Maria Dias , LCSW

Maria Dias is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has provided psychotherapy since 2005. She began her academic journey at Rutgers University, earning a Bachelor of Liberal Arts with a double major in Psychology and Social Work, and went on to complete a Master of Social Work at New York University. Over the years she has continued formal training, including postgraduate work focused on clinical care for adolescents and their families using evidence-based methods, psychoanalytic training, hypnotherapy, and specialized instruction in treating panic and anxiety.

Maria approaches each person as both connected to common human experience and uniquely individual. She draws from an eclectic set of methods rather than fitting people into a single theoretical box, tailoring interventions to match each person's needs and pace. Her work centers on creating a non-judgmental environment where clients can explore hopes, fears, and goals, and then set practical steps toward meaningful change.

Throughout her practice Maria integrates skill-based techniques and reflective therapeutic conversation to address a wide range of concerns, including stress, anxiety, relationship and family issues, trauma and abuse, depression, grief, parenting and career challenges, and struggles with self-esteem and coping with life changes.

Therapeutic Approaches and How They Work Online

Maria integrates client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) into her online practice. Client-centered therapy emphasizes empathy, active listening, and building a strong therapeutic relationship so clients can explore identity, self-esteem, and relationship concerns at their own pace. CBT focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and replacing them with practical strategies to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, and panic. DBT teaches concrete skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, which can be especially useful for managing anger, intense emotions, and relationship difficulties.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Maria works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences. She tailors techniques and pacing so interventions feel useful and manageable.

Online therapy with Maria is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, providing flexibility for people juggling work, caregiving, or geographic constraints. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care and to access licensed professionals from the settings that best fit a client's life.