Maritza Grau
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with over 36 years of experience. I earned my master’s degree from Barry University in Miami, Florida, and have devoted my career to supporting individuals facing mental health and life challenges.
I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish and have had the privilege of working in diverse settings across Florida, Puerto Rico and California.
I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, wellness and life transitions, helping people reach their fullest potential. Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, I’ve had the opportunity to work in diverse settings across Florida, Puerto Rico, and California. My background also includes university teaching, leading workshops and webinars, and consulting in various capacities.
First session
In our first session, we’ll start with quick introductions before diving into the specific challenges at hand. My goal is to create a comfortable and supportive space where clients feel open to sharing their stories. I focus on understanding their current struggles, goals, and hopes for therapy while building a foundation of trust. Together, we’ll identify their needs and begin crafting a personalized plan to guide their path toward growth and healing. En nuestra primera sesión, comenzaremos con una breve presentación antes de profundizar en los desafíos específicos que usted enfrenta. Mi objetivo es crear un espacio cómodo y de apoyo donde usted se sienta en confianza para compartir su historia. Me enfocaré en comprender sus dificultades actuales, sus metas y sus expectativas para la terapia, mientras establecemos una base sólida de confianza. Juntos identificaremos sus necesidades y comenzaremos a elaborar un plan personalizado que guíe su proceso de crecimiento y sanación.
Strengths
With over 36 years of experience as a therapist, I’ve worked in a variety of settings, blending creative approaches with evidence-based practices to help clients meaningfully explore their emotions and experiences. Above all, I’m dedicated to fostering growth, resilience, and transformation in the people I work with.
Ideal clients
I enjoy working with people who are ready to tackle their challenges and embrace change. Life is only once, and through psychotherapy, individuals can grow into the best version of themselves. Those motivated to break free from unhelpful patterns and willing to put in the effort are the perfect fit for Evidence-Based Psychotherapy. It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness their growth and transformation along the therapeutic journey. Disfruto trabajar con personas que están listas para enfrentar sus desafíos y abrazar cambios. Solo se vive una vez y a través de la psicoterapia, las personas pueden crecer y convertirse en la mejor versión de sí mismas. Quienes están motivados para liberarse de patrones poco útiles y dispuestos a esforzarse son el complemento perfecto para las Psicoterapias Basadas en Evidencia. Es profundamente gratificante ser testigo de su crecimiento y transformación a lo largo del proceso terapéutico.
Origin story
I was inspired to become a therapist because I’ve always been drawn to understanding people’s stories, especially during moments when life feels overwhelming or uncertain. I’ve seen how transformative it can be when someone finally has a safe, non‑judgmental space to explore their emotions and experiences. At the same time, I’m deeply motivated by how effective therapy can be when it’s grounded in evidence and delivered with compassion. Becoming a therapist allows me to combine genuine human connection with clinical tools that help people break unhelpful patterns, build healthier coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change. That blend of empathy and science is what continues to inspire me in this work.
Ongoing work together
Our ongoing work together will be structured, supportive, and focused on helping you grow into the strongest version of yourself. We’ll continue exploring your challenges, identifying patterns, and applying evidence‑based tools like CBT, CPT, and Emotional Supportive Therapy Present Centered. As you progress, you’ll notice more clarity, confidence, and resilience. We’ll check in regularly, adjust your goals as needed, and make sure each session moves you closer to meaningful change. Nuestro trabajo continuo será un proceso estructurado y colaborativo. En cada sesión revisaremos sus objetivos, exploraremos los desafíos que este enfrentando y aplicaremos intervenciones basadas en evidencia, como la terapia cognitivo‑conductual (CBT), la terapia de procesamiento cognitivo (CPT) y la terapia de Respaldo Emocional Centrada en el Presente. Evaluaremos su progreso de manera periódica y ajustaremos el plan de tratamiento según sus necesidades, asegurándonos de que cada encuentro contribuya a fortalecer su claridad, estabilidad emocional y bienestar general.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
CPT Trainer, Consultant and Provider since 2007. This is an evidence-based psychotherapy for the treatment of PTSD.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
36 + years of experience. This form of therapy can be used with mood disorders (depression, anxiety, PTSD).
Prolonged Exposure Therapy
Provider since 2008. This is an evidence-based psychotherapy for the treatment of PTSD.
Supportive
Supportive Therapy combined with Present Centered Therapy focuses on strengths, helping individuals cope with stressors, boost self-esteem, and maintain emotional well-being. These treatment approaches are customized to meet each person’s unique needs, meeting them exactly where they are.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 117520