- Strengths based
- Goal oriented
- Evidence informed
About Maria
Maria Rivera is an LCSW with 15 years of clinical experience based in North Carolina. She works in a straightforward, respectful way and helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, and addictions. She also supports people struggling with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and life transitions.
Her approach starts with listening to each person’s story. She treats clients as the expert on their own life and builds on existing strengths. Sessions focus on practical steps and clear goals rather than jargon.
Maria uses methods drawn from cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy to help people manage difficult thoughts and feelings. She also brings client-centered skills and solution-focused tools for problem solving and motivation. These tools are used to address issues like anger, grief, ADHD, body image, and caregiver stress.
Over 15 years she has worked with a wide range of concerns including eating problems, bipolar disorder, chronic illness, adoption and foster care questions, and attachment issues. Her work often includes improving communication, reducing codependency, and coping with control and commitment struggles.
Maria encourages straightforward conversations about what feels most pressing. She helps people set small, doable steps and track progress. Taking the first step to start therapy can feel hard, and she acknowledges that effort while helping clients move forward.
How Maria’s approaches translate to online work
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice thoughts and feelings without being driven by them, then choose actions that match their values. It can be useful for anxiety, stress, and problems that keep reappearing. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact and teaches practical strategies to change unhelpful patterns. It is commonly used for anxiety, depression, and anger management. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes listening and building a respectful, nonjudgmental relationship so clients can find their own solutions and grow at their own pace.The right approach often becomes clear through early sessions. Maria works collaboratively to find what fits each person’s needs, goals, and preferences. She will discuss different methods and adjust the plan as you try strategies and see what helps.
If you are considering online therapy, confirm the session formats before booking since options are not listed here. Online work can make it easier to fit appointments around work, caregiving, or other responsibilities. It can also allow shorter check-ins when schedules are tight, and avoid travel time on busy days. Licensed professionals can use these approaches effectively in remote sessions, and Maria will help tailor the format and techniques to your situation.
Areas of focus
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does she address?
She helps people with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship concerns, trauma and abuse, and coping with life changes. Additional focus areas include ADHD, grief, eating issues, and caregiver stress.
What is her style in therapy?
Her style is direct and collaborative, building on each person’s strengths. She focuses on practical steps, clear goals, and tools you can use between sessions.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has 15 years of professional work experience helping people with a wide range of concerns. That experience informs how she tailors interventions to individual needs.
What credentials and region does she practice in?
She holds an LCSW, licensed in North Carolina, and provides services from that state.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people from other countries work with her?
She does not accept international clients at this time.
How are costs and billing handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time. Specific pricing is provided during the booking process.
How do I begin a therapy relationship?
Start by selecting the Start Therapy button, completing a short matching questionnaire, and then scheduling according to therapist availability.