Maria Garibaldi, M. Ed.

Post Adoption Case Manager

As a Post Adoption Case Manager, Maria Garibaldi supports post adoptive families and help them access therapy, respite care, and community resources. Maria graduated from Rice University with an undergraduate degree in psychology, and then completed a master’s degree in counseling from the University of Houston.

Why I started with Arms Wide Adoption Services:

I started working for Arms Wide (back then it was Spaulding for Children) in 2007 as a Foster Care and Adoption Coordinator.  I loved working with a diverse group of families and witnessing their love and dedication to their children. After three years, I left Arms Wide in order to pursue an opportunity working with children who were developmentally delayed. When a position opened up in Post Adoption, I went back to Arms Wide, and felt like I was coming home to family. I reluctantly left again in 2013 due to my husband’s job transfer to Mexico. Since moving back to Houston, I am very excited and grateful for the opportunity to be back at Arms Wide.

My favorite part about my job:

I love connecting with my families and being their advocate. It takes a village, and I am glad I get to take on a supportive role for our families as they navigate the challenges of parenthood.

My least favorite part:

The circumstances that led to the children’s placement in foster care.

More about me:

My sister, Connie, is also a Post Adoption Case Manager. Although she likes to tell people that I am her much older sister, our age difference is only 14 months! Our parents are originally from Argentina, so we both speak Spanish and carry Argentine culture in our hearts.  I have three small children, so my days are joyful and my nights are sleepless.

Ask me about:

Mexico and Brazil. I had amazing experiences living in these beautiful countries. I also enjoy speaking Portuguese with whoever is patient enough to practice with me!