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Maria Spitz, PhD

Maria Spitz, PhD

she/her

Licensed in NY #16263
Insurances Accepted: Cigna/Evernorth, Aetna, UMR for Mount Sinai
Speaks spanish
My clients report a better understanding of themselves, their goals, aspirations, and their capabilities.

My Therapy Style

I tend to use a dynamic set of modalities. I often lean toward Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Motivational Interviewing. My work is heavily mindfulness-based.

I am a seasoned Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience. I have extensive experience treating individuals with OCD, depression, anxiety, panic, phobias, relationship and job performance issues, grief, and loss. I use evidence-based treatment modalities. My approach is eclectic. I tailor each session to the needs of my client. I am a certified Yoga instructor with special populations (eg. trauma, OCD), use breath work to help clients understand the mind-body connection (MBCT) and assist them on a path of improved functioning and better quality of life.

I teach my clients skills to overcome obstacles that are preventing them from obtaining optimal performance, self-satisfaction, and peace of mind. Skills that will not only enhance functioning but ultimately improve one's quality of life. My Clients report a better understanding of themselves, their goals, aspirations, and their capabilities.

In therapy, I will provide you with a safe space to share your feelings. I will provide you with insight into your behavior and insight into the difficulties that you are confronting. We will work together, as a team, to get you where you want to be in life.

Education & Training

PhD - Clinical Psychology, New School for Social Research

Get to Know Me

Why did you become a mental health professional?

Human behavior and the motivation that inspires this behavior have been an interest since undergrad. I began working on research to understand human behavior and motivation. This work inspired me to dig deeper into the theories and literature behind the human psyche and ways to treat behaviors that are unacceptable to self, behaviors that are causing distress, difficulty, and obstacles.

What are your interests outside of work?

I am an avid runner, yogi, Pilates enthusiast (Lagree Method) animal lover (chihuahuas, cats), and enjoy swimming on sunny days and drinking matcha green tea lattes.

What is one thing you do daily that supports your well-being?

I exercise daily even if it is a 20-minute walk. Exercise helps me clear my mind, increase my energy, and increase confidence in myself. Movement is important to me and something I crave both physically and emotionally.

Favorite organization/non-profit?

Epilepsy Foundation of Metropolitan NY (EFMNY) - This organization helps individuals who suffer from both mental illness and Epilepsy. They provide services to help individuals increase their quality of life and teach them skills to manage both their medical and mental health issues. The EFMNY welcomes everyone regardless of their resources, cultural, sexuality, education, or immigration status.

How do you recharge?

I enjoy being a "couch potato" on weekend evenings. I read, bake cookies, watch Netflix, or FaceTime friends.

Do you have any pets?

I had a little tiny teacup chihuahua, his name was Tito. He was my best friend for 14 years. He was so small I could fit him in my bag and sneak him into movies w/me, where we shared popcorn. He picked me at the breeder. Tito walked over to me and sat on my lap as I was looking at the 20+ chihuahuas for sale. He was the smallest Chi there but was a fearless little guy.

He crossed over to the rainbow in 2020 and although I miss him dearly I know I will see him again someday.