Maria Urquiza, MA

Maria has acquired a dual Master’s degree in Forensic Mental Health Leadership & Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University. She received her Bachelors of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor in Anthropology from Saint Xavier University. Her experience includes working with clients of all ages, applying Applied Behavioral Analysis, to increase her clients engagement in more healthy, effective behaviors and reducing negative, ineffective communication and social interactions Maria also has advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety related disorders. 

Maria’s clinical approach uses CBT, along with Adlerian therapy theory, which centers on the ideology of emphasizing an individual’s drive for success and contributions to society. Maria was raised on the Southside of Chicago and is fluent in Spanish, and was featured in “Mujeres in Psychology ” where she spoke of her clinical interests and the cultural stigma surrounding seeking counseling. Maria emphasizes the importance of letting her clients know that seeking help is normal, and no one is “broken” or “weak” for doing so. Maria focuses on creating an enriching, safe and comfortable environment for all her clients both in the office and through the computer screen.