Maria Paz Ribadeneira, Bilingual Psychotherapist, LPC, NCC
Licensed Professional Counselor
I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from DePaul University, and I have had the privilege of walking alongside individuals, couples, and families in a private practice setting. Originally from Quito, Ecuador, I made Chicago my home after completing my undergraduate studies.
I believe healing happens through connection, and that each person already carries the inner resources needed for growth, self-discovery, and meaningful change. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe, understood, and supported as they explore their thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, and holistic; working alongside each client to build resilience and find their own path to healing.
Areas of Focus / Specialties
I work with clients who are navigating:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Self-Esteem
- Grief and Loss
- Coping Skills
- Life Transitions
- Women’s Issues
- Trauma and PTSD
- Career Exploration
- Anger Management
- Body Image Concerns
- Emotional Disturbance
- Multicultural and Identity-Related Concerns
- Relationship Issues, including Marital and Premarital Concerns
My work is informed by a person-centered approach, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Parts Work, and holistic care. I tailor each session to each client’s unique needs, incorporating mindfulness exercises, meditation techniques, and stress-reduction strategies, with close attention to the mind-body-spirit connection throughout. Rather than focusing only on symptoms, we work together to understand and address the root causes of distress.
Clients often describe me as warm, thoughtful, and compassionate. In sessions, clients can expect a grounded, safe space for thoughtful, collaborative conversation, meaningful skill-building, and gentle exploration of what lies beneath the surface.
Outside of the therapy room, I find joy in traveling, exploring, reading, hosting, and spending cherished time with my son, family, and loved ones. I believe every step counts on the journey toward healing, and that choosing to begin therapy is, in itself, an act of courage. Mental health advocacy and culturally responsive care for our community are deeply meaningful to me, and I carry them with pride in my work. I provide services in English and Spanish.
MaríaPaz es una terapeuta clínica de salud mental bilingüe que trabaja desde una perspectiva holística. Aplica diversas modalidades terapéuticas, incorporando ejercicios de mindfulness, técnicas de meditación y estrategias para reducir el estrés, con el fin de apoyar a sus clientes en su proceso terapéutico. Con una profunda comprensión de la conexión mente-cuerpo-espíritu, ayuda a las personas a lograr crecimiento personal, autodescubrimiento y cambios significativos.
MaríaPaz crea un espacio seguro y colaborativo donde los clientes pueden explorar sus experiencias, pensamientos y emociones. Hace énfasis en atender las causas de fondo del malestar e integra el mindfulness y el autocuidado dentro del proceso terapéutico. Trabaja desde un enfoque colaborativo y centrado en el cliente, reconociendo que cada persona es única y requiere un acompañamiento adaptado a sus necesidades para sanar y crecer.
A través de su enfoque, MaríaPaz empodera a sus clientes para conectar con sus propios recursos internos, desarrollar resiliencia, descubrir su propio camino hacia la sanación, encontrar sentido y vivir una vida más plena.
MaríaPaz es originaria de Quito, Ecuador. Se mudó a Chicago después de completar su licenciatura en Psicología en Alma College, en Michigan, y obtuvo su maestría en Consejería de Salud Mental Clínica en DePaul University en Chicago.
Idiomas: español e inglés
