She/her

Cognitive Behaviour Therapist/ Autism Educator

Background ?

Maria is an autistic adhder who lives in Gisborne 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 spent her time in training and development, which led her to her special interest in training others. 

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 Fortnite and going for walks to catch Pokemon Go. 

Therapeutic Approach & Demographic ????

Although Maria is open to seeing most clients, she particularly enjoys supporting adolescent and emerging adults. Using current evidence-based research, Maria uses a cognitive behaviour approach with an emphasis on it being adapted to autistic individuals. Her approach includes intergrating sensory awareness and knowledge into therapeutic work to support and empower her clients. Maria also specialises in 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 a: 

• Master of Counselling

• Graduate Diploma of Youth Mental Health

• Bachelor of Psychological Science

• Certificate IV in Training & Assessing 

• Certificate IV in Youth Justice 

To book with Maria, head to www.gentlesensory.com