Maria began her college journey at Weber State University in Ogden, UT. She began as a Psychology Major but after taking an Introduction to Social Work class as an elective, she quickly changed to a Social Work Major. Social Work seemed like a much better fit for her personality and career goals. She graduated in 1996 with her Bachelor’s in Social Work.

Maria then moved to San Antonio, Texas where she attended the accelerated program at Our Lady of the Lake University. She graduated with her Master’s in Social Work in 1998. She loved the culture and diversity of San Antonio, but missed her family terribly, so she moved back to Ogden to begin her career.

From an early age Maria enjoyed helping others. She would often get into trouble for giving away her clothes and toys to neighborhood children. She had a younger brother who was born with Spina Bifada and was paralyzed from the waist down. She learned from then on to fight for the “underdog” and be an advocate for those who may have not found their voice yet.

Through the years, Maria continued to want to make a difference in people’s lives. She grew to have a passion for helping others work through difficult situations.

While working on her undergraduate degree, Maria worked with Ogden City School District as a Job Coach working with adults with disabilities out in the workforce. During her graduate program, she worked as a school therapist with children ages 6-18. After moving back to Utah after her Master’s Degree, Maria began her now 25 year career with the Division of Child and Family Services. She has also provided telehealth therapy part time. Maria enjoys working with adults from all walks of life who want to process situations that they have been through that may be keeping them from living a life they want for themselves.

Maria has specialized in working with survivors of domestic violence. She has worked with people struggling with self-esteem/self-worth, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, addictions, and trauma.

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I am a firm believer in self-care. We have to make sure our own cup is full before we can help anyone else. For me, this is manicures, pedicures, massages, spending time with loved ones. I have also been able to recognize when I am struggling mentally and have sought out therapy for myself. I absolutely love being in therapy and having someone help guide me through lives struggles.

I love traveling. I have a large family that lives all over the states and have enjoyed traveling to different places to see them. Family is very important to me. I love going to concerts and have a very eclectic taste in music from Snoop Dogg to Rick Springfield! I’m a hit at every party with my music playlists. I enjoy campfires and the outdoors, but not so much camping, more of “glamping” in a trailer or cabin.