Dr. Maritere Franco LSP, LMHC
CEO, Clinical Director, Mental Health Counselor and School Psychologist
Phone:
305-946-1373 Ext 402
Email:
Address:
Virtual, FL
License in FL:
Licensed Mental Health Counselor - MH9126
Licensed School Psychologist - SS757
Languages:
English
Spanish
A Bit About Me
Bilingual Licensed School Psychologist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 25 years of experience in Private Practice and providing services in the Miami Dade County Public School System (M-DCPS). In the school system, as a School Psychologist for 25 years, I was involved in program coordination, literacy and early grade reading, education policy and planning, curriculum development, behavior intervention, crisis management, counseling, teacher training, assessment and measurement, data analysis and interpretation. As of last year, in M-DCPS, my new position is a Mental Health Coordinator. I am responsible for providing direct mental health services and coordinating access to different services within the school system and outside in the community as needed for our students.
In Private Practice, I provide therapy for individual, children and adolescent, couple, and family counseling; I conduct psychological testing. As a Behavioral Analyst (ABA), I work with children and adolescents with different psychiatric diagnosis and their families in creating and putting in place a treatment plan to improve emotional and behavioral aspects of their lives.
Educational Background
2010
1996
1991
2010 Doctor of Philosophy (Ph. D.), Specialty: Individual, Marital and Family Counseling - Barry University -Miami, Florida
Educational Specialist (Ed. S.), School Psychology –Florida International University, Miami, Florida
Bachelor of Science, Psychology, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Focus Areas
Depression & Anxiety
Family Counseling
Grief Counseling
Overcoming Life Challenges
More About Me
01
Therapy Style
My therapy style is primarily rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which emphasizes the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Additionally, I integrate elements of mindfulness-based techniques and solution-focused therapy, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs and goals of each client. My aim is to create a supportive and collaborative therapeutic environment where clients feel empowered to explore their concerns, gain insights, and work towards positive change.
02
My Approach
My approach to therapy is characterized by a person-centered, strengths-based perspective. I believe in fostering a warm and empathetic therapeutic relationship, where clients feel heard, understood, and respected. I draw from a variety of evidence-based modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and narrative therapy, among others, to tailor treatment to the individual needs and preferences of each client. My goal is to empower clients to tap into their innate strengths, develop coping strategies, and cultivate resilience as they navigate life's challenges.
03
Interests Outside of Work
Outside of work, I enjoy various interests and hobbies that enrich my life and contribute to my overall well-being. In my free time, you might find me exploring the outdoors, reading a good book, practicing yoga, or trying out new recipes in the kitchen. I also have a passion for meditation, which allow me to unwind and recharge. Engaging in these activities helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance and brings joy and fulfillment to my daily life.