we are all emotional creatures.

Whether or not we feel connected to or positively about them, emotions are information. We often spend so much time fearing them, being overwhelmed by them, and shaming ourselves for having them; Yet our emotions are working hard to protect us by asserting our essential needs and desires. Of course, this is a logical interpretation to experiences that can feel so visceral and physical, and which can sometimes lead to detrimental interactions. So I recommend taking time to feel, without shame, before making any decisions aimed at "resolving" discomfort.

Through recognizing the value and risks of our reactions and building more compassionate relationships with our emotions, bodies, minds, and those around us, we can process grief & pain and allow our emotions to guide us in creating a more intentional, meaningful existence. To do this deeply, we cannot ignore how mental health is impacted by our whole health, the multiple cultures that have shaped us, and the systems within which we exist.

Respect your feelings and give them space to be, first. Then, figure out what to do next.

Maria Swanson, LMHC

Hello and welcome!

I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Massachusetts and the creator of Emotional Creatures private practice.

My approach reinforces building a non-judgmental mindset and using language as a tool to understand and shape reality as we see it. This extends to how we process and own our emotions. I emphasize with clients the importance of building intentional and genuine connections through what feels safe, fun, and meaningful, and I use this as a guide in my own life and work. We’ll practice this together and make sure you can adapt and extend this to your own life outside of counseling.

Counseling works well as a mutual, collaborative process through which we each give attention and energy to your mental health. I use relational, collaborative, queer, and narrative therapy approaches to build a supportive and unique connection with each of my clients. This connection is critical to help us both build enough trust to comfortably share our deeper wisdoms about life and health.

I look forward to hearing from you if these approaches resonates with you! Please schedule a brief consultation appointment with me to learn more about the work I do and how I can adjust it to your situation.

Clinical interests

  • anger, jealousy, insecurity

  • anxiety & overwhelm

  • consumption problems

  • effects of discrimination & prejudice

  • existential depression

  • identity development

  • navigating change, life transitions, & adjustment

  • neurodivergence, autism, adhd

  • queer & neurodiverse experiences

  • relationship with the body

  • socialization & culture

  • sustainability

counseling trajectory

Counseling with me is typically long-term (1+ years) with an aim to rebuild perspective and life narratives that support sustainable and adaptable well-being. This includes working through traumatic, existential, and cultural emotional wounds.

I do also enjoy supporting those working on focused & defined short-term projects whether you are a new, current, or past client, depending on availability and my capabilities otherwise. We can pre-define our work into a given timeline, or end when you feel good to go without sessions (including gradually tapering session frequency).

I like to co-create treatment plans, using language and terms that speak to you. I can make recommendations for the type and length of counseling based on what you share with me, and we can continue to collaborate on this throughout our time together. Regardless of the exact details of counseling, I will support you to create space to settle into change processes and to find relief and catharsis along the way.