About Me

My name is Maria (She/Her)

I am a registered Social Worker with the AASW.

With over 14 years of experience working in domestic violence and sexual assault services, I’ve had the privilege of working in not-for-profit organisations, taking on roles in crisis intervention, counselling, and team leadership. My work is driven by a deep passion for changing societal views on these critical issues and creating pathways for healing.

I am deeply committed to understanding the long-lasting impacts of trauma, always through an intersectional lens. My approach focuses on safety, education, advocacy and empowerment to bring meaningful change and promote healing in our communities.

I believe in your uniqueness, your journey, and the incredible potential for transformation. My goal is to support you in discovering and becoming the person you were always meant to be.

I offer consultations at my practice via telehealth and soon face to face.

As a lifelong learner, I continuously seek out new knowledge and skills, legislation changes and current news to better serve my clients and the community. I look forward to partnering with you on your path to clarity and growth.

Trauma Informed

Trauma Informed

My Approach …

Is grounded in trauma-informed values that prioritise safety—both physical and emotional—alongside trust, transparency, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. I believe in the strengths-based principles that people are experts in their own lives, they can change and grow, and the problem is the problem: the person is not the problem (McCashen 2017)

Recognizing the complexity of human experience, I utilise an eclectic blend of frameworks and theories as needed, including:

  • Person-Centered Therapy ~ Strength-Based Approaches

  • Narrative Therapy ~ Solution-Focused Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Motivational Interviewing ~ Schema Therapy

  • Feminist Theory ~ Response-Based Approach

  • Attachment Theory ~ Systems Theory

  • Family Systems Theory ~ Social Learning Theory

I think self care and maintaining life balance are essential.