Maura Darrow

Maura is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Oakland, CA. Maura specializes in helping clients through harmful addictions, complex trauma and PTSD, and overwhelming depression or anxiety. She has over 10 years of experience working with clients who struggle to manage their daily emotions, leaving them feeling exhausted, disconnected from others, and frustrated with themselves. This can further exacerbate unhealthy behaviors, leading to self-medication, toxic relationships, or risky behaviors. Maura helps her clients to develop the tools they need to feel comfortable and balanced as they navigate their lives.

Maura’s approach to therapy begins with her warm and encouraging demeanor. She is a trauma-informed therapist who strives to create a safe, secure environment in each therapy session. She builds a strong sense of trust and rapport with each client so they feel comfortable opening up about their experiences and feelings. As a psychodynamic therapist, she leans on this trusting therapeutic relationship to encourage clients to reflect on their instincts, assumptions, and beliefs. Maura also incorporates elements of mindfulness practices into therapy by introducing clients to meditation, body awareness exercises, or visualizations. Clients also have an opportunity to hone in their personal narrative through narrative therapy.

Maura earned a Master’s degree in Social Work and has previously worked with many clients facing chronic illness, medical trauma, or complex injuries that have changed their lives. She empowers clients to live with a sense of control over their mental health and to embrace their innate courage to make healthy change.