Maia Bellavia

I am a graduate student intern currently pursuing a master’s in social work from The University Of South Florida. I identify as a lesbian, white and Choctaw Native American. I acknowledge my privileges as a cisgender, able-bodied, white-passing intern provider and welcome open conversations/feedback from those whose life experiences are different from mine to continue my education in allyship.

I have 5 years of experience working with various communities in the mental health field such as homelessness, transitional housing, street outreach, and substance recovery. I am excited to broaden my practice to individuals and couples looking for tools and a safe space to explore sex and sexuality, romantic, family and social relationships.

After ending a 20-year hetero-marriage and coming out as lesbian in my 40’s, I understand the challenges that can arise in finding your identity and how life changes can create feelings of isolation from family, community, and a loss of self.

I work from a heart centered holistic mental health perspective to best support and serve my clients. I am passionate about holding space for people in their most vulnerable moments. I provide a caring, warm and welcoming space for people to be heard, seen, supported, and loved fully for who they are wherever they are on their journey.

My aim is to develop trust and create a space with you, where you feel safe and supported to be who you are through navigating life’s challenges.