Counseling and psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families.
Thank you for considering our practice. My name is Maaike, and I have been licensed as an LCSW in the State of California since 2015. Originally from the Netherlands, I moved to the United States in 2009 after meeting my husband abroad. I am bilingual in Dutch and English.
I have been working in the social services field since 1999 in both the Netherlands and the United States. After graduating with my master’s degree in 2011, I worked as a therapist in community mental health for the next 10 years. Although very rewarding and an excellent place to learn, working in community mental health also revealed the gaps in the system and the challenges of providing the best possible patient care.
Starting ToBeYou Psychotherapy Practice has given me, and all of our therapists, the opportunity to help fill in some of those gaps—allowing us to slow down, take the time, and provide integrative, quality care tailored to our clients’ mental health needs.
My specialization is in trauma-informed care, including EMDR and WET modalities. I am a mom of two young boys and a strong advocate for maternal mental health services and intervention. My husband works as a first responder, which has given me a special connection with the first responder community and their families. I know firsthand the often hidden weight of the badge.
I am happy you made it here today. Let me tell you a bit about myself. Born and raised in Japan, I am bilingual in Japanese and English. I have a special interest in acculturation challenges, which can sometimes appear as relationship issues due to cultural differences or difficulty advocating for yourself at work. I can help you find solutions and develop coping skills so you can live your life to the fullest.
I have many years of experience working with clients from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and with a range of mental health challenges. I use a strength-based, client-centered approach.
My expertise is in trauma treatment. I utilize EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Written Exposure Therapy. Negative life experiences can impact your self-esteem and the way you view the world. I am here to help you process your trauma so you no longer have to live in the past. You are in charge of your healing process, and I will be your guide to empower you on your journey.
Supervised by Saori Kobayashi, LCSW / Maria Lurinks Garcia, LCSW
As a bilingual (Spanish-English) therapist, I’m committed to making mental health services accessible—especially for the Latinx community. I understand how language and culture can be barriers to care, and I strive to offer a welcoming, inclusive environment for people from all backgrounds. I’m passionate about creating a safe, supportive space where individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered on their path toward healing.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I’m especially passionate about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, women, and individuals navigating post-traumatic stress, including domestic violence. My approach is trauma-informed and collaborative, drawing from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, narrative therapy, and strengths-based interventions.
When working with children, I also incorporate play-based strategies to support emotional expression and healing.
I look forward to learning your story and walking alongside you on your journey toward wellness and growth.