Maria Felix-Ortiz, PhD

I have specialized training in substance abuse treatment, and in managing anxiety and mood disorders. I worked with many college students, people struggling with end-of-life issues, law enforcement/first responders, trans* and other people in LGBTIQ+ communities. I earned a PhD from UCLA’s clinical psychology program, worked as a clinical psychology fellow at Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute and Zuckerberg General Hospital in San Francisco. I am Puerto Rican, using she/her pronouns; hablo espanol. THERAPY In our work together, we can use guided relaxation, question and change the beliefs and thinking habits that sabotage your wellness and success, and work on writing a new story to help you better cope with past trauma. We can also use variations of ecotherapy as appropriate. WOMEN'S RECOVERY GROUP Tuesday evenings at 7:30-9 pm beginning T 11/25. This is an online 70-minute therapy group for women recovering from alcohol and other drug use. The group goal is to support recovery from alcohol and drug use, and help women meet their life goals in a safe therapeutic space. We’ll focus on triggers and coping with cravings and crises; all levels of recovery are welcome. The group will use both cognitive-behavioral and narrative therapy to help women revise how they think about everyday situations and their “herstory.” The first four meetings will focus on coping with the holidays (e.g., family estrangement, custody arrangements, connecting with children and families, loneliness, building support and coping strategies, setting limits, exploring and setting new goals, and other relevant topics). Abstinence is encouraged but not required since relapses are a normal part of recovery. Women can work the Twelve Steps here or not; this group will welcome atheists, agnostics as well as people of faith. A diversity of women is welcome and group standards will guide groupwork to ensure that it does not retraumatize participants. There is a free initial consultation to review group standards and obtain an informed consent from the group member. RESEARCH & CONSULTATION As a former mental health columnist and professor, I have given many community presentations and offered workshops on addiction and a variety of mental health issues. I've also consulted with organizations and governments to assist them in their customer service and program evaluation projects.