About Mariel

Hi! I'm in the west suburbs of Chicago and offering one-on-one support/companion work. I'm not a traditional caregiver and I'm not trying to be. I work with older kids and teens (8 and up) who don't respond to typical approaches and perhaps are used to feeling misunderstood. I have a background in early childhood education and a master's in clinical mental health counseling. I worked as a therapist (LPC) for 5 years before deciding that wasn't the best fit. I want to put my education and experience out there, with the caveat that what really shapes how I show up is my lived experience. I'm neurodivergent, been through it myself and I bring a relational, direct and genuinely understanding approach. I will honor the way your child or teen experiences the world. I am kind, easygoing, curious and good at building trust. I focus on connection, honesty and creating space for people to be themselves.