We recently connected with Maria Winters and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Maria thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How’s you first get into your field – what was your first job in this field?

At the age of 23, having recently arrived in the country a few months earlier as a transfer student from my home country of Venezuela to pursue a degree in Psychology, I found myself residing in Boston, MA and attending Northeastern University. During my daily walks to class, I routinely passed by a mental health clinic, which piqued my curiosity.

I began contemplating the idea of working there to gain real-world skills. The thought excited me but doubts soon crept in—I’d convince myself that such a place likely hired only “experts” and that my English proficiency might not be sufficient.

One day, while passing the clinic again, I said to myself: “I’m going in! The worst they can say is no.” And so, I entered and approached the front desk, expressing my interest in volunteering as a Psychology student. Despite initial confusion, the staff agreed to assist me. The executive director overheard and approached me. I reiterated my status as a Psychology student eager to learn from their field. After a moment’s pause, he said, “Come back in 2 days, and we’ll talk.”

Two days later, I returned and waited in the lobby. The director came out, inviting me into his office. He expressed surprise and appreciation for my follow-up, citing it as a testament to my commitment, a trait often lacking in others.

In the following weeks, I was assigned to shadow and assist one of their psychologists in conducting support groups for Spanish-speaking families. Their program involved visiting schools, offering resources, and teaching skills to enhance mental health and connections within the family. I actively engaged in multidisciplinary meetings, interacting with various mental health providers and spent time absorbing a wealth of knowledge. Grateful for the opportunity, I remained open to learning and demonstrated my enthusiasm for the profession, earning their appreciation for my reliability and responsibility.

This marked my inaugural experience to strengthen my resume. Moreover, the professionals I encountered graciously provided recommendation letters that supported many subsequent professional pursuits. Reflecting on my younger self, I take pride in embracing risks, inquiring, and showcasing my capabilities.

Maria, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Maryland, holding credentials as a National Certified Counselor and an approved Supervisor in clinical professional counseling by the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. With over 18 years of experience, I’ve dedicated myself to supporting adults and adolescents across diverse settings, including community clinics, foster care, juvenile detention, and private practice.

For the past 11+ years, I have been conducting emergency and safety risk evaluations for patients of all ages within an Emergency Department. Additionally, I facilitate group therapy for adults and serve as Adjunct Faculty, teaching Psychology courses at a community college. My expertise has led to appearances as a guest expert on TV station Telemundo 44 and radio station El Zol 107.9.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, followed by a master’s in counseling psychology at Argosy University in Washington, DC, completing my studies in 2006.

I am the founder and owner of The Coaching Therapist, LLC, a practice that focuses on providing workshops, education, and training on mental and emotional health. My primary goal is to normalize conversations about mental health, fostering an environment where emotional wellness is universally appreciated and prioritized.

Recently, I embarked on a podcast venture titled “Wellness Rebranded” alongside two fellow health professionals. Our aim is to advocate genuine wellness from three distinct healing perspectives, moving away from hustle culture, diet culture, and toxic positivity.

In 2024, I am introducing an “Emotional Fitness Studio” to my community, offering monthly in-person workshops, some in English and some in Spanish, at an affordable rate akin to a morning latte (only $10 per event). This endeavor stems from my belief in empowering the community with essential life tools.

No power point presentations or yawn inducing seminars here. A variety of experts will dish out interactive, experiential, and wisdom-packed sessions that will prove that taking care of our mental health doesn’t have to be a tough nut to crack.

I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Asking for help, both personally and professionally, has been crucial. Burnout is real and common among helping professionals, and it taught me that I did not have to do everything alone. I realized that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness but a strength in itself.

I discovered a wealth of professionals eager to share their resources, advice, and insights. Engaging in various networking groups introduced me to like-minded individuals striving for success in their respective fields. The key lies in remaining open to learning from one another and extending support in any possible way.

I grasped the concept of progress over perfection and the vital importance of prioritizing my own needs and mental health. Understanding that my capacity to assist others relies on my well-being shifted my focus. After all, I cannot adequately serve others when running on empty.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

My most effective strategy has been collaborating with fellow business owners. By identifying common ground and joining our efforts, we’ve delivered top-notch services to our clients. Offering clients various options demonstrates our commitment to meeting their needs, and these collaborations show the value of community support and openness.

Clients truly appreciate the array of choices available when seeking services. These partnerships not only benefit our businesses but also highlight the significance of mutual support within the community.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thecoachingtherapist.com
• Instagram: coaching_therapist
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MWcoachingtherapy?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-winters-98183766?trk=contact-info

Image Credits
Bethany Swain. Maureen Porto Studios. Ivan Dupont. Mastermind Place.