MEET OUR TEAM

We believe in YOU and your capacity to create a better life.

Are you just plain tired of worrying and worrying about worrying?

  • You’re overwhelmed by thoughts and emotions and are ready for help.

  • You’re tired of feeling disconnected from the ones you love.

  • You want to create a better life but aren’t sure you can do it on your own.

Even though things may feel a bit hopeless right now, it’s important to recognize you’re not in this alone.

We’re here to help you.

Creating a meaningful life—one where you’re able to feel calm, connected, and confident—is not natural or easy for everyone. Like many of our patients, you’ve probably already tried different strategies to get a handle on things but find yourself repeating the same unhealthy patterns despite desperately wanting to change.

Rest assured that with willingness, a good therapeutic relationship, and the right strategies, it Is possible!

Everyone can change and create a life they’re excited about living!

A wooden pier overlooking a glowing and calm sunset.

Dr. Maribel Gonzalez
Licensed Psychologist
Founder & Clinical Supervisor

DBT-LBC, Certified Clinician

Since the age of 17, when I signed up for my first Psychology class in High School, I knew I wanted to be a psychologist.

The opportunity to help others, especially those who are in deep emotional pain, was something I could not pass on. Since then, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people modify their mindset, change their behavior, and manage their emotions so they can create the life they dream about—a life that’s meaningful and purposeful. A way of living where they can achieve their goals and build healthy and lasting relationships.

I know things have been hard for you lately and it might be hard to reach out for help. We’re glad you're here because we know things can start to get better for you soon.

Why work with us:

We care deeply about our clients and believe collaboration is the key to a successful therapeutic relationship.

During our journey together, we'll set goals for treatment which consider changing thinking and behavior patterns that are now getting in the way of your life goals. We'll stand by your side and guide you as you overcome life's hurdles, providing you with tools that will help you manage intense emotions and nagging thoughts. At times, when things don't work out exactly as planned, we will be there to support you and help you get back on track so you can begin moving forward again.

Imagine creating a life you're excited about living:

  • Having peace of mind.

  • Feeling connected to others.

  • Being able to manage your emotions in healthy ways.

  • Experiencing personal confidence.

When this happens, we've both done our job—you've become your own therapist and may no longer need therapy with us.

We’ll definitely miss you, but we’ll also feel satisfied and excited for you, knowing that you’re now empowered to tackle life’s challenges and chapters yet to come.

Education & training:

  • BA in Psychology, Georgetown University

  • MA & PhD in Clinical Psychology, Carlos Albizu University

  • DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified DBT Clinician

  • Foundational Trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) through Behavioral Tech, DBT treatment developer’s Marsha Linehan training Institute

  • Trained in DBT Skills for Adolescents with Multiple Problems by Dr. Blaise Aguirre, founding medical director 3East McLean Hospital

  • Intensively Trained in DBT-Prolonged Exposure for trauma by treatment developer Melanie Harned

  • Comprehensively Trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) by treatment developer Steven Hayes and master trainers Robyn Walsner and Kelly Wilson.

  • Intensively Trained in Advanced DBT by Charlie Swenson, MD & Kelly Koerner, PhD.

  • Comprehensively Trained in Invitation to Change Approach (ITC) by program developers Jeff Foote, PhD. & Ken Carpenter, PhD.

  • Intensively trained in DBT Family, Parents & Couples Therapy by treatment developer Dr. Alan Fruzzetti

  • Intensively trained as Family Connections Leader by program developer Dr. Alan Fruzzetti

  • Trained in DBT for Substance Use Disorder by Dorian Hunter, PhD.

  • Certified Bullying Prevention Trainer, Clemson University

  • Primary Therapist, First Hospital Panamericano, Behavioral Health Teen & Adult Units