Maria Cognata

MSW • Master Social Worker

In-person only

About

Maria Cognata brings a holistic approach to therapy, considering the intricate interplay of biology, upbringing, culture, systems, and trauma in shaping thoughts and behaviors. As a bilingual therapist fluent in both English and Spanish, Maria offers a unique perspective that bridges cultural gaps and provides inclusive care to a diverse clientele.

Specializing in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), generalized anxiety, and health anxiety, Maria's expertise spans across various age groups, from children as young as 8 to adults. Her approach is particularly effective for kids struggling with OCD and repetitive negative thoughts, as well as young adults and adults grappling with contamination, symmetry/balance, and existential OCD.

Maria's educational background is as diverse as her therapeutic approach. She earned her bachelor's degree in sociology and international studies from Saint Louis University, followed by a master's degree in social work with a concentration in clinical mental health from the Brown School at Washington University in Saint Louis. Her clinical internship at the Multicultural Counseling and Research Center, coupled with her involvement in the Casa de Salud Mental Health Collaborative, has equipped her with a deep understanding of multicultural counseling needs.

Drawing from a theoretical framework of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Maria incorporates tools and strategies from Exposure and Response Prevention, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. This eclectic approach allows her to tailor treatment plans to each client's unique needs, providing concrete tools and strategies to help them achieve their goals.

Maria's therapeutic style is characterized by openness, non-judgment, and empathy. She creates a safe space where clients can bring their authentic selves to sessions, utilizing a strengths-based perspective that recognizes and builds upon each individual's inherent capabilities. Maria views therapy as a collaborative process, acknowledging clients as the experts of their own lives while offering professional guidance and support. Her solution-focused approach aims to equip clients with practical tools for managing distress both in and outside of therapy, celebrating progress along the journey towards better mental health.

Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and International Studies
  • Master of Social Work

Specialties & Expertise

Specializations

  • Anxiety
  • Child or Adolescent
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

State Licenses

  • Missouri

Race, Gender & Sexual Sensitivities

  • LGBTQ+ Allied

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Locations

Anxiety Specialists of St. Louis - Hampton Avenue Office
3250 Hampton Ave, Suite 200
St. Louis, MO 63139

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