Maria Prieto, BACP

Maria Prieto helps people who are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, trauma, grief or depression. She also supports those coping with big life changes and related concerns like guilt, shame and problems with communication. Maria speaks English and Spanish and practises in the United Kingdom.

Maria is a BACP counsellor with nine years of experience. She aims to make sessions straightforward and down to earth. Her approach is to listen first and then work together to find practical ways forward.

In sessions she focuses on building trust and a calm space for talking. Conversations are honest and paced to each person. Maria will help you name what is happening and try small steps to reduce distress.

She has worked with people affected by trauma, domestic violence and sexual assault, and with those who experience dissociation or challenges after service in the armed forces. Maria also supports exploration of life purpose and self-worth when people feel stuck or unsure.

Maria offers a collaborative style. She checks in about goals and adapts plans over time. The emphasis is on usable strategies you can try between sessions, and on noticing small changes that add up.

Approaches and how online therapy can help

Maria uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on practical change and emotional processing. One common approach is structured talking work that helps people make sense of troubling memories and reduce constant worry by breaking problems into smaller steps. This approach suits anxiety, stress and day-to-day coping.

Another helpful method focuses on coping strategies for trauma and grief. It teaches grounding and pacing so a person can face difficult feelings without becoming overwhelmed, and it supports gradual rebuilding of routine and self-care after loss or assault.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss your needs, goals and preferences and then try methods that fit you. Plans are reviewed regularly and adjusted if something does not feel helpful.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat and text-based messaging. Video allows face-to-face conversation when tone and expression matter. Phone sessions work well when internet bandwidth is limited or a shorter check-in is needed. Live chat and messaging suit people who prefer writing or need flexible, brief contact. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, family and travel commitments while keeping continuity of care.