Hello, I'm Mariana.
About me“Like the dragonfly, I believe we are continually invited to adapt, grow, and discover new ways of being, without losing who we are.”
I'm so glad you're here.
I believe creativity is much more than making art. It is a way of listening to ourselves, making sense of our experiences, and discovering new possibilities when words alone are not enough.
Whether you are navigating a life transition, adjusting to a new country, or simply longing to reconnect with yourself, I hope this can be a space where you feel seen, supported, and free to explore at your own pace.
What Led Me Here
I've always been fascinated by people and their stories, which is why I initially studied Journalism. At the same time, I was deeply drawn to colours, images, and the quiet language of creativity. Throughout my life, creating became a way of making sense of where I was, navigating difficult moments, and listening to the messages carried by my dreams.
My professional journey then took me across Europe and Africa, working on international migration projects grounded in a human rights-based approach. Living across cultures, learning new languages, and eventually finding myself in Austria deepened my understanding of change, identity, belonging, and what it means to create a sense of home.
Those experiences shaped not only my professional path but also the way I meet people today: with curiosity, openness, and a deep respect for each person's unique story.
Looking back, it seems almost inevitable that these two paths—my fascination with people and my trust in the creative process—would eventually meet.
Discovering Expressive Arts Therapy felt less like finding a new profession and more like recognising a language I had been speaking all along.
This journey eventually led me to train as an Austrian Certified Psychosocial Counsellor and Certified Expressive Arts Creative Trainer.
How I Work
Today, I accompany people through life's transitions by combining psychosocial counselling with expressive arts.
Whether you are adapting to life in a new country, exploring questions of identity and belonging, navigating personal or professional change, or simply longing to reconnect with yourself, I offer a gentle, reflective space where you can pause, explore, and discover new perspectives.
Our work together may involve conversation, images, colour, writing, movement, or other creative processes, always guided by your needs and your own pace. No artistic experience is required; creativity is a human capacity we all share.
The Philosophy Behind My Work
Carl Gustav Jung's understanding of the human psyche continues to inspire my work, particularly his idea of individuation—the lifelong process of becoming more fully ourselves.
From this perspective, creativity is far more than self-expression. Images, dreams, symbols, and imagination can reveal aspects of our inner world that words alone cannot always reach. By engaging with them, we begin a dialogue with ourselves that can foster greater awareness, resilience, and authenticity.
I don't see counselling as providing answers. Rather, I see it as creating a safe and supportive space where your own insights can emerge, and where creativity becomes a bridge between your inner world and everyday life.
If this resonates with you, I would be delighted to accompany you on your journey.