ABOUT ME • LCSW • NY & NJ

Welcome.
I'm Maria.

A licensed clinical social worker serving New York and New Jersey, born and raised in Manhattan.

My Story

My journey started with a healthy dose of West Side Manhattan grit and a firm belief in the power of “I can.” Growing up in a single-parent home with its fair share of hurdles wasn't always a walk in Central Park, but it taught me that with the right support and a bit of perseverance, anyone can thrive.

Now, I'm on a mission to be a piece of that support for you.

I've been dedicated to supporting children and families for over three decades—a journey that technically started at the ripe old age of fifteen (yes, really!). Since then, I've worked in child welfare, a nonprofit family shelter, a law firm as a forensic social worker, and a community health clinic serving children, teens, adults, and older adults.

My academic path took me through John Jay College, where I earned both my bachelor's and master's degrees in Forensic Psychology... all while ushering on Broadway! But when I began my Master of Social Work program at Fordham University in 2011 I truly felt I had found my calling—and had finally come home.

Since then, I've even added published author to the list, contributing a chapter to Latinx/e in Social Work and appearing on their podcast. Through it all, my focus has remained the same: working with integrity, honoring your dignity and worth, and helping you feel empowered by the time our work together comes to an end.

How I Work

Let’s be real: starting therapy can feel a bit like a first date, but with more feelings and fewer appetizers! When I dove into individual psychotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic, I realized that true connection doesn’t need a fancy office—it just needs two people ready to do the work. My approach is professional and strictly evidence-based (no magic wands here, unfortunately), but I keep things approachable.

Throughout our journey, I aim to engage, educate, and empower you as you transition into a healthier human. Think of our time as a partnership where we utilize humor, relatable metaphors, and visual aids—alongside real-world tools you can between meetings. My mission is to provide that firm piece of support while you cultivate the self-assurance needed to thrive. I bring the specialized tools and structure, and you bring the willingness to roll up your sleeves.

We’ll keep things flexible enough to tackle whatever life throws, utilizing a customized mix of therapeutic modalities such as:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

An evidence-based approach that helps you spot and transform those pesky, unhelpful thought patterns that hold you back.

Grief Counseling

Navigating loss is a journey we'll take together, honoring your pain while focusing on empathy and healing.

Strengths-Based, Solution-Focused Therapy

We'll roll up our sleeves to build on your existing resources and achieve the specific goals you've set for yourself.

Inner Child Work

A deeper dive into self-discovery that empowers you to heal emotional wounds and grow into a healthier human.

Motivational Interviewing

A collaborative, curiosity-led partnership designed to guide you through transitions and spark real change.

What Keeps Me Grounded

When I’m not in the therapist chair, I make sure to practice what I preach by prioritizing my own well-being. To keep my battery charged and my spirit balanced, you can usually find me:

  • Soaking up quality time with my favorite people
  • Embracing a bit of peace and quiet through transcendental meditation
  • Staying curious—I’m a forever student at heart!
  • Giving back through local volunteer work.
  • Exploring new corners of the world and diving into different cultures.
  • Moving my body through Latin dancing, walking, and workouts.
  • Nurturing my spiritual side and deepening my self-awareness.

These simple habits keep me grounded and centered, so I can show up with my best self for you.

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