Maria Sullivan LCSW

I remember a very specific afternoon in 8th grade. The bell rang and I scurried outside to make my way home. I looked up at these large, defined, white-grey clouds in the sky, and the sun was peeking through - just enough to feel warm. I stopped in the middle of the sidewalk and froze suddenly. At that moment I was thinking (and feeling) about my family and the challenges they had been going through; I had a realization about the impact that others' pain and suffering had on me. Leading up to this moment, I had increasingly become more aware of and engulfed in, the pain that others around me were experiencing. I felt people around me yearning for a way to feel better and feel connected... to heal. So, I decided that I wanted and needed to become someone who helps people (and in turn help myself) feel seen/heard, supported, and cared for. You are not alone. Together, we heal.

Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl is a book I have read numerous times because it was impossible to put down - it impacted me a lot. I felt a huge sense of urgency to approach my life and work with the utmost gratitude and appreciation for what I have, rather than focusing on what I think I don't have.

I believe the best way to stay personally fulfilled as well as supportive of others, is to be my most authentic self, portraying honesty and transparency at all times. I see people as equals, and in the therapy space, we are just that. I will continue to uphold my role of fostering positive connections and hold a safe space for people to heal and learn.

• Pennsylvania, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, CW021420
• New Jersey, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 44SC05978800
• Delaware, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Q1-0011937

I bring extensive experience in outpatient mental health and addiction treatment settings, serving diverse individuals across the lifespan. My work history encompasses individual sessions, family support, and couples counseling. Additionally, I have facilitated group therapy in various roles within both mental health and substance use settings.  One of my significant accomplishments was creating and implementing an evidence-based Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program with a team of clinicians. Although originally developed for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), DBT has proven effective for a wide range of emotional and psychological issues. Through this program, I had the privilege of helping clients gain essential skills to manage their emotions, improve their relationships, and enhance their overall quality of life.