Most people looking for therapy have survived several losses and traumatic experiences by the time they reach adulthood. Mariska will help you define what healing looks like for you - maybe you want closer relationships, better boundaries, more motivation, a good night’s sleep, pain relief, or feeling more present in your daily life.

Mariska’s life approach is rooted in self-compassion. She began learning its power years ago as a musician, director, and curriculum developer in Southern California, where she worked with K-12 students, women's choirs, and the LA & Long Beach Opera houses. While getting her bachelor’s of music (BM) at HARTT Conservatory and doing grad work in Amherst at UMass, she was music director at a church in Avon, CT.

After teaching for 25 years, Mariska was ready to help people differently. She received her master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Certification in Trauma Counseling from Antioch University, New England. She is a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP) and is training to become a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP).

Mariska’s professional interests as a therapist revolve around sexuality, helping individuals impacted by trauma and loss, and serving the LGBTQIA+ community at large. While she does sex therapy with clients of all backgrounds, as a lesbian, Mariska is passionate about helping bring congruency with one’s sexual self and trauma healing within her queer community. In addition to working with individuals and couples, she is passionate about group therapy work.

Mariska practices through an existential DBT lens, focusing on self-compassion and creating a life worth living. Her style integrates neuroscience, trauma research, humor, and mindfulness practices. She also incorporates innovative treatments, such as driving anxiety therapy and expressive arts.

Mariska loves woodworking and growing succulents. If meeting with her virtually, you will likely meet Sigmund and Suzie Q, who love stopping by and purring in the camera.