Background
Maria is an autistic ADHDer who recently moved to Warrnambool with her husband and two young children. Prior to opening Gentle Sensory, Maria worked in Youth Justice, supporting young people in custody. While working in custody, Maria also worked in youth work, assessment and coordination, and training and development.
Special Interests/ Hobbies
Aside from developing and delivering training to empower others, Maria enjoys finding out the latest research in the autism sector. Maria also enjoys reading fiction novels, playing PS5 and relaxing with her family.
Therapeutic Approach & Demographic
Although Maria is open to seeing most clients, she particularly enjoys supporting adolescent and emerging adults. In a clinical setting, Maria uses a cognitive behaviour approach, adapted for autistic individuals. Her approach includes integrating sensory awareness and knowledge into therapeutic work to support her clients. Maria also specialises in supporting complex behaviours through a neuro-affirming and person-centred approach. Maria also delivers parent and professional training on behaviour and mental health.
Qualifications
Maria's qualifications are:
• Master of Counselling
• Graduate Diploma of Youth Mental Health
• Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies
• Bachelor of Psychological Science
• Certificate IV in Training & Assessing
• Certificate IV in Youth Justice
• Master of Secondary Teaching (Currently Completing)