Hola, I’m Dra. Terry

I’m Dr. Maria Teresa — but you can call me Terry. I’m a proud primera generación daughter of Mexican immigrants, academic coach, and mentor for women navigating higher education, healing, and life transitions.

This space was created for nosotras — mujeres who carry big dreams, juggle family expectations, and refuse to give up. Whether you’re deep in schoolwork, dreaming of your own practice, or figuring it out one day at a time — you belong here.

You don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to walk beside you with tools, encouragement, and comunidad every step of the way.

My Mission

My Story

Credentials & Background

Who I Support

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

My mission is to guide and support First-Gen students in building confidence, structure, and self-belief so they can achieve academic success and pursue opportunities — without fear.

I believe in creating a calm, supportive space where students feel seen, heard, and guided toward their goals — one step at a time.

I know what it’s like to be the first — and to do it without a roadmap. That’s why I’m here: to walk alongside you as you create your own.

I was born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2, and while my journey has included physical limitations, it has never limited my determination. Against all odds — and with mucho corazón — I earned a Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy and published my dissertation in 2024 titled “Motherhood and Gangs: The Experience of Latino Mothers in Los Angeles Street Gangs.”

Like many First-Gen students, I grew up in a low-income community where representation was rare. I didn’t have mentors or role models who looked like me or understood my experience — and that’s exactly why I do this work today.

When I hired my first coach toward the end of my doctoral degree, everything changed. I realized how powerful it was to have someone who believed in me, guided me with structure, and reminded me that I could finish. Now, I want to be that person for others — especially for the next generation of students who need someone in their corner.

  • Psy.D. in Marriage & Family Therapy (Published dissertation, 2024)

  • Academic Coach specializing in APA writing, study skills, and confidence-building

  • Experienced tutor and mentor for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students

  • Advocate for first-generation and disabled professionals in higher education

  • First-generation college and graduate students

  • Students pursuing psychology, counseling, and MFT degrees

  • Early-career professionals learning to navigate their next steps

  • Women seeking structure, motivation, and clarity in their academic journey

My coaching isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress. Together, we build a personalized plan that balances structure with grace. Whether it’s overcoming imposter syndrome, building study systems, or developing academic confidence, I guide you with a mix of accountability, calm energy, and real talk.

Sessions are structured like guided conversations — honest, supportive, and empowering.

My Approach


You deserve guidance, confidence, and a plan that fits your life.
Let’s start with a focused Clarity Session to define your next steps and structure your goals.

Learn more