With over a decade of experience in the field of trauma-informed care, I bring a deep understanding and a compassionate presence to the therapeutic space. My background includes working within the child dependency and criminal justice systems, supporting individuals through drug court, and serving as both a school social worker and counse
With over a decade of experience in the field of trauma-informed care, I bring a deep understanding and a compassionate presence to the therapeutic space. My background includes working within the child dependency and criminal justice systems, supporting individuals through drug court, and serving as both a school social worker and counselor. I also have specialized experience as an autism therapist, which has enriched my ability to connect with neurodiverse individuals and families. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a genuine commitment to helping clients navigate life’s challenges with resilience and hope.
Pronouns: She / Her
Gender: Female
Ethnicity: White
Languages: English
My approach to therapy is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep respect for each individual’s unique journey. I integrate evidence-based practices, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, to support clients in building resilience
My approach to therapy is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep respect for each individual’s unique journey. I integrate evidence-based practices, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, to support clients in building resilience, managing emotions, and achieving meaningful goals. My personal experience living with Type 1 diabetes allows me to bring empathy and insight to those navigating chronic health conditions. As both a military brat and spouse, I have a strong understanding of the unique challenges faced by military families, including firsthand awareness of PTSD and secondary trauma. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, empowered, and equipped to thrive.
Style:
I strive to create a space where clients feel genuinely supported, actively involved in their healing process, and understood through a lens that honors their lived experiences.
Works with:
Children, Teens, Adults
Treatment Modalities:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Solution Focused Therapy (SFT)
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
Modalities:
Modalities:
Location:
Clinical consultation provides expert guidance and support for professionals seeking help with complex cases or treatment approaches. Amanda offers personalized consultations to provide effective interventions and improve client outcomes.
Evaluation and assessment services offer comprehensive psychological evaluations and assessments for individuals seeking clarity and understanding of their mental health. Amanda utilizes evidence-based practices to provide accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans for optimal well-being.
Therapy services are offered for adults, lasting 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the client's needs. All clients undergo an initial assessment and develop a treatment plan to determine therapy frequency.
Please email maria@readytoelevate.org if you cannot find an answer to your question.
No! Maria offers free 15-minute consultations. During this time, you and Maria will discuss your needs and what you hope to get from therapy and see if it would be a good fit. You can schedule your consultation by emailing her at maria@readytoelevate.org
60 Minute Session: $125
Shorter or longer sessions pro-rated
If financial barriers prevent you from receiving therapeutic services, contact Maria directly to explore options with her sliding fee.
At this time, Maria can accept Cigna, Cigna EAP, Aetna, Aetna EAP, Florida Blue and Telus EAP insurance.
As a client of Maria's, all your information is protected under HIPAA. That means what you say in therapy will be kept between you and Maria . However, there are exceptions to confidentiality. Those exceptions would be if you or someone else is in danger, being hurt, or being neglected. This could include suicidal thoughts, homicidal thoughts, or claims of abuse. Amanda is a mandated reporter and is required to notify the appropriate agencies.
As a telehealth provider, Maria takes every precaution to ensure conversations are not overheard and that all information is kept in a secure platform. Please utilize headphones and participate in your session in a private area.
Additionally, Maria's clinical supervisor (CEO of Elevate PD) will review her session notes. Maria's supervisor is a qualified, Licensed Clinical Social Worker bound by the same ethical guidelines. Therefore, her supervisor cannot share your information except for the abovementioned instances.
In our first session, my goal is to create a warm, supportive space where you feel comfortable sharing your story at your own pace. We will begin by discussing what brings you to therapy, exploring your goals, and identifying any immediate concerns. I will also share a bit about my approach and answer any questions you may have. As someone who values connection and authenticity, my goal is for you to leave feeling heard, respected, and hopeful about the path ahead.
A Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in Florida is an individual who has met specific educational and examination requirements and is in the process of obtaining the supervised experience needed for full licensure as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state.
The ultimate goal of this internship period is to prepare the individual for practice as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), ensuring they have the necessary practical experience and professional supervision to provide competent and ethical clinical services.
In summary, a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in Florida is a professional in training. They work under supervision to meet the requirements for full licensure as an LCSW and provide clinical services while accumulating the required experience.
Maria is a registered as an intern until 2029 but anticipates being fully licensed in 2027.
Maria's Florida Department of Health license number is ISW20462.