Pura Vida is a Costa Rican phrase that literally translated means "pure life." The most accurate meaning is "nothing but life." This phrase embodies the words of Jesus in John 10:10 where He said He came so that we may have life and have it in the full. At Pura Vida Psychiatry our goal is to help guide you to a life of abundant wellness and vitality as your highest self.
Conditions Treated
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Anxiety & Depression
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Mood disorders
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Obsessions/compulsions
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Trauma/PTSD
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Stress
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Irritability
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Anger
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Lack of motivation
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Sleep issues related to anxiety or mood
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Self-esteem issues/feelings of worthlessness
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Disturbed body image
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Guilt
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Shame
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Issues with focus/attention
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Phobias
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Relationship issues
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Grief/Loss
Please note, we do not treat severe psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia or symptoms such as suicidality. In these cases, we would refer out to a provider specializing in these areas or an acute care treatment facility depending on the patient's needs.
Methods Used
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Specializing in Mind-body (somatic) therapy
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Nature Therapy
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Narrative Therapy
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Wellness coaching
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Parenting support
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Psychotherapy
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Christian/spiritual counseling
Population Served
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We currently serve the state of Massachusetts via in-person appointments in Hampden, Ma and by telehealth.
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We serve men and women ages 18 to 65 and have a passion for helping others heal from developmental and intergenerational trauma through somatic psychotherapy.
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Symptoms present for a reason. At Pura Vida Psychiatry, we understand that our symptoms are messages that there is something out of harmony in mind, body or spirit. Rather than treat the symptom and try to eliminate it, we look to identify and treat the root cause, so that symptoms are no longer necessary.
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We believe in holistic treatment that recognizes the fact that mind, body, and spirit are inextricably connected. We aim to treat the whole person while also recognizing that the role of the practitioner is to facilitate healing, but that true, lasting healing comes from within oneself and through one's relationship with a higher power.
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We aim to treat from an integrative standpoint, recognizing that while Western, allopathic medicine has its time and place, more conservative, natural and holistic treatment is often the more effective and supportive means to aid in the healing process, leading to lasting wellness.
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We are conservative regarding psychopharmacological treatment, and it is not a primary treatment intervention of this practice. Our goal is to avoid it wherever possible due to potential side effects, and long-term medication reliance. In cases where medication is necessary as part of an integrated treatment plan, conservative prescribing may be warranted. Please note, we DO NOT prescribe any form of controlled substance such as benzodiazepines (i.e., Ativan), or stimulants (i.e., Adderall).
Practice Philosophy
“What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27
"We all have wounds in need of healing. Like the Leonard Cohen song says, "there is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in." Sometimes we need help in finding the broken places and allowing the light to enter."
R. Maryam Maurer, DNP, PMHNP-BC
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