ABOUTME!
As a therapist, I believe everyone can grow, heal, and change. I see each person as resilient, with their own strengths that can be supported and encouraged. My goal is to create a safe and caring space where individuals feel listened to, validated, and understood.
I believe that “Change is not only possible, it is inevitable when we embrace our true selves.” I use proven methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and mindfulness to help individuals become more self-aware, build coping skills, and support lasting well-being.
Empathy, respect, and authenticity are at the heart of my work. I am here to support people as they face challenges, helping them overcome obstacles and reach their potential. As Viktor Frankl said, “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” My aim is to guide individuals through self-discovery so they can become healthy, socially-emotionally independent, and love themselves.
As Maya Angelou said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I hope every individual leaves our sessions feeling valued, capable, and inspired to live a meaningful life.
Professional Specializations
CBT/DBT/ACT
Mood/Anxiety Disorders
Trauma Stress-Related Disorders
Obsessive Compulsive/Related Disorders
Social Environment Problems
Self-Harming Behavior/Suicidality
Laughter Yoga/MBSR
Mental Health Program Development/Coordination
Relationships/Family Dynamic Issues
Adjustment Problems/Disorders
Mental Health Presentations/Workshops
Adolescent Mental Health/LGBTQ+/Young Adults
Programs, Trainings, and Certificates
Mindfulness Studies
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Introduction to Mindfulness Teacher Certification (Mindfulness and Health Institute) in progress,
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Mindful Eating (Mindfulness and Health Institute)2025
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Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Teacher Certification (Brown University) in progress
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Deeper Mindfulness, 2025
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The Science and Practice of Habit Change, 2024
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Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Program, 2022
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Laughter Yoga Leader Certification, 2022
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Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program, 2021
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Suicide Prevention and Intervention
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CAMS (Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality) Certificate, 2024
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CAMS-4Teens (Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality) Certificate, 2024CAMS-4Teens and Parents (Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality) Certificate, 2024
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CAMS Difficult Patients (Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality) Certificate, 2024,
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Youth Mental Health First Aid Train the Trainer, 2023
Counseling and Therapy
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Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) Assessment, Certificate, 2022
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Beck Initiative Cognitive Therapy (Certificate - 22 hours), 2017
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Co-Occurring Psychiatric and Substance Use Disorders (COPSD) Certificate, 2018
"Maricela has been such a big help in my mental health journey and does not shy away from presenting helpful adjustments. She has allowed me to explore various aspects of myself that have furthered my confidence and helped me manage my anxiety. The change does not happen overnight; it takes work and dedication, which is what Maricela did. Through her efforts and understanding of myself, I am who I am now." Austin Texas
"I came into my first therapy session nervous, and was immediately calmed by Maricela's warmth and humor. Was patient as I filled out last-minute questions that I missed earlier." Dallas, Texas