Counselor Profile
Maria Wilson
Graduate Intern
Do you find yourself feeling sad, angry, frustrated, anxious? Is it sometimes difficult to understand why you feel this way and overcome these feelings? Are you a parent who is unsure how to help your child? If you answered yes, you are not alone.
Providing a safe and supportive environment is essential for clients to authentically and openly share whatever is on their minds. I hold a strong belief that my clients are the experts in their own experiences. It is my job to actively listen, validate their feelings, and empower them to recognize and understand their emotions in a healthy and constructive way. I use a tailored approach to meet each client’s unique needs.
As part of the developmental process, children and adolescents experience emotions in such a big way that parents/caregivers may not always understand or know how to respond. I am passionate about working with children experiencing anxiety, depression, developmental delays, emotional dysregulation, life adjustments, and trauma highlighting the use of Play Therapy where they can express themselves and make sense of the world around them. I support adolescents facing anxiety, depression, academic and social pressures, and emotional well-being by empowering them to tackle these challenges through building resilience, fostering self-awareness, enhancing coping skills, and promoting healthy relationship-building strategies.
Collaborating with parents fosters a comprehensive and efficient support structure that considers the individual needs of their child, resulting in improved outcomes and overall wellness. In addition, I work with young adults addressing anxiety, depression, and stress related to education, career, relationships, and identity formation transition. Together, we will develop coping mechanisms to effectively manage stressors and challenges.
Through my background in preschool education and supporting students in Exceptional Education, I have honed skills in meeting diverse needs, promoting inclusivity, and taking a holistic approach to support children and families. I am dedicated to helping all clients achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
When you are ready, I invite you to schedule a consultation that will embark on a journey of self-exploration and growth. Together, we can work towards understanding and achieving personal goals and see how counseling can offer support for you or your child.
MORE ABOUT ME:
When I am not working, you might find me spending time with my family, exercising as a form of self-care, or playing board games.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING:
- Pursuing a Dual Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling, expected May 2026
- Master of Arts in Psychology at The University of Arizona Global Campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Development at Ashford University
Client Population:
- Small Child (3-6)
- Child (7-10)
- Tween (11-13)
- Adolescent (14-17)
- Young Adult (18-25)
- Adult (25+)
Primary Modalities:
- Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Mindfulness Based
- Motivational Interviewing
- Person Centered/Humanistic Approach
- Solution Focused
Specialties:
- Anxiety / Panic
- Body Image
- Depression
- Gender/Sexual Identity (LGBTQIA+)
- Parenting
- Relationship Conflict
- Social Skills
- Substance Misuse
- Trauma and PTSD