I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the State of Washington. I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Community Psychology and my Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Washington. I chose the path of mental health to bring awareness to the importance of therapeutic interventions and approaches rooted in empathy, kindness, love, and respect for all human beings. My clinical background consists of working with children, youth, and families, as well as couples, adults, and families of diverse backgrounds. I utilize a social justice, client-centered approach and have rooted my practice in evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Attachment-Based Family Therapy. My therapeutic approach seeks to be collaborative – I hope to accompany you in your search for wholeness, meaning, and authenticity, and encourage healthy coping and distress tolerance skills to resolve difficult feelings. My practice incorporates evidence-based practices to ensure holistic and individualized care for individuals. I have a particular interest in working with Latino/a/x communities, individuals, and families as I share a bi-cultural and bilingual lived experience. My practice seeks to bridge cultural gaps between individuals and communities and the world of mental health.
 
 

Approach

My approach to therapy is grounded in a multicultural perspective and social work principles. I strive to promote the integration of cultural context and family history in therapeutic interventions. My approach is client-centered, empathetic, and inclusive, aiming to create a welcoming environment for all families, including multicultural and immigrant families. I am committed to promoting equitable practices and closing mental health opportunity gaps. I believe in the importance of therapeutic interventions and approaches rooted in empathy, kindness, love, and respect for all human beings. My therapeutic approach seeks to be collaborative – I hope to accompany you in your search for wholeness, meaning, and authenticity, and encourage healthy coping and distress tolerance skills to resolve difficult feelings. My practice incorporates evidence-based practices to ensure holistic and individualized care for individuals. I have a particular interest in working with Latino/a/x communities, individuals, and families as I share a bi-cultural and bilingual lived experience. My practice seeks to bridge cultural gaps between individuals and communities and the world of mental health.

Confidentiality

All information shared during therapy sessions is confidential and will not be disclosed without your written consent, except in cases where disclosure is required by law (e.g., risk of harm to self or others, abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult). I am committed to maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and privacy in all aspects of my practice.

Techniques

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT): This is an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers. It helps to address the unique needs of children with PTSD symptoms, depression, behavior problems, and other difficulties related to traumatic life experiences.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): DBT is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that emphasizes the psychosocial aspects of treatment. It focuses on teaching clients skills to cope with stress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others. It is particularly effective for individuals with borderline personality disorder, suicidal behavior, and self-harm.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT is a form of psychotherapy that uses acceptance and mindfulness strategies, together with commitment and behavior change strategies, to increase psychological flexibility. It helps clients to accept what is out of their personal control and commit to action that improves and enriches their life.

Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT): ABFT is a manualized, empirically supported family therapy model specifically designed to target family and individual processes associated with adolescent depression and suicide. It aims to repair interpersonal ruptures and rebuild an emotionally protective, secure-based parent-child relationship.

Promoting First Relationships (PFR): PFR is an evidence-based program that helps caregivers understand and respond to the social and emotional needs of young children. It focuses on building strong, healthy relationships between caregivers and children to support the child's social and emotional development.

These techniques are implemented to provide comprehensive and effective therapeutic services to youth and their families, ensuring that the interventions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

Focus

I offer transformational psychotherapy tailored to the local community's needs, serving adults, couples, children, and teens. My methods include play therapy for kids, communication strategies for couples, and empathetic dialogue for adults, all centered on patient outcomes and care.
 

Education

University of Washington (2017 – 2019):

• Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW): Maria Pia Cortes earned her MSW from the University of Washington, where she gained extensive knowledge and skills in social work practices, including evidence-based therapeutic techniques and social justice advocacy.

Montessori Center for Teacher Education (2015 – 2016):

• Early Childhood Educator Credential: Maria Pia Cortes obtained her credential in early childhood education, which equipped her with the skills to work with young children and their families, focusing on their social and emotional development.

University of Washington Bothell (2012 – 2014):

• Bachelor's Degree in Community Psychology: Maria Pia Cortes completed her undergraduate studies in community psychology, where she developed a strong foundation in understanding the psychological and social factors that influence community well-being.

• Minor in Education: Alongside her major, she pursued a minor in education, which provided her with additional insights into educational practices and policies.

• Annual Dean’s List Recipient: Maria Pia Cortes consistently demonstrated academic excellence, earning a place on the Dean's List each year.

• Member of the Latino/a Student Union: She actively participated in the Latino/a Student Union, where she engaged in activities and initiatives that supported the Latinx community.

Maria Pia Cortes's educational background reflects her commitment to social work, early childhood education, and community psychology, providing her with a well-rounded foundation to support her professional practice.

License & Certification

Social Work Independent Clinical License: Maria Pia Cortes holds an Independent Clinical Social Work license with the license number #LW61398168

• Certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Promoting First Relationships: She is certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Promoting First Relationships

Approved Clinical Supervision: She has completed 15 hours of Approved Clinical Supervision training from Cascadia Training for Professional Development