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Maria Spitz
About
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience helping people heal and grow. Based in New York and Rhode Island, I specialize in working with individuals navigating OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, relationship challenges, grief, and life transitions. What drives me most as a provider is helping clients reclaim their lives and find lasting relief through compassionate, evidence-based care.I draw from a wide range of therapies—including ERP, EMDR, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, solution-focused, holistic, and psychodynamic approaches—so that each session is tailored to the unique needs of the person in front of me. My style is warm and collaborative, and I aim to create a safe space where clients feel supported and empowered.In addition to my clinical training, I am a certified yoga instructor and often incorporate breath work and mind–body practices to help clients strengthen the connection between physical and emotional well-being. My goal is to guide each individual toward improved functioning, resilience, and a better quality of life.
I was drawn to working with autistic and neurodivergent clients because I have seen firsthand how often their needs are misunderstood or overlooked in traditional systems. Early in my training, I worked with children and adults whose unique ways of thinking and experiencing the world were too often labeled as “problems” rather than strengths. That experience inspired me to specialize in evidence-based, compassionate care that recognizes each person’s individuality and provides them with tools to thrive.
In my work, I focus on seeing each client through the lens of their strengths, not their limitations. I believe that every person brings unique abilities, perspectives, and resilience to the table, and therapy is most effective when those qualities are acknowledged and built upon. My role is not to “fix” but to partner with clients in discovering strategies that harness what already makes them strong.For neurodivergent clients in particular, I take an affirming approach—celebrating the individuality and creativity that come with different ways of thinking and experiencing the world. By incorporating evidence-based therapies with compassion and flexibility, I help clients leverage their strengths to meet challenges and move toward their goals.As a bilingual provider and member of professional affinity groups committed to health equity, I am also mindful of cultural context and systemic barriers. This allows me to provide care that is both affirming and culturally responsive, ensuring clients feel seen, respected, and empowered.
