Therapeutic Style: Maricelis is a Licensed Master Level Social Worker (LMSW) with a passion for assisting students as they navigate challenges that occur during all phases of life. She approaches her therapeutic relationships with compassion, self-awareness, intuitive listening and genuine curiosity, encouraging students to feel empowered as the experts in their own lives. She is grounded in psychodynamic theory with a relational, social justice and anti-oppressive lens. Maricelis integrates Internal Family System, Narrative Therapy and Queer Theory into her work and utilizes a student-centered perspective, with the goal of working collaboratively with students to develop a unique and individualized treatment plan.
Professional Interests: Maricelis is committed to serving Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) and members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) community, as well as Transgender and Gender Nonconforming (TGNC) individuals. She has experience doing work around identity formation, gender and sexuality exploration, self-esteem, intergenerational/ancestral trauma, race-based stress and other forms of trauma.
As a Latinx and bilingual (English/Spanish) clinician, Maricelis is dedicated to serving marginalized communities as they explore the ways oppression and systematic racism exacerbate experiences of mental health and identity. Maricelis emphasizes the importance of understanding the ways that intersecting identities impact our experiences in the world, including how they play a role in both treatment and the therapeutic relationship.
Group and Liaison Roles: Maricelis facilitates the LGBTQIAA+ Process Group and is part of the Gender Health and Wellness Team.
Educational Background: As a first-generation college student, Maricelis received an advanced standing master’s degree in clinical social work from Smith College. During her undergraduate studies, she attended Central Connecticut State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in generalist social work practice. In addition to her educational and clinical background, Maricelis has experience working as a case manager for homeless youth.
DEIA Trainings: Gender Identity, Indigenous/First Nation Students, Racial/Ethnic Identity, Religion/Spirituality, Sexual Identity and Socioeconomic Status.
Languages: Spanish
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers/Ella