I’m Maria (and Ria too!), a Connection & Boundaries Practitioner. Also a curious human who has often struggled a bit connecting with people.

Trauma, bullying, and being raised in a conservative religious community made my experiences of connection a contrast of extremes while I was growing up.

I’ve spent most of my adult life working on healing from those experiences, unlearning unhealthy patterns and learning to connect better (I continue to do so). During this process, I gained a degree in community work, and trained as a mindfulness teacher and consent practitioner. For the past 5 years, I’ve supported NHS patients and college students with their physical and mental health.

A few times in my life, I’ve wished a service like this existed. A space where it was safe to explore the blocks I was experiencing in terms of connection and community building. A moment of the human touch I needed – with clear communication and limits. A space where I felt accepted and energised to go back into the world and try again.

Now, I want to use my experience and knowledge to help you navigate similar challenges. Yes, it’s OK to want better connections – we all deserve them, and the world desperately needs them.