Licensed to practice in Illinois and accepts 9 insurances. Specializes in Anxiety, Peer Relationships, Trauma and PTSD
(she/her)
New to Grow
Hello, Welcome and thank you for being here! My name is Maritza and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Starting therapy is a meaningful step and can bring up a lot at once; relief, uncertainty, hope, or even fear. All of these feelings are valid. I strive to create a warm and supportive space where you can slow things down and explore what’s been feeling heavy. Many of the people I work with are navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, or the impact of past experiences. This can show up as overthinking, worry, self-doubt, or feeling emotionally drained from trying to manage it all on your own. In our work together, we'll focus on understanding what’s getting in the way, build practical coping tools, and strengthen your ability to respond to life in ways that feel more grounded and intentional. Therapy is also a space for growth, reflection, and reconnecting with yourself in a deeper way. If you're looking for support in that process, I'm here when you're ready.
During our first session, we'll discuss what brings you to therapy, explore your current concerns, and talk about your goals for treatment. I'll also ask questions about different aspects of your life to better understand your experiences, relationships, and personal history. This helps us begin connecting the dots between past and present experiences while identifying strengths and areas where you'd like support.
My experiences have taught me that life can be both challenging and deeply meaningful, and that healing looks different for everyone. I bring warmth, authenticity, and cultural humility to my work, creating a space where clients feel safe to explore their struggles and strengths. I believe therapy works best when clients feel genuinely understood, supported, and empowered to create change that aligns with their values and goals.
Adults who often feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, and the many demands of daily life. They may find themselves overthinking, worrying about the future, second-guessing themselves, or struggling to quiet their minds at the end of the day. Many are navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, work-related stress, or the lingering impact of difficult past experiences while trying to show up for everyone around them.
I identify as
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I use ACT to help clients navigate difficult emotions, unhelpful thinking patterns, and life challenges with greater flexibility and self-compassion. Together, we identify priority values and develop practical strategies that support meaningful, value-driven actions.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT helps clients notice how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. I support clients in identifying worry thoughts, developing more balanced perspectives, and building practical coping skills to manage anxiety, stress, and life challenges.
Motivational Interviewing
I use Motivational Interviewing to help clients explore ambivalence around change and strengthen their own internal motivation. Through a collaborative and client-centered approach, I support clients in identifying values, setting meaningful goals, and building readiness for change.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
A person-centered approach allows clients to feel safe, heard, and valued without judgment. I provide an empathetic and supportive space where clients can explore their experiences and move toward healing and growth at their own pace.
Compassion Focused
Compassion-Focused Therapy helps clients learn to treat themselves with the same kindness and understanding they would with a loved one. I use this approach to support emotional healing, build self-acceptance, and reduce self-judgment.