Maria Frassinelli Sierra, LCSW, LICSW
Connecticut clinical social worker for grief and transitions
- 25 years experience
- Medical social work
- Grief and cancer focus
About Maria Frassinelli Sierra
Maria Frassinelli Sierra is a licensed clinical social worker based in Connecticut with 25 years of professional experience. She holds the credentials LCSW and LICSW, clinical social work licenses that reflect advanced training and years of practice in therapeutic and medical social work. Maria’s practice centers on supporting people and families facing serious health challenges, with particular expertise in helping those navigating a cancer diagnosis and the complex emotional needs that arise alongside illness.
She brings substantial experience in end-of-life care, grief, and loss, guiding clients through bereavement and the transitions that accompany major life changes. Maria also works with individuals on issues related to self-esteem, stress and anxiety, compassion fatigue, and career or executive coaching. Her practice includes LGBTQ-focused work and addresses concerns across the lifespan, such as aging and caregiver stress, chronic illness and pain, fertility and pregnancy-related challenges, and questions of life purpose.
Maria approaches each person as the expert of their own story, aiming to partner with clients to identify strengths, lighten burdens, and explore practical strategies for coping. She supports people as they adapt to change and move toward goals with empathy, respect, and a collaborative spirit.
She brings substantial experience in end-of-life care, grief, and loss, guiding clients through bereavement and the transitions that accompany major life changes. Maria also works with individuals on issues related to self-esteem, stress and anxiety, compassion fatigue, and career or executive coaching. Her practice includes LGBTQ-focused work and addresses concerns across the lifespan, such as aging and caregiver stress, chronic illness and pain, fertility and pregnancy-related challenges, and questions of life purpose.
Maria approaches each person as the expert of their own story, aiming to partner with clients to identify strengths, lighten burdens, and explore practical strategies for coping. She supports people as they adapt to change and move toward goals with empathy, respect, and a collaborative spirit.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Also Specializes In
Additional Focus Areas
Aging and geriatric issuesCancerCaregiver issues and stressChronic pain, illness, and disabilityCommunication problemsCoping with natural or human-caused disasterFertility issuesForgivenessGuilt and shameHIV / AIDSHospice and end-of-life counselingLife purposeMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesPregnancy and childbirthSelf-loveSexualityVisually impairedWomen's issuesWorkplace issues
Therapeutic Approach
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Existential Therapy Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Maria Frassinelli Sierra have?
Maria Frassinelli Sierra has 25 years of professional experience.
Is Maria Frassinelli Sierra a licensed therapist?
Yes. She holds the credentials LCSW and LICSW. Her license details are CT LCSW 6023 and MA LICSW LICSW127851.
In which languages does Maria Frassinelli Sierra provide therapy?
Maria provides therapy in English.
Where is Maria Frassinelli Sierra located?
She is located in Connecticut.
How can I work with Maria Frassinelli Sierra as my therapist?
You can work with Maria through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Maria Frassinelli Sierra work with international clients?
Maria Frassinelli Sierra does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Maria Frassinelli Sierra cost?
Costs can vary based on your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started is quick. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire to help match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care
Maria integrates evidence-informed approaches to help clients address emotional and practical challenges. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on helping people accept difficult thoughts and feelings while clarifying personal values and taking committed action - it can be useful for anxiety, stress, and life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) emphasizes identifying and shifting unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns to reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning; it is often effective for anxiety, stress, and mood-related concerns. Client-Centered Therapy centers the person’s own experience by providing empathic listening and support so clients can explore goals, build self-understanding, and draw on their strengths.Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Maria works collaboratively with clients and licensed professionals to determine which methods best fit an individual’s needs, goals, and preferences, and she adapts strategies as those needs evolve.
Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can occur by video calls, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging - making it easier to fit care into busy schedules, to engage from home, or to maintain continuity during life changes. These options support ongoing access to a therapist’s guidance while accommodating different communication styles and logistical needs.
Ready to start therapy with Maria Frassinelli Sierra?
Take the first step toward a better you.