Maria Russo , LCSW, CSW

Maria Russo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and CSW based in Colorado with 25 years of clinical experience helping people move from survival toward greater well-being. She combines formal training - an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Master of Social Work - with years of personal and professional exploration to support clients facing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, relationship and family difficulties, addictions, grief, and life transitions.

Her work emphasizes the regeneration of the human spirit and the development of strengths that sustain change. Maria draws on an integrative set of approaches including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Existential Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy to tailor care to each person’s needs. She helps clients identify patterns that keep them stuck, increase coping and problem-solving skills, and cultivate authenticity, self-esteem, and healthier relationships.

Maria speaks from lived experience as well as professional training, and she aims to guide people toward more peace, joy, and meaning. She believes people are not bad, just wounded, and that healing often comes from integrating painful experiences into a stronger sense of self. Maria offers compassionate, strength-focused support for those seeking deeper change and renewed purpose.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Maria Russo uses several evidence-informed approaches adapted for online work, beginning with Client-Centered Therapy, which centers on the person’s experience and fosters a trusting, empathetic relationship to support self-discovery and growth. This approach is helpful for issues like low self-esteem, relationship concerns, and navigating life changes.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is another core method she uses; it focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and building practical skills to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Existential Therapy complements these techniques by exploring meaning, values, and personal responsibility, which can be especially useful for those facing big life transitions or feelings of emptiness.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Maria works with clients to understand their goals, preferences, and challenges, and together they tailor strategies that fit each person’s needs. That partnership helps ensure therapy feels relevant and effective.

Online therapy offers practical benefits for clients seeking flexibility and accessibility. Sessions can occur by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, allowing people to connect from home, during work breaks, or while traveling. These options make it easier to maintain consistent care and integrate therapeutic work into a busy life.