Maria Barraza, MSW, ACSW

Maria Barraza, MSW, ACSW, is a bilingual Spanish-speaking mental health therapist dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals and families. She serves at La Sierra Counseling in Riverside, California, where she offers psychotherapy and counseling services across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, adults, and families. Maria’s practice emphasizes culturally responsive care, creating a supportive environment where clients feel understood and empowered to achieve mental wellness.

With extensive experience in outpatient mental health programs, community-based services, foster agencies, and hospital settings, Maria has developed expertise in addressing a wide range of challenges. Her areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, trauma resulting from neglect or abuse, grief and loss, life adjustments, substance use issues, and LGBTQIA+ related concerns. She integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with empathy and cultural sensitivity to help clients navigate complex emotional and psychological experiences.

Maria earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) from California Baptist University and her Bachelor of Arts in Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies from California State University-Dominguez Hills. At La Sierra Counseling, she continues to advance her professional practice while advocating for mental health awareness, delivering personalized care that supports meaningful, lasting growth and resilience in the clients she serves.

• California Baptist University

• MSW
• ACSW

• NASW