Marlene Dolinar

Through the natural language of play, sandtray, and expressive therapies, Marlene Dolinar, MA, LPCC, RPT, reaches children and adults alike at Mending Hearts Counseling Center. As the founder and owner, Marlene has turned her vision for compassionate mental health care into reality, opening the doors to her practice in July 2019.

Marlene's journey in counseling began in 2013, culminating in her becoming a Registered Play Therapist in August 2019. Her approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), emphasizing the impact of perception on life's difficulties and focusing on present-time solutions. This integrated method allows her to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including life transitions, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties.

With a Master of Arts degree in Counselor Education from the CACREP accredited program at the University of Toledo, Marlene brings a strong educational foundation to her practice. Her experience spans various settings, including internships at Behavioral Connections of Wood County, work in school-based counseling programs, and office-based therapy at Harbor Behavioral Health.

At Mending Hearts Counseling Center, Marlene is committed to providing a safe and inviting space for mental and behavioral health services. She strives to meet the emotional, social, and psychological needs of her clients, offering culturally competent services that honor each person's strengths and well-being. Whether working with children through play therapy or adults through traditional psychotherapy, Marlene's goal is to guide individuals and families through life's challenges with compassion and expertise.

As a long-time resident of Sylvania, Marlene is deeply invested in her community. When she's not helping clients, she enjoys camping, traveling, and spending time with her family. Her personal experiences and professional dedication combine to create a unique therapeutic approach that resonates with clients of all ages, helping them navigate their path to emotional wellness and personal growth.