Maria Mercedes Giron-cerna

Maria Mercedes Giron-Cerna is a seasoned marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with thirty years of experience as a bilingual and bicultural therapist. Her qualifications allow her to effectively work with families, couples, and individuals across a diverse spectrum of psychological needs. Specializing in children and teens facing conduct disorders, Maria also focuses on early childhood challenges, particularly in the areas of failure to thrive (Reactive Attachment Disorder) and is skilled in providing hospice care with a sensitivity to cultural differences, particularly within the Hispanic community. Her expertise extends to children and teens with developmental disorders, including Asperger's syndrome and mild Autism. Maria's rich background in Shamanic Healing—drawing from both Native American and Hispanic traditions—enriches her therapeutic practice. She has demonstrated a commitment to working with the LGBTQ+ community and addressing issues of addiction, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Bipolar Disorders. Having lived and practiced in Costa Rica, she established her own non-profit organization, dedicated to serving children and teens with complex needs. Currently, she is in the process of developing a non-profit center aimed at providing comprehensive support for children and teens, including those with Asperger's syndrome. Maria’s lifelong dedication to understanding bilingual and bicultural issues, coupled with her extensive experience in meeting the unique needs of families, including those in nuclear or foster care situations with a focus on adopted children, highlights her compassionate and effective approach to therapy.