About me
I am a CBT/Integrative Psychotherapist in the United Kingdom with 25 years of professional experience. I hold a degree in Psychology and trained in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) in 2004, delivering individual therapy and skills groups within a DBT team in East London. Additionally, I completed a Diploma in CBT (MSc level) at Exeter University.
I am a fully accredited member of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP). My expertise lies in third-wave psychotherapies, including Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I take an integrative approach, drawing from diverse theoretical and practical perspectives to deepen understanding of psychological challenges and inform effective therapeutic interventions.
My clinical experience and training encompass a wide range of mental health conditions across various settings. I worked for five years with the Depression and Anxiety Service in Exeter and East and Mid Devon, and most recently with the Psychology and Psychotherapy Department in Exeter, supporting survivors of childhood trauma.
I have extensive experience in helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, trauma, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, depression, and more. Additionally, I support individuals coping with life transitions.
Since 2017, I have combined private practice with employment.
Training, qualifications & experience
Main Training
- 2007-2009: University of Exeter, Exeter (UK)
- Diploma (MSc level) in Psychological Therapies, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy strand.
- BABCP Full Accreditation/Membership number 080645.
- 1995-1999Papal University of SalamancaSalamanca (SPAIN)
- Bachelor in Psychology
Further training
Therapy Training:
- 2007-2009: Introduction to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Oxford University. 8-day course (Exeter NHS)
- 2004: Dialectical Behavioural Therapy Training: CBT for Borderline Personality Disorders - 2-week course by Behavioural Tch, Northampton, USA.
- 1999: Family Therapy Systems Course: Papal University of Salamanca. Six months work experience for final part of my Degree.
Member organisations
school Registered / Accredited
Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.
The BABCP is the lead organisation for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in the UK. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in the practice, theory or development of CBT. BABCP also provides accreditation for CBT therapists. BABCP accredited members adhere to the Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics in the Practice of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies, and are willing to be scrutinised in this adherence as required.
Accredited register membership
The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Therapies offered
Fees
£65.00 per session
When I work
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Further information
Testimonials
Dear Maria, I can't thank you enough for all your help and support. You have helped me understand and learn techniques to overcome anxiety, challenge unwelcome thoughts, and focus on helpful behaviour. This has made such a positive difference in my life, I feel happier and can start thinking about the future. You are amazing!
Maria, many thanks for all you've done for me. I can manage, and I have no anxiety anymore because you have done an amazing job! I don’t have big plans for the future, but I am happy to have a few goals for tomorrow, I know what I want to do next week.
Thank you so much for all your help and support over the last few months. I don't think I could have come this far without your help, and I will be eternally grateful for everything you have done to help me get my life back on track.
Thank you very, very much for your kindness and support over the past three months. You have given me the tools to be the person I want to be and live my life the way I deserve. You have truly changed my life, and for that, I shall be forever grateful.
Thank you very much for being the calm and sensible voice that I needed! It's been a long time coming, but I finally feel like myself again.
Thank you for all your help. I have learned so much from our sessions, you are an amazing person. With your help, I have climbed out of that dark place, and I now feel great and positive about the future. I couldn't have asked for anyone better to support and guide me. I will never forget you.
Ethical Practice
- I adhere to the BABCP's Ethical Framework: www.babcp.com. Check my BABCP Accreditation
- Confidentiality and clinical supervision
I provide a confidential service where you can be certain that what you share with me will not be discussed outside our session. Saying this, there are a few exceptions to this rule, specifically where there is a significant risk of harm to either yourself or others. In such instances I will always discuss the situation with you first before speaking with any other relevant professionals, unless this would put you or someone else at greater risk. If you have any questions about this at any point we can discuss it further in person.
- I am registered with ARAG Legal Expenses Insurance Company Limited
