Sometimes the careers that our clinicians had before transitioning to a career in mental health help to inform their mental health practice. This was the case with Maria Owens, LCSW, who became a therapist after years working as a hospice social worker supporting patients through the end of life journey. The transition to a therapy practice eventually led her to Rivia Mind.
Today, we shine the clinician spotlight on Maria Owens, whom we recently interviewed about her career and perspectives on mental wellness.
Education & Background
Maria received her Master’s in Social Work from Rutgers University after receiving a Bachelor’s in Psychology from The College of New Jersey. After her master degree, she earned a certificate in palliative care from the CSU Shirley Haynes Institute for Palliative Care. In her years working as a hospice social worker, she helped patients through end-of-life issues such as grief, discomfort, advocacy, communication, and planning.
“I gained professional experience with individuals living with chronic illness and disability as a medical social worker and completed requirements for certification as a brain injury specialist during my work with brain injury survivors,” she describes. Eventually, she made the switch to becoming a therapist.
Specialty & Approach to Therapy
“There are a few reasons why I chose this type of work,” she explains. “I knew early in life that I wanted a meaningful career helping people in some way. I was inspired by the support I received from adults in helping fields, including teachers, counselors, physical therapists, doctors, and social workers.” For instance, while studying psychology in college, a psychiatrist helped her lose weight and become physically healthier with hypnosis.
“That was when I learned firsthand about the power of psychotherapy. I loved my first job in mental health and started thinking about graduate school. I received guidance from colleagues and my psychiatrist who encouraged me to pursue a master’s in social work.”
Maria’s approach to therapy is a holistic and collaborative approach that centers around the client and their needs. She describes her therapy style as: “gentle, compassionate, and eclectic.” So far, she has worked with modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, nutrition and mental health, energy psychology, and trauma work. She has found these techniques and modalities helpful in treating patients across a variety of diagnoses including: anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, trauma and stressor related issues, dissociation, substance use, ADHD, psychosis, borderline personality disorder, physical pain, and illness.
“I feel like the specialties chose me,” she says. “I have a great deal of personal and professional experience with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, disability, illness, and grief. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, and trauma mean the nervous system is dysregulated. …People living with chronic illness and/or disability are often profoundly impacted by dysregulation. Learning to work with the mind and body in therapy may help alleviate mental and physical suffering.”
Joining Rivia Mind
Maria has a long history of work within the field of mental wellness and a diverse range of specialties that makes us here at Rivia Mind lucky to work with her. Of her time here, she says, “The people at Rivia Mind have been so supportive! The company is a great place to work because it encourages learning, positivity, and collaboration.”
Advice To Those New To Therapy
The first thing that Maria recommends to those who are new to therapy is to take pride in that choice. “The decision to invest in your own well-being is definitely something to be proud of!” From there, it’s a matter of finding the right mental health provider.
“Reading the bio should give you some information about a clinician’s background, style, and personality. Try to pick a provider who will be able to give you what you need at this time. You can always make a change if you feel like things aren’t working for you.”
Self-Care For the Clinician
It’s important for everyone to practice self-care, including mental health clinicians. What does that look like for Maria?
“I like to give myself some quiet time in a dim room immediately after work to recharge after being on a screen all day. I might practice some deep breathing, meditation, or do yoga stretches. Then, I put on my comfiest clothes and try to eat a nutritious meal. I work on my skin care routine before bed. Making time for loved ones is also an important part of my self-care.”
Maria is just one of our many skilled and compassionate clinicians who can help you on your mental wellness journey. Want to get started with Rivia Mind? Contact us today to learn more or to book a free 15-minute consultation.
