SOMERVILLE, NJ, January 27, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Maria L. Rodriguez, PhD, has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Dr. Rodriguez has established a distinguished career as a PhD Licensed Professional Counselor and an advocate for immigrant families. As the chief executive officer and president of her private practice at the Care Counseling Center of Bridgewater since 2016, Dr. Rodriguez provides clinical supervision for counselors and oversees administration and marketing efforts. Her expertise working with immigrant families has earned her widespread recognition and respect in her field. Prior to her current role, she served as an adjunct professor in the women's and gender studies department and psychology department at William Paterson University of New Jersey from 2002 to 2020. Between 2016 and 2018, Dr. Rodriguez was the deputy chief of staff for community outreach at Assemblyman Joe Danielsen's Legislative District Office.

Dr. Rodriguez also founded the Future Knowledge Center for Women Inc., where she served as president from 2006 to 2016, concurrently holding the position of chief operating officer at The Future Project until 2016. Her teaching experience includes a stint as a course instructor at Raritan Valley Community College in 2015 and Passaic County Community College from 2003 to 2006. Dr. Rodriguez's early career involved direct patient care as a crisis counselor at Clara Mass Hospital from 2010 to 2012, a behavioral health associate at St. Mary's General Hospital from 2001 to 2003, and a case manager and rape counselor at the Passaic County Women's Center from 1996 to 2001. Her commitment to professional development is reflected in her active membership with several industry-related organizations, including the Latinos Psychological Association of New Jersey, the National Women's Studies Association and the New Jersey Psychological Association.

Building upon her professional achievements, Dr. Rodriguez's academic background laid the foundation for her success. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy in general psychology from Capella University in 2010, a Master of Arts in clinical psychology from William Paterson University of New Jersey, and a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and women's studies. Dr. Rodriguez is also a licensed professional counselor in the State of New Jersey. She attributes much of her success to word-of-mouth referrals by providing exemplary service to families who come for support.

Among her numerous accolades, Dr. Rodriguez has been recognized with awards such as induction into the Business Hall of Fame, being named Best in Somerville, New Jersey, for two consecutive years and Woman of the Year, and receiving the Unsung Shero/Hero Award. Additionally, she is a co-author of "Success Redefined," published in 2024.

In addition to her professional endeavors, Dr. Rodriguez is dedicated to expanding her impact on families by planning to open new centers, hire more counselors and grow her practice further. This goal aligns with her deep-seated commitment to helping families navigate challenges -- a commitment profoundly shaped by personal experiences such as supporting a family through grief. The resilience and progress she witnessed in that family have had an enduring influence on Dr. Rodriguez's perspective on life and her approach to counseling. Dr. Rodriguez continues to maintain connections with those she has helped over the years, drawing inspiration from their journeys as she looks toward future expansions that will enable her to assist even more individuals and families seeking guidance and support through life's most challenging moments.

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