Mariana Scutaru Pfost

(she/her)

LMFT, 9 years of experience
Authentic
Warm
Open-minded
VirtualAvailable

I believe that if every human being had someone to provide them with unconditional positive regard, especially during the formative years of childhood, our world would be a safer place. Unfortunately, many of us don’t even make it through childhood without wounds from emotionally painful experiences. Sometimes the consequences of these experiences are long-lasting and can impact our well-being, relationships, and work. Fortunately, therapy can help. I have worked in community and university settings for the past 9 years, and I have experience treating a variety of mental health struggles such as anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, trauma, marriage/family issues, and communication challenges.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin understanding what brings you to therapy. There is no pressure to share everything at once. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. We will start by talking about what is currently feeling most important or difficult in your life or relationship. This may include specific concerns, patterns you’ve noticed, or the reasons you decided to seek therapy at this time. I may also ask some questions about your history, relationships, and past experiences to better understand the context of what you are going through.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

I bring a warm, grounded, and collaborative presence to therapy, with a focus on helping clients feel emotionally safe enough to explore what is really going on beneath the surface. My approach is structured but flexible, meaning I stay attuned to your pace and needs while also helping us gently move toward the patterns and emotions that may feel stuck or overwhelming.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I work best with individuals who are feeling emotionally stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected and are looking for a deeper understanding of themselves, not just surface-level coping strategies. Many of my clients notice recurring patterns such as anxiety in relationships, strong self-criticism, difficulty expressing emotions, people-pleasing, or feeling caught in cycles of overthinking and emotional shutdown. Others come to therapy during periods of transition, uncertainty, or emotional pain when the ways they have been coping no longer feel effective.

Specialties

Top specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Other specialties

I identify as

Serves ages

Licensed in

Accepts

Location

Virtual

My treatment methods

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a well-established and evidence-based approach to couples therapy developed by Dr. Sue Johnson. It is influenced by attachment theory, which asserts that humans have an innate need for emotional connection and bonding with others. EFT aims to help couples understand and change negative patterns of interaction by fostering a secure emotional bond. I also use this model with individuals as I prioritize emotional exploration and expression.

Person-centered (Rogerian)

Rogerian therapy is characterized by certain key principles and techniques: Unconditional Positive Regard: The therapist creates a nonjudgmental and accepting environment for the client. This involves the therapist expressing empathy and understanding without imposing their own values or opinions on the client. Empathy: The therapist strives to understand the client's feelings and experiences from their perspective. Empathetic listening involves reflective responses, where the therapist paraphrases and summarizes the client's thoughts and feelings to demonstrate understanding. Congruence (Genuineness): The therapist aims to be authentic and genuine in their interactions with the client. This means being open and honest about their own thoughts and feelings within the therapeutic relationship. Client-Centered Focus: The focus of the therapy is on the client rather than the therapist. The client is seen as the expert on their own life, and the therapist's role is to facilitate self-exploration and personal growth. Non-Directive Approach: Rogerian therapy is non-directive, meaning that the therapist does not provide solutions or advice. Instead, the therapist encourages the client to explore their own thoughts and feelings and make their own decisions.

, 39 ratings

1 rating with written reviews

March 17, 2026

She always has a caring attitude and is a great listener, and helps to bring up options for me to continue to improve on my mental health journey when I bring up something that could be an issue. She is very knowledgeable and patient. She truly seems to want me to learn to help myself and become stronger by giving me the support and tools I need to succeed. She never seems to judge, just wants to help me become the best and healthiest version of myself.

Verified client, age 18-24
Review shared after session 60 with Mariana