practice. The research is clear on this.

In light of recent oral arguments at the Supreme Court in the Chiles v. Salazar case, ACA reaffirms that conversion therapy is a harmful practice. We also reaffirm our commitment to supporting policies that protect clients, uphold professional standards and advance the integrity of the counseling profession. As part of a coalition of mental health organizations, we have signed on to a friend of the court brief reiterating:

• Conversion therapy is a dangerous and discredited practice
• Psychotherapy is more than simply ‘talking’ — it is a medical treatment and therefore can be regulated by states
• Conversion therapy can fuel stigma and discrimination toward the LGBTQ+ community

Learn more about our efforts: https://bit.ly/3JYgo3G

10/07/2025

COLUMN: Make no mistake, addiction is a neurological brain disorder. When the subject of addiction comes up, people often lean on familiar explanations. “They just need more willpower.” “Why can’t they stop making bad choices?”

Make no mistake, addiction is a neurological brain disorder. When the subject of addiction comes up, people often lean on familiar explanations. “They just need more willpower.” “Why can’t they

09/22/2025

The etiology of autism is primarily rooted in genetics. Large scale credible studies have found no connection to acetaminophen. Trust science.

09/04/2025

Leave toxic people and situations behind.

Maria Branyas Morera, who became the world’s oldest living person at 117, was once asked her secret to a long life. Her answer was to avoid toxic people. At first

08/05/2025

My new column is out! Is work making you sick?

Have you ever had the “Sunday Scaries?” That is the dreaded feeling of having to return to work after a weekend or time off. Usually this is indicative of at

07/10/2025

Grief and loss are complicated.

When I think back on the losses I have experienced in my life, I always find it interesting to reflect on how different my emotional reactions were in those situations.

06/23/2025

We need more discussion in this area.

This past Father’s Day, some families across the country fired up the grill, bought gifts, and thanked the men in their lives for the love and support they give year-round.

06/02/2025

🌈 Happy Pride Month! 🏳️‍🌈

June is a time to celebrate love, identity, courage, and community. We honor the history, resilience, and ongoing fight for equality led by LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies around the world.

Pride is more than a celebration, it’s a powerful reminder that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued for who they are.

Let’s learn from one another, and continue to build a world where authenticity is embraced and diversity is celebrated.

+ 🏳️‍🌈✨

05/12/2025

Congratulations to the 2025 App State Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program cohort on a successful hooding! This group has worked hard to get to the finish line under incredibly challenging circumstances. Great job!



Reich College of Education at Appalachian State University