About Maria V. Higbee, MA,LMFT

 Hello! I’m Maria Higbee, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #115692) based in Lafayette, CA. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from The Wright Institute in Berkeley and have extensive training in clinical psychology. My goal is to support you in overcoming life’s challenges and finding the peace, healing, and balance you need to truly thrive. In addition, as Clinical Director at Bay Area Psychotherapy Institute (BAPTI), I oversee our mission to provide accessible, high-quality therapy while supporting the next generation of mental health providers. 

 I’m deeply committed to building authentic connections with people. My approach is grounded in empathy, understanding, and creating a space where you feel truly seen and supported. I believe that one of my key purposes as a therapist is to serve as a voice for those who may not have support in their personal lives or communities.

As the Clinical Director of Bay Area Psychotherapy Institute (BAPTI), I am proud to be part of an organization dedicated to providing affordable, accessible teletherapy to individuals, children, and families across California. BAPTI serves nearly 300 clients each year while also offering high-quality training and supervision to pre-licensed psychotherapists. Through care rooted in responsiveness and community connection, BAPTI supports both the people we serve and the next generation of mental health providers.

In my practice, I work with individuals of all ages—adolescents, teenagers, adults, and families—helping them navigate struggles and find effective strategies for healing. I specialize in supporting people through anxiety, depression, grief, crisis management, and communication challenges. Together, we’ll explore your emotions, develop coping skills, and help you transform your life.

As a mother, I deeply understand the ups and downs of pregnancy and motherhood. The journey through this transformative period can be both rewarding and challenging, and I am passionate about offering support to those navigating this time. In addition to my general therapeutic services, I offer specialized perinatal support for expectant, new mothers, and parents, helping them manage the emotional and psychological challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood.

My practice is inclusive and affirming, as I work with individuals across all genders, ethnicities, cultures, abilities, bodies, and sexual orientations. I prioritize building a collaborative, relational, and interactive therapeutic experience for each person I work with.

In addition to in-person sessions in Lafayette, I offer convenient remote video therapy for California residents. Whether we meet in person or virtually, you can expect a nurturing, optimistic approach tailored to your unique needs. I’m committed to providing a safe and supportive space where you’ll be both encouraged and challenged to grow and become your best self.

Let’s work together to create the positive change you deserve.