I am a bilingual LCSW with over 10 years of experience working in the human services field; focusing on mental health, behavior, and non-profit work. I grew up in Los Angeles, Ca., completed my Master of Social Work at Fordham University in the Bronx, NY., and currently reside in Ocala, Fl. As an LCSW I treat clients from across the lifespan with varying therapeutic needs by applying an integrative approach to treatment. Some of my areas of experience include treating family systems and individuals navigating intergenerational trauma, parents and children dealing with challenging behavior, neurodivergent populations, and individuals with a desire to better understand themselves and the maladaptive behaviors causing distress, mood issues, and anxiety. Areas of specialty include working with young adults navigating life after high school, parenting individuals/partners, and those who identify as Latina women struggling to balance relationships, family, individual needs, and independence. I believe that everyone and their experiences are unique, this is why I meet clients where they are in their life journey, empowering them to find and enhance solutions and coping skills that meet their needs. Although I am trained in CBT and DBT these interventions are only a part of my integrative approach to treatment. Client-centered care remains at the center of treatment; as there is not one single intervention that is best for all. Your treatment is yours, together we will create a treatment plan that empowers you.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

During our first session I focus on getting to know you and your needs. You can expect me to ask about symptoms you are experiencing and what you would like to be different in your daily experiences. This is also an opportunity to collaborate and get to know one another, questions about treatment and our work together are encouraged.

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

I apply a trauma-informed and integrative approach as this allows for client autonomy and client-centered care. I am trained in CBT, DBT, and Parent-Child Psychotherapy. I also use play therapy, motivational interviewing, and various other interventions. Clients benefit from my eclectic and integrative approach as this supports client autonomy and individualized care. I am dedicated to the ongoing pursuit of knowledge and consider myself a lifelong learner. Consistently expanding on my existing knowledge allows me to grow with the evolving mental health field and client needs.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

An area of strength for me is my work with those who identify as Latina women who are struggling to create a life-work-career balance. As a first-generation Mexican, I understand the toll that acculturation takes on us and our relationships. Latin women stressors are unique and can cause significant distress for Latinas as the varying generations that make up our Latin community can interpret our strengths in a variety of ways. Latinas with this experience present to therapy because they are overwhelmed with these stressors making them feel as if they are not doing enough or that they don't belong. In sessions, we give these emotions, stressors, and anxiety meaning. Providing clients with clarity and coping skills to better manage; creating opportunities for the balance they deserve.

About Maria Cevallos