Background
Maria is an autistic ADHDer who recently moved to Warrnambool with her husband and two young children. Maria comes from a background of supporting young people in custody. After realising how important access to the right supports was, she decided to leave youth justice and to open Gentle Sensory.
Special Interests/ Hobbies
Aside from developing and delivering training to empower others, Maria enjoys staying up to date with 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 children and young people alongside their caregivers and parents. In a clinical setting, Maria uses a cognitive-behavioural approach adapted for neurodivergent minds. 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