Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NJ with over 25+ years of experience in a variety of settings including managing a private practice. I have worked with people from different backgrounds/ages and with a wide variety of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, women's issues, parenting issues, ADHD, acculturation/assimilation issues and life transitions. I believe that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first develop rapport and trust in their relationship. This takes time; however, I will be there with you to achieve that.
Just a little about me, I know what it is like to be in your chair as I myself have been in therapy and I can relate to what you may be feeling/thinking. However, I can definitely say that therapy does help. I have had to deal with my own medical issues, have dealt with the challenges of being a first generation, American born daughter of immigrant parents and have struggled with being the parent of an ADHD child. I have come to learn about myself, laugh, cry and be okay and I can help you to do the same.
In my work I will use several different therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include psychodynamic psychotherapy, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation and solution-focused therapy. An integrated, client strength-based approach can be used as well. I am known for being a caring, sensitive, authentic, reflective and compassionate listener. I believe in an interactive approach, and I will guide you and challenge in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to make the therapy experience genuine, respectful and safe. I believe that you are the master of your story and that you have it within you to do great things and overcome the obstacles that get in your way. I will be there with you on this journey to assist you.
Seeking therapy is not an easy decision to make. I want to commend you for taking the first step for wanting a better life for yourself. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here to support and empower you to identify your goals and achieve them.
I look forward to hearing from you and working with you!
Additional areas of focus: LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Communication problems, Control issues, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Divorce and separation, Family of Origin Issues, Life purpose, Mood disorders , Multicultural Concerns, Postpartum Depression, Prejudice and Discrimination, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Self-love, Women's issues, Workplace issues, Young Adult Issues
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
NJ LCSW 44SC00452200
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Maria Farraye-Biggs. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Maria, hands down, is one of the best therapists I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the last 17 years of seeking help. She’s a great listener, gives great advice and is all around a beautiful human!
Written on Jan 26, 2023 after therapy with Maria for 8 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, and grief
Excellent
Written on Jan 14, 2022 after therapy with Maria for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, relationship issues, and coping with life changes