maria quijano, LPC (she/her/ella)
Child and Family Therapy Rooted in Connection, Identity, and Emotional Support
My work is grounded in the belief that healing begins in a space where people feel safe enough to slow down, reflect, and make sense of what they’ve been carrying. In sessions, I bring a calm, patient, and steady presence. Families often describe me as soothing and easy to talk to, especially in moments that feel overwhelming or emotionally charged.
My work is grounded in the belief that healing begins in a space where people feel safe enough to slow down, reflect, and make sense of what they’ve been carrying. In sessions, I bring a calm, patient, and steady presence. Families often describe me as soothing and easy to talk to, especially in moments that feel overwhelming or emotionally charged.
How Can Therapy Help Children With Anxiety and Emotional Dysregulation?
My approach is person-centered and family systems-oriented, meaning I look at each person within the context of their relationships, environment, and lived experiences. With children, I often use creative, developmentally appropriate ways to help them express emotions, build coping skills, and better understand their internal world. I also work closely with caregivers, helping families shift patterns of interaction so children feel supported rather than blamed or overwhelmed in the process.
What Support Is Available for Immigrant and First-Generation Families?
I have extensive experience in community mental health, including foster care, crisis services (SASS), and school-based therapy in predominantly Latino/a immigrant communities. I am especially passionate about supporting immigrants and first-generation youth navigating identity, family expectations, and societal pressures.
How Does Family Therapy Improve Communication and Connection?
I frequently support clients experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, emotional dysregulation, depression, PTSD, behavioral challenges, and family conflict. My work also includes supporting survivors of domestic violence and intimate partner violence as they rebuild safety and stability in their lives.
As a first-generation Latina, I bring a lived understanding of cultural identity and the complexity of navigating multiple roles and expectations. I also have personal experience with a significant medical event, which informs my grounded, steady approach to supporting clients navigating major life transitions, health-related stressors, and shifts in meaning, identity, or direction that can sometimes follow those experiences.
We may be a good fit if you’re looking for support with:
Children struggling with anxiety, anger, or emotional overwhelm
Families navigating conflict or communication challenges
Immigrant and first-generation youth exploring identity and belonging
Clients experiencing trauma or PTSD symptoms
Children with social or school-related difficulties
Families impacted by domestic or interpersonal violence
Maria Quijano works with children, families, and individuals who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional stress, trauma, or family conflict, helping them build emotional awareness, coping skills, and stronger relationships. She also collaborates closely with caregivers and offers bilingual in-person therapy in Oak Park and virtual sessions across Illinois.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
What is it like to work with you?
Sessions with me are often described as calm, supportive, and grounding. I try to create a space where clients can slow down, make sense of what they’re feeling, and explore what’s happening beneath the surface without judgment or pressure.
Who do you work best with?
I work best with children ages 5+, individuals, and families navigating anxiety, emotional dysregulation, trauma, social challenges, and family conflict. I’m especially experienced with immigrant and first-generation clients exploring identity and cultural stress.
What is your approach with children?
I meet children at their developmental level and use creative, skills-based, and expressive approaches to help them understand and manage emotions. I also involve caregivers to strengthen communication and reduce conflict at home.
Do you include parents in sessions?
Yes. Family work is an important part of my practice. I collaborate with caregivers to help shift patterns at home so children feel supported, understood, and less overwhelmed by family dynamics.
Do you offer bilingual therapy?
Yes. I provide therapy in both English and Spanish (Se habla español), allowing clients and families to express themselves in the language they feel most comfortable using.
What should I expect in the first session?
The first session focuses on understanding your concerns, your goals, and what life has been feeling like recently. It’s also a space to begin building comfort and connection so future sessions feel collaborative and supportive.