Maria Santiago, MSW, LCSWA

Hi, I’m Maria! I’m a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) who is passionate about helping individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered. I obtained my  Master of Social Work degree from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke in 2026.

Throughout my social work career, I’ve had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in Child Protective Services, Adult Protective Services, medical social work, domestic violence services, and a Child Advocacy Center. These experiences have shaped my understanding of trauma, resilience, family dynamics, and the importance of having someone in your corner during life’s most challenging moments.

My passion for mental health is also deeply rooted in my personal experiences. As a first-generation daughter and the oldest sibling, I understand what it’s like to navigate cultural expectations, family responsibilities, and the pressure of figuring things out along the way. My own journey through motherhood, life transitions, and personal growth has further strengthened my belief that even those who are accustomed to being strong for everyone else deserve support, compassion, and a space to be heard.

I have a special passion for working with first-generation adults, women navigating motherhood and postpartum experiences, individuals experiencing life transitions, and those working through cultural expectations, identity, and complicated family relationships.

My approach to therapy is rooted in empowerment, cultural humility, advocacy, and collaboration. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and my role is not to tell you how to live it, but to walk alongside you as we explore your strengths, navigate challenges, and work toward goals that are meaningful to you. I strive to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where you can show up as yourself without feeling pressured to have everything figured out.

Outside of the therapy room, I’m a wife, mom, and someone who appreciates life’s simple moments. I enjoy spending time with my husband, our children, and our poodle, Arlo. I love a good book, my Kindle, a cup of coffee, and making time for self-care whenever possible.

Above all, I want my clients to know that they don’t have to navigate everything alone. Whether you’re learning to set boundaries, rediscovering yourself beyond the roles you carry, navigating a difficult season, or simply looking for a space to process life’s challenges, I would be honored to walk alongside you.

I believe you can be strong, independent, and capable of caring for others while still deserving care, understanding, and support yourself.

Maria Santiago, MSW, LCSWA