Mara Montoya
I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel safe to show up as your authentic self. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood and supported, especially during life’s most challenging moments. My approach to therapy is humanistic and rooted in empathy, compassion, and genuine connection.
I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood and supported, especially during life’s most challenging moments.
I value meeting each person where they are, listening without judgment, and honoring each individual’s unique experiences and strength. I see therapy as a collaborative journey where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, gain a deeper understanding of yourself, and work toward meaningful growth. My goal is to ensure you feel supported, valued, and empowered throughout the process.
Strengths
I bring five years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and across a variety of life experiences. One of my strengths as a therapist is my ability to create a safe, supportive space where clients comfortable, expressing their emotions and showing up authentically. I believe in meeting clients where they are, offering compassion and understanding while also gently challenging them were needed to encourage growth and self discover. I draw from evidence based to purchase, including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, tailoring my approach to each individuals unique needs and goals. I have experience and working with individuals, navigating trauma, grief and loss, addiction, anxiety, and depression. I bring kindness, empathy, and genuine connection into every session. My goal is to walk alongside clients throughout their hearing journey, offering support, guidance, and encouragement as they build insight, develop healthy, coping skills, and work toward meaningful change.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is someone who may be navigating a difficult season of life, feeling overwhelmed by their emotions, or struggling to find balance and direction. They may be experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or challenges related to addiction. They might feel stuck in unhealthy patterns, be working through past experiences, or simply recognize that they need additional support. My ideal client is open to exploring their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. They may be seeking someone who will listen, validate their emotions, and meet them where they are while also gently challenging them to step outside their comfort zone when needed. They are interested in developing healthier coping skills, building self-awareness, gaining confidence, and creating meaningful changes in their lives. Above all, they want to feel heard, understood, and supported throughout their healing journey. They may not have all the answers or know exactly where to begin, but they are willing to show up, explore their experiences, and take steps toward becoming the healthiest version of themselves.
Treatment methods
Person-centered (Rogerian)
The person-centered (humanistic) approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that you are the expert on your own life and that you already have the ability to grow, heal, and create meaningful change. Rather than telling you what to do or directing your healing journey, I will work collaboratively with you to help you gain insight, recognize your strengths, and discover what feels right for you. I also believe growth can come from exploring uncomfortable emotions and gently challenging ourselves when we're ready. Ultimately, my goal is for you to feel heard, valued, and empowered as we work toward the changes you want to see in your life.
Location
Virtual sessions