I believe we all deserve a space to feel heard and understood.

I believe my job is to be here for you, to be completely attuned, compassionate, nonjudgmental and curious.

Sometimes it’s nice to know a little about your therapist, though, so here’s some info about me and my background…

I have always been a curious and introspective person — wondering why we are the way we are. An observer. Someone who takes things in for a long time, thinks about them, then comes up with ideas. I love good friends, good humor, taking trips, reading, nature, perusing quaint little shops. Chai latte is my drink of choice.

I grew up in the Tristate area, attended high school in Cincinnati, got my undergraduate degree in Journalism at Northwestern University, then my Masters in Clinical Psychology at Saybrook University in San Francisco.

I moved to Australia and then California where I lived for 15 years before returning to Cincinnati in 2015. I worked in group practice before opening my own private practice 2019. When the pandemic hit, I — like many therapists — moved my work online. I love what I do, and, though I never would have chosen to provide therapy online in the beginning, I see now how seamlessly we end up accomplishing the same “feel” and work. My clients have asked to continue using Zoom for therapy, and I think it’s a great option.

Recently I spent a year and a half living in Japan where I continued to offer telehealth while acquiring more experience with forms of mental and emotional wellness. I am always reading and looking for what helps people — wherever they may be, or wherever they may be from. Traveling has been a big part of what helps me keep the lens wide. In 2024, I became a dual French/American citizen and speak French, so I’m able to accommodate sessions in French.

I am an LGBTQIA-affirming therapist and passionate about supporting women, people of color, and immigrants acculturating to the United States. Due to the extreme shortage of affordable mental health services, I am excited to offer pro bono therapy at Santa Maria Community Services to staff working on the front lines with immigrant communities.

Of course, life too has shaped the work I do, informed by my children, extended family and friends and the inevitable losses, joys and realities I’ve experienced that keep me grounded and curious. I do my own work too, which is important.

I look forward to hopefully meeting you and finding that connection between therapist and client that creates meaningful change. Send me an email if you’d like to chat! contact@mariabertrandtherapy.com