Mariana Ricci’s interest for psychology began at age 17 during her very first therapy session, fascinated by the intricate ways of the mind and how introspection and analysis could help us confront conflicting emotions, heal, and grow. That session planted a seed that would grow into a lifelong passion: helping people untangle their inner struggles and embrace their authentic selves.
Now a registered psychologist in Sydney, Mariana, brings not just professional expertise, but lived experience. As a migrant woman from Latin America, she understands the challenges of uprooting one’s life — the loneliness, the cultural shifts, the struggle to hold onto identity in a new country. “I know what it’s like to feel disconnected,” she says. “That’s why I believe in the importance of strengthening the mind by rediscovering yourself and reconnecting with your core values.”
Healing Beyond Quick Fixes
Mariana practices psychodynamic psychology — an approach that goes beyond short-term relief. She believes lasting change comes from understanding the underlying beliefs and patterns of behaviours shaping our lives.
Her sessions aren’t just about “talking it out.” Instead, she works with clients to explore the roots of their struggles — from relationship breakdowns to anxiety, depression, domestic violence, and personality challenges — and offers tools to rebuild from within. For Spanish speaking clients, she brings a unique advantage: therapy in their mother tongue, paired with a shared cultural understanding.
Clara’s Story: From Pressure Cooker to Peace
One of Mariana’s patients, “Clara” (name changed for confidentiality), a stay-at-home mother of three, seemed to have it all on the outside: a stable family, a comfortable home, a supportive husband. But inside, she felt like a pressure cooker ready to explode. The simmering resentment and anger she carried threatened her relationships — and her sense of self.
Through therapy, Clara uncovered the roots of her rage in childhood patterns: the demand to always be a “good girl” under the shadow of a critical father and a silent mother. In Mariana’s safe space, Clara began to rewrite her story. She learned to set boundaries, speak up, and reconnect with her husband and children from a place of authenticity rather than resentment.
Today, Clara feels like herself again — not just a wife, not just a mother, but a whole person with her own voice and identity. Stories like these, Mariana says, are what keep her committed: “The real transformation is when clients learn to understand their inner dialogue, embrace who they are, and redirect their lives toward their values.”
Breaking Stigma, Building Community
In Australia, Mariana has noticed lingering stigma around mental health. “Many still think seeing a psychologist means something is ‘wrong’ with you,” she explains. She works to break these misconceptions, reminding clients that therapy isn’t a sign of weakness but of courage.
To make therapy accessible and safe, Mariana offers strictly private sessions — no crowded waiting rooms, no chance of bumping into familiar faces. “It’s just me and my client, one at a time,” she says. Confidentiality and trust are cornerstones of her practice.
Beyond her clinic, Mariana is beginning to engage with Sydney’s multicultural communities, attending cultural and health events, networking with GPs and colleagues, and building visibility through word of mouth. She dreams of one day establishing a wellness hub for women, where psychology works hand in hand with other wellbeing services to support holistic healing.
A Therapist Who’s Walked the Path
For Mariana, psychology is more than a career. It’s a vocation rooted in empathy, cultural connection, and her own personal journey. Having sat in both chairs — as patient and psychologist — she offers clients not just strategies but understanding. Her vision is long-term: a ripple effect where each empowered individual passes resilience
and healing onto families, friends, and future generations. “If one person learns how to live
authentically and with resilience, they can inspire others to do the same. That’s how
healthier, happier communities are built,” she says.
About Mariana Ricci
Mariana Ricci is a registered psychologist offering therapy in English and Spanish, with a
focus on relationships, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, and personal growth. She
provides confidential one-on-one sessions via telehealth and plans to expand into face-to-face
sessions soon.