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Headshot of Maritza Contreras-Rivera, LMFT

Maritza Contreras-Rivera

Therapist
8 years of experience
  • Anxiety, Depression, PTSD
  • Individual therapy

Great to meet you!

I work with people who seem to have it all together on the outside but struggle internally with intense emotions, self-criticism, and self-sabotaging behaviors. If you often find yourself stuck in frustrating emotional cycles, whether it's lashing out, shutting down, or overthinking, I can help you break these patterns. We’ll focus on building strategies that work for you, so you can finally stop reacting and start responding in a way that improves your life and relationships.

My approach to therapy

I believe therapy works best when it’s both structured and flexible. My goal is to provide real, tangible skills that you can use to navigate life's challenges, not just talk about them. I use tools from DBT, ACT, and CBT to help you navigate intense emotions, break unhelpful cycles, and make real changes. Therapy with me isn’t about just talking; it’s about learning to handle life better, no matter what comes your way.

What you can expect from me

Clients can expect to leave with actionable strategies that they can start applying immediately in their daily lives. You’ll gain insight into your emotional patterns, learn how to regulate your reactions, and develop skills to handle life’s challenges more effectively.

About me

  • I identify as
    Hispanic, Cisgender Woman
  • My style is
    Participatory, Direct, Solution Oriented

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    8 years of experience
  • Training
    MA (Master of Arts) at University of San Diego
  • License type
    LMFT (Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist) (California)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Anthem Blue Cross

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Anxiety, Depression, PTSD
  • More specialties
    ADD/ADHD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, Family issues, Stress management, Anger management, Panic disorders, Grief or loss, Men's issues, Relationship issues, Women's issues, Trauma
  • Therapy methods
    Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
  • Care types
    Individual therapy
  • Ages served
    Adults, Seniors
  • Languages
    English