My Approach
All the 'parts' of you matter and I want to support you in being authentic with yourself as I commit to being the same.
Being human is a messy business. Grief and loss, life transitions, parenting, love, relationships, and becoming - they are not neat and tidy and that's OK. I commit to creating a space where you can practice authenticity, first with yourself and with me. I believe that honoring our different parts, that is, aspects of our identities that may seem in conflict, or feelings or thoughts that seem in opposition, is central to processing the challenges we face and make long-term changes that will contribute to healing.
Therapy is about cultivating curiosity and new perspectives in session and learning or unlearning ways of being outside of the session
I approach therapy with curiosity to co-explore the roots of challenges you, your kiddos, or family face. I think that effective therapy is reflective and curious about the past, and also focused on making changes and being active in the present. Recognizing that life is lived largely outside of the therapy room, I am committed to thinking creatively with you about practical skills and strategies that can be used in your daily life.
I balance an evidence-based and relational approach
As both a researcher and clinician, I value using effective, evidence-based therapy approaches with my clients. Put another way, I want to use practices that have been shown to be effective for your specific issue(s) so you and your family find healing. I also use a relational, attachment-focused approach that is attuned to how our relationships and relational wounds have shaped the way we relate to others. "Fit" with your therapist is incredibly important. You feeling safe, supported, seen, and respected is ultimately more important for your growth than any specific approach I might use. I look forward to meeting you and hearing your story.
A Bit About Maria
Dr. Maria has a M.A. in Couples and Family Therapy and a Ph.D. in Prevention Science. Maria is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (OR #T1883) with certifications in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy and Prepare/Enrich Couples Counseling. Maria has various other clinical and educational expertise in early childhood development, cognitive behavioral therapy, and attachment. She has been a consultant and trainer for Headstart, Court Appointed Special Advocates, and EC Cares. Maria runs a research laboratory at the University of Oregon and also teaches courses in the Counseling Psychology and Human Services Department at UO. When not with clients, you can find Maria hiking or hammocking across the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her husband and two-year-old daughter.
Pronouns: She, her, hers.
Education and Professional Experience
2021 - Present
Private Practice as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
2020
Ph.D. Prevention Science
Department of Counseling Psychology and Human Services
University of Oregon
Eugene, Oregon
2014-2021
Family and Early Childhood Therapist, Options Counseling,
Eugene, Oregon
2013
Master's in Couples and Family Therapy
Bethel University
St. Paul, Minnesota
2012 - 2014
In-Home and Outpatient Early Childhood and Family Therapist
Family Innovations
Maplewood, Minnesota