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Illuminating Bright Minds

At Shooting Star Counseling, practice owner, Maria believes that even in the darkest skies, there are sparks of light waiting to guide you forward. Therapy is that spark—an invitation to go within, find clarity, and bring about meaningful change. Together, we’ll uncover the strength, wisdom, and resilience already within you to live the authentic life you desire. 

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You may be feeling overwhelmed by the demands of work, caught in cycles of anxiety or self-doubt, depression, trauma, or carrying the weight of grief, relationship struggles, and low self-esteem. Maybe you’re at a crossroads—longing for clarity, deeper meaning, or a renewed sense of direction. You’re used to being strong, resourceful , and intelligent by thinking your way through a problem, but you're coming against a wall. How you typically manage your stressors is no longer working. â€‹

Counseling Services

Maria provides individual counseling, family counseling, couples counseling, and productivity and work-life balance coaching 

Individual Therapy or Coaching

Maria supports adults navigating stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, challenging relationships or low self-esteem. â€‹â€‹She also helps adults working in high stress environments, struggling to maintain work-life balance, employee relations, or exploring future professional directions. 

Couples

Maria is grounded in the Gottman Method, focused on building trust, friendship, and commitment to one another, while increasing emotional atunement to foster positive communication and deeper connection. The Gottman Method is based on over 40+ years of gathered data and research on what leads to happy, healthy intimate relationships and marriages. 

Family

Maria applies Systemic Therapy to seek to understand the family as a whole system and considers how individual behaviors and interactions impact the entire family unit. She also uses a solution-focused lens to address crises or acute issues the family is facing and to develop immediate solutions.

Coaching

Maria is a certified life coach specializing in productivity and work-life balance. Maria's extensive experience in leadership and individual contributor roles within the coprorate, and startup environment allows her to support clients professionally. 

How is Maria different from other therapists?

Pace

Your Goals, Your Pace

Our work is guided by what matters to you. I honor your rhythm while gently encouraging deeper exploration when you’re ready.

Safety

Nonjudgemental Support

You’ll find a safe space and comfort where your choices are respected and free from outside opinions. No judgment, no personal opinions—just support and understanding.

Tools

Tools You Can Use

You’ll leave sessions with clarity, direction, practical strategies, and greater self-awareness. I often hear from clients that therapy in the past was simply venting or talking, sometimes that can be therapeutically helpful, but my sessions are different from the average therapist and I want you to leave with something of true value. 

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