Clinicians who offer sliding scale payment structures may offer lower or reduced fees based on an individual's ability to pay. Please contact this clinician for more details regarding their fees or sliding scale policy.My Approach to Helping
Hola and Welcome! My name is Madelaine Ford (Maddy) and I am a counselor at Optimal Connections Counseling. I am a bilingual (English-Spanish) therapist, passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges and build stronger relationships. Seeking therapy can be overwhelming and it takes a lot of courage, so I celebrate your decision to start your healing journey.
I was born in the Dominican Republic and moved to the United States at the age of nineteen. I have lived in Florida, Oregon and have now made Arizona home. Having lived in different places and having to navigate a different culture have provided me with a deeper understanding of the challenges we face when we don't have a sense of belonging. I like to bring that understanding into counseling, as I believe that identity, culture, and social justice impact how we experience the world.
My personal journey and professional dedication make me particularly skilled in addressing intergenerational trauma, helping clients break the cycle of pain and build healthier futures. I support my clients in cultivating healthier patterns of thoughts and behaviors through a trauma-informed approach and by implementing techniques that draw from Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
In my work with couples, I like to incorporate both the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, as it provides my clients with the best combination of tools to work on their relationships, uncover the underlying issues, and navigate towards a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.
In my spare time, I enjoy traveling and experiencing new cultures, going to music venues and concerts, hiking, and spending time with my family and my pups. Whether you’re seeking individual or couples counseling, I’m here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth.
