
Maria Laso, M.S., LAPC
Bilingual Psychotherapist
Pronouns: She/Her/Ella

Positionality: I identify as a Latinx bilingual cishet woman. I immigrated from Quito, Ecuador when I was 5 years old, and was raised in a bilingual household in metro-Atlanta ever since! As a native Spanish speaker, I can provide therapy in either or both languages based on the needs of my clients.
My Background & Approach:
I understand that starting therapy can feel intimidating and vulnerable—it takes immense courage to seek support, especially from someone you don’t yet know. My goal is to demystify and destigmatize the therapy process so we can walk together toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. In our work, we’ll explore the challenges you’re facing and identify what might be keeping you stuck. You’ll be met with warmth, curiosity, and compassion as we co-create a space that honors your full, intersectional self and empowers you to live more authentically.
I work with individuals across the lifespan, and I especially enjoy supporting children, teens, and families. For young children, I use play therapy as a developmentally appropriate approach that allows them to express feelings, process difficult experiences, and build coping skills through play. With teens and families, I offer a space to navigate identity development, life transitions, and family dynamics with empathy and cultural responsiveness. I also collaborate with parents and caregivers to strengthen relationships and promote emotional connection.
In addition to individual and family therapy, I work with couples navigating communication difficulties, disconnection, and relationship challenges. I provide a supportive and affirming environment for partners of all backgrounds and relationship configurations to explore their needs, repair trust, and strengthen their bond.
My practice is rooted in a culturally responsive, anti-oppressive framework that affirms the lived experiences of BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and others with marginalized identities. I’m particularly passionate about supporting clients who are navigating intergenerational trauma, racial trauma, and systemic oppression. I also deeply value working with men and masculine-identified individuals, especially those who have internalized messages that discourage vulnerability and emotional expression. Creating space for these clients to heal and grow has been one of the most meaningful parts of my work.
Together, we’ll create a space where your experiences are seen and your story is honored—where you feel empowered to grow into the fullest, most liberated version of yourself.
Theoretical & Clinical Orientation:
My therapeutic approach is grounded in Person-Centered theory, with humanistic and existential influences. I believe in meeting clients where they are, building authentic relationships, and empowering them to define and pursue their own goals. By integrating these approaches, I strive to understand you as a whole person—not a checklist of symptoms, but someone shaped by your relationships, environment, and lived experiences.
I incorporate Attachment Theory into our work, recognizing that healthy, secure connections are essential for emotional well-being. One of my guiding beliefs is: “You can’t move north if you don’t know which way north is.” Exploring your past attachment experiences helps us better understand your relational patterns—and chart a path toward more fulfilling connections.
I also integrate Sand Tray Therapy into my work with both children and adults. This expressive, non-verbal approach allows clients to explore emotions, trauma, and identity through symbolic play and storytelling. Whether used with kids processing big feelings or adults uncovering deeper patterns, Sand Tray offers a powerful way to access insight, healing, and self-expression.
As an immigrant and Latinx woman, I understand the complex challenges faced by BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. My practice is rooted in social justice, and I welcome conversations about how power, privilege, and systemic oppression show up in our lives—and even in the therapy room. I believe that acknowledging both our shared identities and our differences deepens the work and builds trust.
Areas of Expertise:
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Trauma/PTSD
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EMDR
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Anxiety & Depression
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Perfectionism
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Racial, Ethnic & Cultural Identity
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Life Transitions
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Immigration Trauma
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Latinx Mental Health
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Men's Issues
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Work/Life Balance
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Existential Concerns
Rates:
Initial Assessment (Intake):
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Full Fee: $215
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Sliding Scale: $175-$200
Individual Therapy Session:
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Full Fee: $175
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Sliding Scale: $150 - $165
Couples & Family Therapy Session:
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Full Fee: $185
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Sliding Scale: $160 - $175
Locations Served:
In Person in Atlanta
Online/Virtual therapy for residents of Georgia
Who I Work With:
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Adults (18+)
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Children (4+) & Teens
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Individuals
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Couples
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Families

Outside of Work:
You’ll always find me with my Great Pyrenees, Sammy, by my side, craving and searching for the best Thai food, and testing out a new cycling or pilates class! My friends and family mean everything to me, and I love anything involving tennis, being an active book club member, being in the mountains, and baking.

Credentials
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Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia (GA License No. APC008886)
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Working under the direction of Dr. Sophia Aguirre Ph.D., CGP, FAGPA and the supervision of Dr. Tyler Wilkinson, Ph.D., in pursuit of licensure as Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia
Academic Training
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M.S. in Clinical Mental Health at Mercer University
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B.S. in Psychology at Kennesaw State University
Professional Service & Membership
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American Counseling Association- ACA
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Chi Sigma Iota Honor Society