Maria Elena Marquez: A Journey of Compassion and Healing
Introduction: Maria Elena Marquez is a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist whose diverse background and passion for mental health have made her an invaluable resource for children, families, and adults. Her dedication to cultural sensitivity and her continuous pursuit of knowledge have shaped her unique approach to therapy.
Early Life and Education: Born prematurely in Pasadena, California, Maria Elena grew up influenced by her multicultural heritage. With her mother from El Salvador and her father from Colombia, she spent her summers in El Salvador, learning Spanish and embracing her cultural roots. These experiences, combined with her work as a teacher’s assistant for children with special needs, ignited her love for children and art.
Maria Elena pursued a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy at Phillips Graduate University in Chatsworth, California. Her practicum with the Latino Family Systems Program was transformative, fueling her passion for addressing mental health stigmas within the Latine community.
Professional Experience: Maria Elena began her career at Foothill Family Services, providing early intervention and mental health services to babies, toddlers, and their families. During her six years there, she also mentored students in their practicum experiences. She later worked in private practice in Highland Park and Encino, California, focusing on adults and families as a Licensed Therapist.
Specialization and Private Practice: In late December 2023, Maria Elena joined Soultenders in Whittier, where she continues to provide mental health treatment. Her practice was further enriched by her training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) under the guidance of Cecilia Penailillo, an EMDRIA Approved Trainer. This specialization has transformed her therapeutic approach, offering significant benefits to her clients.
Cultural Sensitivity and Advocacy: Maria Elena is deeply committed to addressing mental health stigmas and cultural sensitivities within the Latine community. Her understanding of language barriers, migration stories, and intergenerational trauma informs her compassionate approach to therapy. Her personal and professional experiences have made her an empathetic and effective therapist.
Personal Interests and Life Balance: Outside of her professional life, Maria Elena enjoys discovering new restaurants and coffee shops. She cherishes her monthly catch-ups with her dear friend, Yvette Flores, LMFT. Her interests in décor, hospitality, and culinary delights reflect her well-rounded personality and zest for life.
Maria Elena Marquez’s journey is a testament to her dedication to mental health and her lasting impact on her clients and community. Her continuous pursuit of learning and growth, both personally and professionally, makes her a beacon of hope and healing.
Visit Maria’s online profile to learn more
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