Dr. Gertz was born in Colombia and raised in South Florida from the early age of 3. She is fully bilingual and provides services in both English and Spanish. In 1996, Dr. Gertz completed a bachelor of science in psychology from the University of Florida, a master’s in psychology in 1999, and subsequently, a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology in 2002.
Dr. Gertz completed her clinical training in New York through an APA-accredited Internship and Postdoctoral Fellowship with the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Following her fellowship year, she went on to complete a one-year Intensive Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Program at the prestigious William Alanson White Institute in New York City.
In 2006, Dr. Gertz returned to South Florida becoming additionally licensed to practice psychology in Florida as well as New York. She currently provides services face-to-face in Fort Lauderdale and online services throughout both states. She has worked in a myriad of settings such as community mental health clinics, inpatient units, psychiatric hospitals, correctional settings, and private practice. Dr. Gertz is a Certified Forensic Examiner and trained in Family Law divorce medication in addition to her clinical practice. After more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field, Dr. Gertz brings all of this knowledge to you where she only treats a small group of clients in her boutique-style practice.
Dr. Gertz’s emphasis is to take a very individualized approach to treat each of her clients. Her treatment modalities are eclectic using a range of tools from Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC), and somatic therapies to tackle several areas in need of care. For those seeking Life Coaching, Dr. Gertz also provides the same level of commitment. Whether it is psychotherapy or Life Coaching you are seeking, you will find tailored care to help you reach your relationship and personal development goals.
Stay tuned for Trauma-Informed Yoga &
Walk and Talk Therapy with Dr. Gertz!
In her spare time, Dr. Gertz cares for her 2 young children, plays tennis, and is an active member of the Charity Guild of Fort Lauderdale which gives back to our community by way of the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center and Kids in Distress.
“I am really looking forward to being part of your growth and transformation, big or small. I am here to guide you, cheer you on, and celebrate your successes!”-Dr. Maria Gertz