Maritza Lara (She/Her), LCSW

Hi, I’m Maritza, I have a passion for helping adolescents and adults navigate the challenges of Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and eating disorders. I’ve been practicing for over three years, and during that time, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals through some of their most difficult and transformative moments. My approach to therapy is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and cultural responsiveness. I utilize a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Art Therapy. Whether we’re exploring anxious thoughts, building coping strategies, or working toward self-acceptance, my goal is to create a space where you feel truly seen, heard, and supported.

As a first-generation Mexican American woman, my passion for this work began with personal experience. Growing up, I witnessed a lack of open conversations about mental health within my community—often met with shame, silence, or misunderstanding. I saw firsthand how that neglect could lead to pain and disconnection. This fueled my commitment to create space for healing, especially for those who have been taught to keep their struggles hidden or feel unsure where to begin. I often work with other first-generation individuals who are navigating the complex and layered experience of building their own path while trying to honor family values, cultural identity, and generational expectations. I understand how emotionally taxing it can be to balance these multiple roles, and I aim to support clients in finding clarity, confidence, and connection in their process.

I approach therapy through an anti-racist, socially aware lens, recognizing how systems—economic, social, and political—profoundly shape our lived experiences and access to care. These broader structures matter, and I bring that awareness into the therapeutic space with respect, humility, and ongoing self-reflection.

My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming, culturally responsive, and committed to creating safety, inclusion, and trust for all clients. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions to support your comfort and accessibility. If you’re ready to begin—or simply curious about what healing could look like—I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way.