Maria Kastoras, LCSW

If you struggle with anxiety and grew up with emotionally distant parents or have been in unhealthy relationships, you’ve found a place to be seen and heard. I help my clients untangle old patterns, regulate anxious thoughts, and reconnect with the parts of themselves that deserve care and attention. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded — with hope to remind you that therapy can be a safe, even a little enjoyable, space to explore feelings, and that you can find a more consistent calm in everyday life. You don't have to be alone with what you are experiencing. Living with Complex Trauma Can Look Like: -Chronic anxiety or constant overthinking - People pleasing, suppressing your feelings to keep the peace - Thoughts of not wanting to live - Always being “on” to make sure you prepare yourself for the worst - Difficulty trusting yourself or others - Struggles with expressing emotions or setting boundaries - A sense of emptiness, self-doubt, or “something missing” - Difficulty regulating emotions - Chronic feelings of shame - Repeating old patterns in the workplace or in new relationships Causes of Complex Trauma Include: - Childhood Abuse - Chronic Neglect - Exposure to Domestic Violence or being in a controlling relationship - Bullying or long term humiliation - Being raised by a parent with a severe mental illness or substance abuse - A sense of emptiness, self-doubt, or “something missing” - Living with unpredictable or violent caregivers or partners - Growing up in war zones or violent neighborhoods - Poverty with chronic exposure to danger - Living in institutional settings - Chronic lack of emotional support or validation - Workplace harassment What I Offer - Hope and a way to heal what you've been through - Practical tools for anxiety, self-compassion, and healthier relationships - Support for anxiety, overthinking, and nervous system overwhelm - Healing from childhood experiences with emotionally distant or unavailable parents - Healing from unhealthy relationships - Guidance to untangle old patterns, set boundaries, and build self-compassion - Ways to invite safety and empowerment back into your life My Approach - Collaborative: We work together to find what truly helps you feel better - Compassionate: A safe, judgment-free space to explore your thoughts and emotions - Grounded: Techniques that regulate your nervous system and help you feel steady - Realistic: Growth at a pace that respects your experiences About me I'm a licensed clinical social worker with a focus on clinical care and therapy. I graduated with my Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago in the Windy City. I have over 20 years of experience supporting clients in managing anxiety, navigating challenging relationships, and healing from the impacts of emotionally unavailable parents or partners. In those 20 years, I have also worked extensively with parent coaching, so that parents can begin to understand and unlearn parenting messages passed down from generations before. Outside of therapy, I enjoy day trips to Bay Area beaches. I also find peace in walking on trails amongst the Redwoods. As as San Francisco native, I also pay my respects to the City that raised me, by checking out new museum exhibits and restaurants. I like to bring a sense of curiosity and humor into my work whenever it feels right. If you opt for video sessions and I am in my home office, you might catch a glimpse of my fluffy and feisty cat. If you’re ready to explore healing and reconnecting with yourself, I invite you to reach out. I’d be honored to join you on your journey.