Maricela DuPriest is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in the state of Texas who works with individuals across the lifespan from children to older adults. Maricela's 33 year career as a LCSW has focused on ensuring that her clients see real progress or understand that they will learn to manage their challenges. Treatment is interactive, non-judgmental, and she recognizes that many of her clients experience emotional pain which interferes with their level of functioning therefore, she positions clients as the experts on where they are now and where they want to go. She is sensitive to the influence of past experiences on present challenges, and works closely with clients to reframe the narrative of their life in a way that increases self-confidence and compassion.
Maricela's first priority in starting with a new client is ensuring that they feel safe, heard, and like an equal partner in the therapeutic process. Clients are asked to be honest about their emotions, behaviors and goals, since this will set the foundation for success in establishing a healthy client-therapist relationship. As a seasoned provider, Maricela offers the convenience of remote sessions to help make therapy a core component of her clients personal self-care.
My greatest strengths as a therapist include interpersonal skills, communication and the ability to build relationships. I believe in being open-minded about the treatment process so clients understand that the outcome will be guided by them. It's important to understand that each individual will think and act differently in any given situation and understanding their point of view is essential in the treatment process. Each client is held in unconditional regard, and being respectful of each clients process is important. I practice humility and recognize that there is always room for growth throughout our journey in life.
Through collaboration between therapist and client, we will aim to challenge distorted thinking and develop healthier coping strategies. We will focus more on the present and modify unhelpful thought patterns, thereby alleviating symptoms of various mental health conditions , such as depression, anxiety, low self esteem and irrational fears.
Each client is unique, therefore therapy will be much more individualized than single school therapies. Treatment will focus on the most relevant technique from various evidence-based therapy modalities. This form of psychotherapy adapts to the unique needs of each client, depending on the problem, the treatment goals, and the clients expectations and motivation.
The pain felt through loss of a loved one or a deeply personal and affecting event can be very overwhelming. Grief can become too difficult to manage and may affect your ability to function, therefore grief therapy can provide you with a safe space to explore your feelings and memories without judgement. No loss is too big or too small to warrant support. You do not have to endure your grief alone.
Mind-body focuses on the interactions among the brain, body, mind and behavior with the intent of using the mind to alter physical function and promote overall healing. This approach encompasses a multidisciplinary approach and aimed at reducing anxiety, mood disturbance, pain and improving your quality of life. Treatment will encourage the following: meditation, guided imagery, mindfulness-based stress reduction, muscle relaxation, visual imagery, diaphragmatic breathing exercises, art therapy, music therapy, journaling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, aromatherapy and support groups.
Treatment will focus on being resourceful and searching within self to identify the internal strengths rather than on weaknesses and shortcomings. The client maintains a positive mindset and learns to build on qualities to improve resilience to face challenges. Solutions will be discovered by the client with the guided support of the therapist. Clients wanting to improve their self esteem, manage depression, anxiety, stress and trauma will be encouraged to participate in this treatment approach.