Maria WALKS ON THE BEACH with her clients in Santa Monica, CA. She works with adults of all ages with a focus on young adults. She is particularly sensitive to concerns about climate change and about world affairs; she helps clients cope with anxiety or grief about the current state of our planet; and she works with them to find the delicate balance between their inevitable difficult emotions and being at peace in their daily lives. Maria helps clients thrive academically, in their relationships, and in their careers and she teaches them practical coping skills in life transitions.Maria provides a unique experience for those who enjoy being outdoors to interact with nature during therapy. She has been walking on the beach with her clients for many years as this facilitates emotion regulation, improved mood, and a sense of connection. Maria helps clients understand their thought patterns, emotional and physical responses and learn to respond in helpful ways rather than react in the face of challenges. A trauma-informed therapist, Maria is sensitive to the influence of past experiences on present challenges. She teaches clients how to practice self-compassion and to set healthier boundaries, and helps them live in alignment with their authentic self. Maria works with a diverse clientele and specializes in providing culturally responsive and identity-affirming psychotherapy. She is poly and LGBTQIA+ affirming. Working in her happy place allows Maria to bring her most authentic, non-judgmental, and compassionate version of herself to her sessions. Message to clientsI make sure that going to therapy is not scary. I'm very warm and compassionate, I walk with you to make it less intimidating than sitting across from you, and I hope to teach you tools that you can use for the rest of your life. I listen deeply to learn about you and your challenges, and I offer you coping strategies that I believe are most relevant and beneficial to your needs. The beach itself is restorative, helping you regulate your emotions and reducing your stress, anxiety, and depression, while increasing your sense of belonging and opportunities to experience awe and joy. We might even spot dolphins and, if we're really lucky, whales. Thank you for your interest in working with me and I look forward to hearing from you.