Working with Maria
What is therapy like? It's a common question. Therapy with me likely won't be like therapists you've worked with in the past; or if you've never been to therapy, it definitely won't be like what you've see on TV. I'm imperfect. I don't know everything. I won't be dressed in button down shirts and suit jackets.
What you can expect is a genuine, down to earth, open-minded approach in working with you. I consider all facets of a person's life, such as their world view, work-life, family traditions, cultural beliefs, spirituality, & sexual identity. I'll work with you to help make therapy comfortable & encouraging for you, instilling hope in your life every session. You can expect to feel empowered when working with me!!
My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive environment via telehealth video or phone sessions, where you can explore your emotional needs & overcome barriers that keep you from being the person you wish you were.
Be ready to commit to your progress! Although I'll be here to support you, guide you, & encourage you in a non-judgmental way during every step of your journey; I will never work harder than you do. You are the true catalyst for change in your own life.
We're not able to make promises in therapy, but I can assure you that the benefit you receive from therapy will match the amount of time, effort, & energy you put into the process. If you're seeking a therapist to make miracles happen *for* you, instead of *with* you, your expectations of therapy might be unrealistic.
One of my main goals as a therapist is to help break the stigma of who can possibly benefit from counseling. I sometimes hear people say they thought therapy was only for "crazy" people.
People seek therapy for many reasons: stress, relationship problems, career issues, grief, parenting guidance, substance abuse / dependence, as well as mental health concerns such as various levels of anxiety & depression. It's my belief that everyone can benefit from some counseling!
Examples of some of the problem areas I have helped people with include:
- Co-dependency issues
- Mild to moderate depression /sadness
- Feelings of emptiness and lack of passion in life
- Anxiety and worry
- Stress and feeling overwhelmed
- Anger and violence problems
- Communication Issues
- Trust issues
- Arguments
- Gender identity concerns
- Loneliness
- Emotional intimacy
- Low self-esteem and self-confidence issues
- Divorce transition problems
- Multi-cultural issues
- Adjustment and transition problems
- Work or career concerns
- Identifying, setting, and accomplishing goals
- Identifying passion, purpose, and direction in life
- Spirituality issues
- Problems with unhealthy eating
- Body image concerns