Life never goes as planned. It’s full of surprises both wonderful and difficult. Sometimes painful past experiences inhibit our current lives. We all try the best we can to cope but often we come to a crossroads: suffer in silence or seek and receive skillful help that allows for change.

I create a non-judgmental, empathic, safe environment to help people understand themselves and the pressures that the larger culture imposes on them. This allows people to explore what they want from their lives and their relationships. I have a good sense of humor which is helpful when facing the heaviness that suffering brings.

We’ll not just look at problems in your life but see how those problems get you to think negatively about yourself. We’ll work together to help you gain new communication skills, develop an understanding of self-limiting or self-punishing thoughts and behaviors and replace them with healthier alternatives.

I have been a practicing psychotherapist since 1986. I see adults and adolescent individuals, couples and families in my practice. My approach is interactive and collaborative, it takes into consideration the past as it effects the present. I tailor my work to your needs and together we gently explore your life, your hopes and desires at your pace. I believe each person has the capacity for growth and healing and I have respect and compassion for all the difficult places we can find ourselves in.

If you’d like to make an appointment please call me at (510) 658-8225.

Maria Sutter is a licensed Marriage, Family Therapist providing psychotherapy, counseling and consultation to individuals, couples, families, young adults, and adolescents. She practices in the East Bay of the San Francisco Bay Area. Her office is conveniently located on Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley California. She is close to North Oakland and the University of California Berkeley. Piedmont, Kensington, El Cerrito, Albany, Lafayette, Orinda, Moraga, Lamorinda, Walnut Creek in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties and other major bay area cities. She specialized in addictions, LGBTQ, young adults and teens.