Maria is a family therapist with a special interest in working with melanated communities to address issues around the interface between emotional wellbeing and culture. She also has an interest in working with minoritized communities in identifying how different social aspects of their lives can intersect and create vulnerabilities that can be misinterpreted in social and professional interactions.

Maria currently works in a Regeneration team where she is helping the team to bring their whole selves into work. In a wider context, she contributes to the Organisations Diversity and Inclusion agenda by leading on the organisations inclusive mentoring programme with external partners. Maria holds a master’s degree in Family & Systemic Psychotherapy, a BSc in Mental Health Nursing (Addictions) & a DipHE Nursing. Maria is a member of the She Is You Youth Leadership Board. Sheisyou.co.uk

“The most painful story is the one that has not been heard” Maya Angelou