Mara-Joanne Derinor
My name is Mara-Joanne Derinor. I am licensed in Florida, Kansas, and Arizona. My approach to mental healthcare is patient centered. My patients and their needs come first, second, and third. I provide evidence-based care for my patients. My focus areas of practice are anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, and psychotherapy. Mental health has always been a passion of mine. I’ve always known that I wanted to specialize in this field and be the difference I want to see in the world. In my free time, I love traveling, writing, reading, dancing, cooking, and spending time at the beach. I’m also fluent in Haitian Creole.
I’m deeply committed to challenging and changing the negative stigma surrounding mental health, especially within the Caribbean and Afro communities.
I’m deeply committed to challenging and changing the negative stigma surrounding mental health, especially within the Caribbean and Afro communities. My goal is to be a light and a positive influence for both my community and my patients.
First session
Goal setting with patients is always patient centered. I want all of my patient to always feel seen and heard. I do not make any decisions without the approval or acknowledgement of my patients. I provide thorough education when my patients and I are making clinical decisions. During our first session I will take the time to conduct a thorough assessment and learn all about you. The first session typically lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. I will ask about your psychiatric history, hospitalization history, medical history, family history, and social history just to name a few. The first session is tailored to learning all about the patient and their desires/needs. We will go over any diagnoses and create a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your interests, needs, and desires.
Strengths
As a provider, my greatest strengths lie in my caring and compassionate approach to each patient’s unique experience. I strive to create a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where you feel safe to share openly. I’m an active listener who takes the time to truly understand your needs, and I respond with honesty, empathy, and respect. My clinical knowledge and commitment to evidence-based care guide our work together, while my genuine belief in your capacity for growth ensures that you’re met with encouragement and understanding every step of the way.
Ideal clients
Diagnoses that I typically work with are anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, binge eating disorder, psychotic disorders, autism, and ADHD just to name a few. I work with children, adolescents, and adults.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In our sessions, I draw on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you recognize the links between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we’ll practice concrete skills—such as reframing unhelpful thought patterns, using relaxation or mindfulness techniques, and gradually facing avoided situations—so you can respond to challenges more flexibly. Because CBT is structured and goal-oriented, you’ll leave each visit with clear strategies to apply between appointments, making progress both in and out of the therapy room.
Compassion-Focused
In our work together, I use Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) to help you develop a kinder, more supportive relationship with yourself. This approach is especially helpful if you struggle with self-criticism, shame, or feeling unworthy. We focus on building emotional strength through self-compassion, calming the inner critic, and creating a sense of safety and acceptance within yourself.
Motivational Interviewing
In our sessions, I use Motivational Interviewing (MI) to support you in exploring and strengthening your own motivation for change. This approach respects your autonomy and helps you clarify your values, goals, and any ambivalence you may feel. Together, we create a collaborative and nonjudgmental space where you can build confidence and take steps toward the changes that matter most to you.
Psychoeducation
I incorporate psychoeducation into our sessions to help you better understand your mental health symptoms, diagnoses, and treatment options. By learning how the brain and body respond to stress, emotions, and trauma, you can make more informed decisions about your care. This knowledge empowers you to take an active role in your healing and apply strategies that support your growth and well-being.
Supportive
In our sessions, I use Supportive Therapy to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. This approach focuses on building trust, reinforcing your strengths, and helping you cope with current challenges. Through empathy, encouragement, and practical guidance, I aim to support your emotional resilience and overall well-being.
Location
Virtual sessions