Maria Watkins, LPC

Maria is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. She is also a Board-Certified Art Therapist. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Creighton University and completed dual master’s degrees in Art Therapy and Clinical Psychology at Emporia State University.

With 30 years of experience, Maria has worked with adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples in schools, community health clinics, and both inpatient and outpatient settings. Her breadth of experience allows her to meet clients where they are, regardless of age or life stage.

Maria is trained in art therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. She integrates these approaches in both in person and Telehealth sessions, tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs. She specializes in using art, play, and creative expression to help clients process emotions, build insight, and strengthen coping skills.

Her clinical experience includes ADHD, trauma, anxiety, depression, attachment concerns, self-esteem, adjustment disorders, grief, anger management, and family issues.

Maria emphasizes the importance of healthy communication and intentional self-care. She embraces her Catholic faith as a source of strength and guidance in supporting each client’s emotional, mental, physical, social, and spiritual growth. Her goal is to help clients move beyond survival and toward genuine growth and thriving.