Licensed to practice in California and accepts 31 insurances. Specializes in Anxiety, Couples Counseling, Self Esteem and 6 more.
I am a dedicated and experienced mental health professional committed to providing personalized support for individuals and couples. Specializing in anxiety, depression, and relationship dynamics, I offer a safe and collaborative space where clients can explore their concerns, set achievable goals, and work toward positive change. My approach is rooted in empathy, effective communication, and evidence-based practices to help clients navigate life's challenges and foster holistic well-being.
Introduction and Relationship Building: We'll begin by introducing ourselves and establishing a comfortable and confidential environment. Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is fundamental to our work. Discussion of Goals and Expectations: I will invite you to share your goals, concerns, and expectations for therapy. This helps me understand your unique needs and sets the stage for tailoring our approach. Assessment and Background Information: We'll explore relevant background information, including personal history, current challenges, and any factors contributing to your goals or difficulties. Therapeutic Approach Explanation: I'll explain my therapeutic approach and discuss how we can work together to address your concerns. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions and ensure our approach aligns with your preferences. Initial Exploration of Concerns: We'll delve into the specific issues or challenges you're facing. This exploration helps us gain a deeper understanding of the root causes and dynamics at play. Establishing a Treatment Plan: Based on our discussion, we'll collaboratively outline a tentative treatment plan. This may include setting short-term and long-term goals to guide our work together. Addressing Questions and Concerns: I encourage open communication. This is the time for you to ask any questions or express concerns about the therapeutic process, ensuring you feel informed and comfortable moving forward. Mutual Agreement on Next Steps: We will mutually agree on the next steps, including the frequency of sessions and any additional resources or homework that may enhance the therapeutic process. The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and lay the groundwork for a positive and productive therapeutic relationship. It is a collaborative process, and your active involvement is essential to shaping the direction of our work together.
Empathy and Compassion: My ability to genuinely understand and empathize with clients fosters a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. Effective Communication Skills: I am skilled in active listening and straightforward articulation, ensuring that communication is vital to my client interactions. Clinical Expertise: With specialized training and a solid foundation of knowledge, I bring expertise to address various concerns within my field. Client-Centered Approach: I am committed to tailoring my services to meet each client's unique needs and goals, ensuring a personalized and meaningful therapeutic experience. Problem-Solving Skills: My capacity to help clients navigate challenges and develop effective coping strategies contributes to positive outcomes in the therapeutic process. Cultural Competence: I prioritize cultural competence, adapting my approach to be sensitive and inclusive, valuing and respecting the diversity of each individual. Collaborative Approach: I firmly believe in collaborative decision-making, involving clients in the therapeutic process and jointly setting and working towards achievable goals. Resilience and Adaptability: My ability to adapt therapeutic approaches based on individual client needs showcases resilience, allowing me to navigate various situations effectively. Continual Professional Development: I am committed to ongoing professional development, attending workshops, staying abreast of the latest research, and continuously refining my skills. Ethical Practice: I adhere to strict ethical guidelines, prioritizing confidentiality, respect, and integrity in all my therapeutic relationships. These strengths, combined with specific examples from my experiences, contribute to the quality and effectiveness of my therapeutic practice.
I specialize in providing comprehensive support for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each client. My expertise extends to couples counseling, where I am adept at navigating the complexities of relationships and fostering positive communication and understanding. Whether working with individuals facing mental health challenges or couples needing guidance, my professional background equips me to address your concerns with skill and effectiveness.
Other specialties
I identify as
Cash - $125 per session
Aetna
Aetna - Allied Benefits
Aetna - ASR Health Benefits
Aetna - Luminare
Aetna - Moda
Aetna - WebTPA
Aetna – HealthEZ
Amerihealth Administrators
Anthem
Arlo
Blue Cross
Blue Shield
Carelon Behavioral Health (Commercial)
Centivo
Cigna
Cigna - HealthEZ
EAP:Cigna
EAP:Evernorth
EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum
Evernorth
GTEB
Health Net (Commercial)
IHSS Healthy Workers
Independence Administrators
Independence Blue Cross
L.A. Care Covered
L.A. Care Covered Direct
L.A. Care PASC-SEIU
Sutter Health Plan
Tufts Health/Cigna
Couples Counseling
Drawing from attachment theory, this approach explores how early attachment experiences influence adult relationships. It focuses on creating a secure emotional bond between partners.
Attachment-based
Attachment theory has been extended to understand adult relationships. The attachment styles developed in childhood can influence how individuals form and maintain relationships in adulthood.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT may integrate mindfulness and relaxation exercises to help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings in the present moment. This can be particularly useful for managing stress and anxiety.
12 ratings with written reviews
June 22, 2026
In our first session with Maria we found her to be authentic and an active listener. Right away she appears to have an approach and direction for therapy and for our relationship. We are looking forward to future sessions and feel a real sense of hope.
June 15, 2026
It was Maria and I's first time meeting and I thought she did a great job listening and taking a moment to really understand me. I would like to continue working with her.
June 6, 2026
We've had two appointments with Maria and she's sincerely helpful. She is warm and understanding. She is easy to open up to and actively cares. Maria is a great therapist and we feel very blessed to have her guidance.