Maria Sarina

Maria Sarina is a dedicated mental health advocate with extensive academic credentials, including a BA in Social Psychology/Social Research from the University of Western Sydney, Diplomas in Counselling and Community Services, and Advanced Diplomas in Biblical Studies. She is affiliated with both the ACA College of Supervisors and the ACA College of Christian Counsellors.

Maria currently serves as the Coordinator of Counselling and Care Centre Manager at ACC Marsden Park. She is also the Director and Founder of Friendship Centre Counselling Services, an organisation offering free mental health support through a network of over 700 volunteer counsellors and 50 placement students from leading Australian universities.

With a deep passion for supporting underprivileged individuals and children, Maria has developed an innovative psychoeducational model that has been successfully implemented by Corrective Services NSW to address negative behaviour and support client rehabilitation.

Outside of her professional life, Maria is a devoted wife and mother to six sons, a committed Christian, and enjoys spending time with her pets and tending to her garden.