Maria Chi

Works With

• Individuals
• Young Adults (18+)
• Mid-life Adults
• Older Adults (65+)

Therapy Approach

No matter the intervention, I strive to practice trauma-informed and culturally sensitive therapy. I'll work with you from a client-centered, strengths-based perspective. You are the driver, and I'm the guide.In therapy, I aim to show the same authenticity, respect for differences and diversity, and sense of humor (when appropriate) that I express in my everyday life. In an interactive, non-judgmental context, you’ll learn how to develop self-compassion, mobilize to reach your goals, and engage more fully in your life. Happiness is not necessarily the goal; it is the byproduct of a meaningful life.

I have special training in existential and meaning-making therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Basically, this means that in our work together, I will help you increase the sense of meaning and purpose in your life, challenge your unhelpful thinking patterns, increase your motivation for change, clarify what is most important to you, and understand the impact of your significant early experiences on your present life. 

Specialties

Most of my professional experience has been working with adults of all ages who are facing cancer and chronic illness, caregiving stress, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, and issues of self-esteem and self-worth. I’ve also worked extensively with younger adults struggling with various challenges in college, grad school, or that period of life.

I’ve been a frontline clinician and supervisor across various settings, such as community mental health centers, a hospital, a non-profit organization for people affected by cancer, and two telehealth agencies.

Get to Know

I grew up knowing I wanted to be of service to people. After studying psychology in college, I returned to school for a master’s degree in social work and most recently a doctoral degree in clinical social work.  I view life as a continuous process of growth and learning and I approach my work through the same lens. I believe that everyone has inherent worth and dignity, and my greatest reward is to help people discover their own value, meaning and purpose.

Life is painful but you don't have to suffer. One of my favorite quotes from Viktor Frankl is:"Those who have a ‘why’ to live can bear with almost any ‘how’.” Despite the very real obstacles to your well-being, choosing your mindset can set you free.

If this resonates with you, I welcome you to reach out.

Professional

• B.A. in psychology, Bowdoin College (1999)
• M.S. in clinical social work, Columbia University (2003)
• D.S.W. (clinical doctorate) in social welfare, New York University (2018)