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 at Northwestern University, then my Masters 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 started 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. I recently became a dual French/American citizen.

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