Hi, I'm Maria Rivadeneira
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida. I specialize in helping children, adolescents, and families navigate the challenges of ADHD. I have approximately 12 years of experience in the mental health field.
I chose to become a mental health professional because connecting with and serving others fulfills my soul and gives me a sense of purpose. I believe in cooperation, solidarity, and promoting the well-being of individuals, families, and our communities.
I believe children with ADHD have tremendous creativity, curiosity, energy, and potential. I focus on their interests and guide therapy through enjoyable, active, and engaging sessions where children and teens feel accepted, cared for, and understood.
Nice to meet you!
My approach does not focus exclusively on ADHD symptoms, but on each child's unique features, personality, and individual reality. I strive to provide a warm, safe, and confidential space where they can be themselves while building a trusting therapeutic relationship. At the same time, I help them understand how their brains work and develop practical skills they can apply in their everyday lives.
On a personal level, I love being a mom, playing with and caring for my son, and being a wife, taking care of my home, and cooking. I deeply value life, nature, animals, and spending quality time with my family. I'm also a chess player and instructor, and a former Ecuadorian National Youth Chess Champion.
I have specialized training in Therapeutic Chess, Neuropsychology, and Psychotherapy, which has expanded my perspective on play-based resources that can be incorporated into ADHD treatment. Originally from Ecuador, I provide therapy services in both English and Spanish.
Credentials:
Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida
Master of Science in Mental Health Psychology (University of Liverpool, UK)
Professional Certificate in Psychotherapy with Groups, Families and Couples
Professional Certificate in Clinical Neuropsychology
Specialist in Therapeutic Chess