Couples therapists in Encinitas, CA

Client should know that I am a professional writer with a wide array of subjects of interest that I study and write about. They include theology, history, belief systems, sociology, science including biology and most of all on philosophy. I think that these various subject areas contribute to our understanding of the whole person/client and is a great help in revealing to us the psychology that drives human behavior My approach to is evidence based relying on research as the guiding principal.

I offer a space where rigorous thinking and genuine connection work together. I draw on psychoeducation and clinical reasoning to help adults make sense of complex patterns in their relationships, identities, and the systems that shape daily life. I see clients remotely throughout California and Nevada, with one goal: moving you from insight to sustainable progress.

I specialize in supporting people who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, trauma, life transitions and much more. I have extensive experience working with high acuity teens, and I also work with adults of all ages who are navigating imbalance, self-acceptance uncertainty, or emotional overload. I support parents who need guidance in understanding their child’s needs or simply a calm place to process their own feelings. No matter your age or background, if you are struggling to find balance and peace in life, I am here to help.

My approach begins with the belief that life poses great challenges for all of us. Through these challenges, we develop adaptive patterns that may help us survive but can also bring disharmony. I aim to help you bring awareness to these patterns, loosen their grip, and reshape them so you can find greater balance and harmony in your relationship with yourself, others, and the world.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working in school-based and community mental health settings, supporting children, teens, young adults, adults, and families through a wide range of emotional and relational challenges.

I specialize in working with anxiety, self-esteem struggles, emotional regulation, life transitions, relationship stress, and school-related challenges. My experience working closely with youth and families has deeply shaped the way I understand emotional development, family dynamics, and the importance of feeling seen, supported, and connected.

Clients often describe me as warm, approachable, engaging, and easy to talk to. I believe therapy should feel human, collaborative, and supportive — not cold or overly clinical. My goal is to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are while feeling safe enough to grow, heal, and better understand yourself.

I’m Maria, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over twelve years of experience working with families, children, and adults. My work has focused on breaking generational cycles of trauma and navigating challenging life transitions. In my work I have supported individuals and families through growing up, raising their children, and bringing healing and harmony into the home. I am deeply passionate about helping others on their journeys toward personal growth and a better quality of life and consider it a gift to be an agent of change.

In addition to my clinical work, I am also a working mother of a college student and clinically supervise and train other clinicians. This experience gives me a unique perspective and understanding on navigating life transitions and balancing multiple roles.

My approach is warm, affirmative, and solution-oriented – with some humor mixed in. While it can feel intimidating to take that first step, if you are ready, I can guide you in finding areas of strength while also challenging areas for growth in a compassionate way. Together we can work toward healing in a safe environment and create positive change to improve your quality of life.

As a Licensed Psychotherapist with over 17 years of clinical experience, I have dedicated my career to helping children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and discover their strengths. In addition to my private practice, my work in a hospital Emergency Department has provided me with valuable experience supporting individuals and families during some of their most difficult and vulnerable moments.