Maria Fontaine Velasco

Due to the cumulative effect transitions can be stressful, the unplanned ones tend to cause the most stress, leaving us feeling unprepared for what is to come, frightened or vulnerable. The stress of these situations can lead to feelings of anxiety, sometimes leaving us feeling overwhelmed. As you become pro-active in the change process, You will feel empowered and look for opportunities to make things better. We will discuss various aspects of your self -care such as routines, sleep, eating healthy and healthy coping skills. During your therapeutic care you will begin the journey towards a more healthy and productive life. I value on cultural competency, diversity, and will be compassionate, genuine and supportive along the journey we will begin together. As a bicultural, bilingual clinician, I am well aware of how important cultural and family norms are and what role these play in our daily lives. I am sensitive to inter-generational conflicts that arise due to acculturation issues. Envisioning a rich and rewarding life can be challenging when you are overcome by either longstanding or daily problems. Certain beliefs & behaviors help to navigate the complexities of life but sometimes overwhelming emotions prevail. I have extensive training in a range of modalities including, strength-based coaching, existentialism, family-therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy ultimately incorporating unconditional positive regard. I view therapy as a journey forward. How we get there depends on your needs. We will identify your goals, and we will work as a team to achieve them. My style is genuine and interactive, and I provide direct feedback in sessions. My hope is to empower you to find the tools within to thrive on your own. Special attributions to my approach include a delicate, open space and appreciation of each client’s individuality. Together we can work to learn about yourself and provide support to cope with the dynamics of your life. There is nothing more exciting then working with the resiliency of the human spirit! My hope is to create a safe place so you can explore and grow while managing the ups and down of this journey we call life. My experience has led me to conclude that talking, processing, in a therapeutic environment, is one of the most powerful agents of change. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have difficulty regulating their emotions, managing relationships, career changes and life adjustments. We will survey the landscape of your past and current experiences, focusing on old patterns that may need redefining so they can give way to new possibilities. A key to successful therapy is providing space to be heard and understood, with careful attention paid to the interplay between the head and the heart. When we listen to the mind/body connection is when we can truly hear ourselves and open up to authentic change and growth. I strive to create and maintain a safe and judgement-free space for you. Together, we will foster empowerment, self-confidence while exploring new behaviors or changes that will help you to move forward towards a more fulfilling life you desire.