Maria Struve

Hi, I’m Maria, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona with nearly 20 years of experience helping people navigate trauma, anxiety, relationships, and life transitions. I earned my undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and my graduate degree from Trinity International University, and I have extensive training in Somatic Experiencing and trauma-focused approaches. Originally from the Midwest, I bring a warm, compassionate, and curious approach to therapy, and I believe meaningful change happens when you feel truly understood and supported. I’d be honored to work with you wherever you are in your journey.

My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own life. My original training was in CBT and DBT, and my approach has evolved to incorporate the person-centered work of Carl Rogers, strategic approaches influenced by Jay Haley, and extensive post-graduate training in Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and attachment- and relationship-focused therapy. I especially enjoy parts work and helping people understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, bodies, and relationships. Together, we’ll explore patterns that may no longer be serving you and find practical ways to help you feel more grounded, connected, and empowered.

In our first session, my priority is to create a warm, comfortable environment where you feel heard and understood. We’ll get to know each other and explore what is working well in your life, what isn’t, and what you would like to be different, without pressure to share more than you’re ready to. I’ll also help identify your existing strengths and resources, because I believe therapy should build on what is already working, not just focus on what is wrong. By the end of our first session, we’ll have a clearer sense of your goals and a direction for moving forward together.