Maria Hess

Maria’s extraordinary life began in Montebello, CA. She attended Chico State University, from which she graduated in 1981 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology; as well as Social Welfare and Corrections. She earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Sonoma Institute in 1983; and her PhD in East-West Psychology from California Institute of Integral Studies in 2000. Obtaining her Marriage and Family Therapist license in 1985, she began a private practice providing long-term, in-depth therapy, as well as supervision, mentorship, and consultation to community agencies. She spent a summer in Switzerland studying with Martin Kalf, incorporating Jungian sand tray into her therapeutic work. Her clinical practice reflected her integrated and wholistic approach.  

Maria’s teaching career began at Sonoma State University in 1983. She also taught courses at other Bay Area universities. Maria received numerous awards/grants while at SSU. She was proudest of the Excellence in Teaching Award (2003); and the Student Ambassador’s Award for Teaching Excellence in 2005 and 2006. While a rigorous academic, Maria had a unique ability to train her students in the theoretical aspects of clinical psychology while vividly infusing the primary importance of a compassionate heart in education and healing. After 33 years, she retired from SSU in 2016.

Ever aware of the larger context, Maria was inspired to create a training program to meet the need for culturally skilled therapists. In 2006 she directed her enthusiastic energy to the development of Humanidad Therapy and Education Services. With its focus on expanding community mental health resources to the Latinx community, it obtained its non-profit status in 2013.  In addition to serving as Director, Maria provided trauma-informed education and care to students and teachers in primary and secondary schools in Santa Rosa. Humanidad became her heart family. 

Maria was a Tibetan Buddhist practitioner. Ever dedicated to benefiting others, in 2002 she trekked to the Buddhist Khari nunnery in the Himalayas, located near the Mt. Everest base-camp, as part of a fund-raising mission. 

As well as Maria’s love of education and service, she enjoyed music, dance, and art.  

Maria’s exuberant, humorous, caring spirit touched so many in the community. During her final days, the steady flow of visitors most frequently commented on how Maria had helped them make profound changes in their lives. 

Maria is pre-deceased by her husband, David Hess. She is survived by her cherished partner of many years, Doug Tortorigi.

Planning is underway for a celebration of her life; tentative date: 8/28/21. Updated information will be posted:  http://humanidadtherapy.org   In lieu of flowers, please consider performing a good deed and offering it on Maria’s behalf.