Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 91 ratings

Maria Garcia

LPC/MHSP, 8 years of experience

Solution oriented
Direct
Warm
Virtual
Next available on

About me

Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with an MHSP designation, bringing 8 years of experience supporting teens, adults, and couples facing challenges related to grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and cultural issues. My approach involves helping clients identify obstacles to achieving their optimal selves, fostering a healthy mental health lifestyle. I work collaboratively with clients to understand and manage life difficulties, equipping them with the skills to thrive in various circumstances. My primary focus is on utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support clients on their journey towards growth and healing.

Get to know me

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

During the initial session, clients can anticipate me asking further questions based on their intake responses. I also dedicate time to discussing my therapeutic approach, ensuring it aligns with their expectations for optimal care and a positive therapy journey. Together, we establish SMART goals and address any inquiries or concerns they may have. It's paramount to me that clients feel both comfortable and safe throughout their therapeutic experience.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

One of my key strengths as a therapist is my commitment to allowing my clients to take the lead and maintain as much control as possible during sessions. I recognize that for many individuals, therapy may be a new experience, and I prioritize creating a positive and supportive environment for them. Moreover, I emphasize to my clients that I am there to accompany them on their journey, helping them identify patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that may be impeding their progress towards optimal mental health. Being bilingual in Spanish and English, I understand the importance of being able to communicate directly in one's native language. Lastly, as a therapist, I actively participate in various trainings to ensure that I can incorporate the latest techniques and approaches into my sessions with clients.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I work best with clients who are motivated, eager, and ready to engage fully in the therapeutic process. I stress the significance of honesty and transparency, as it allows clients to derive the greatest benefit from therapy. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of actively integrating the tools and skills learned in therapy into daily life for success. Many of my clients have recognized the importance of seeking mental health support and are committed to maintaining consistency in their therapy journey.

Specialties

Top specialties

Anxiety

Other specialties

Anger ManagementDepressionGriefPost PartumSelf EsteemTrauma and PTSD

I identify as

Serves ages

Teenagers (13 to 17)

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I utilize CBT by focusing on helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their problems. It's based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and by changing one aspect, we can influence the others.

Cognitive Processing (CPT)

I utilize CPT to empower clients to understand and process my clients traumatic experiences, challenge negative beliefs, and develop healthier coping strategies for managing PTSD symptoms.

Multicultural

multicultural therapy involves a commitment to understanding, respecting, and valuing the cultural diversity of clients, and integrating cultural considerations into all aspects of the therapeutic process. By doing so, I can create a more inclusive and effective therapeutic environment that honors the richness of each individual's cultural identity and experiences.

Couples Counseling

Couples therapy involves a collaborative and solution-focused approach to help couples navigate challenges, strengthen their relationship, and cultivate greater satisfaction and fulfillment in their partnership. As a therapist, I serves as a guide and facilitator, empowering couples to develop the skills and insights needed to create a healthier and more resilient relationship.

Location

Virtual

Licensed in

Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 91 ratings

3 ratings with written reviews

May 8, 2025

Thankful to have found a great therapist! Very empowering and helpful. I’ve learned so much about boundaries, personal relationships and to control anxiety.

Verified client, age 25-34

Review shared after session 18 with Maria

March 26, 2025

She is a very direct therapist. She likes to get to the root of the problem and then help you find a solution. She always gives me two goals for the week and if I don’t complete it she makes us discuss why it didn’t work. She really is about her work.

Verified client, age 25-34

Review shared after session 5 with Maria

February 25, 2025

It was great I felt really positive!

Verified client, age 18-24

Review shared after session 1 with Maria