Maria Dover
LMFT, MS
Maria is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Connecticut in 2006 and her Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from East Carolina University in 2008. During her clinical training, she gained experience in both medical and traditional mental health settings, where she developed a strong commitment to integrating mind–body approaches in treatment. Maria believes that emotional, relational, spiritual, and physical well-being are deeply interconnected and that meaningful change occurs when the whole person is considered within the context of their lived experience.
Maria primarily practices Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), helping clients identify core emotions, recognize negative interaction patterns, and cultivate healthier, more secure communication dynamics. She works with couples, families, and individuals through a systems-oriented lens, recognizing that people both influence and are influenced by the relational systems around them. This perspective allows her to support clients in creating lasting, relationally grounded change.
Maria has a particular interest in working with first responders and their families. Inspired by her personal experience as the spouse of a frontline healthcare professional, she understands the unique stressors associated with high-demand service roles. She supports clients in processing the emotional weight of their professional responsibilities while navigating transitions into their roles as partners, parents, children, and friends. Maria views seeking therapy as an act of courage and considers it a privilege to walk alongside clients as they pursue growth, resilience, and meaningful change.
maria.dover@valorcounselingcenter.com
*Currently Private Pay until insurance credentialing is complete (Cigna, Aetna, BCBS - most plans).