News and Events
We are a compassion-based, spiritually-informed, holistically-minded mental health counseling and holistic services agency. We rely heavily on our fundraising events, community outreach and news about our work to support our mission.
Former News Anchor Liam Martin Delivers Powerful Keynote Address at 2026 Fashion for Compassion
“… For a long time, mental health struggles were things we whispered about. Things we hid. Things we were ashamed of. I want to talk about these things honestly…” These words rang through the packed ballroom at Granite Links in Quincy, Massachusetts shortly after the 8pm hour on Tuesday May 19. The attentive audience had … Read more
Meet the Maker: Karin Monfredo of George & Dino
Sometimes the best businesses start with a simple, relatable problem. For Karin Monfredo — known to her friends as Pixie—it was this: she wanted a bag that could keep up with her life, and actually look good doing it. Not just mom-bag good. Really good. Cool enough that her kids wouldn’t cringe and her husband … Read more
No insurance. No barriers. Just care. 💛That’s what Sara found at Maria Droste Counseling Services
No insurance. No barriers. Just care. 💛 That’s what Sara found at Maria Droste Counseling Services — and it changed the trajectory of her life and her children’s. Fashion for Compassion exists so that cost is never a reason someone goes without support. Join us May 19 at Granite Links and help make care accessible … Read more
May Is Mental Health Awareness Month: A Time to Turn Compassion Into Action
Every May, communities across the United States come together to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month—a national observance that has existed since 1949. Originally established by Mental Health America, the month was created to educate the public about mental health, reduce stigma, and promote access to care. More than 75 years later, the mission remains just … Read more
Walking with Purpose: Karen Donnellan’s Journey for Mental Health
Sometimes a journey is more than miles traveled. Sometimes it is an act of remembrance, love, and hope. In September 2025, Karen Donnellan, a board member of Maria Droste Counseling Services, undertook a remarkable pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago, walking nearly 400 miles from Lisbon, Portugal to Santiago, Spain. Each step was taken in … Read more
Emcee Spotlight: Lisa Donovan — Bringing Heart, Humor, and Connection to Fashion for Compassion
We are thrilled to welcome Lisa Donovan as the emcee for our 2026 Fashion for Compassion event! Lisa’s path to radio is anything but conventional. After a decade in public relations, including roles as Senior Manager of Public Relations for Coach Inc. in New York City and Vice President of Kortenhaus Communications in Boston, Lisa … Read more
Keynote Speaker Spotlight: Liam Martin—Using His Voice to Change the Conversation Around Mental Health
We believe that storytelling has the power to change lives. That’s why we are honored to welcome Liam Martin as this year’s featured speaker at our 2026 Fashion for Compassion event. Liam is an Emmy Award–winning journalist and mental health advocate whose career has been defined by empathy, authenticity, and a commitment to telling meaningful … Read more
Fashion for Compassion Returns — and You Won’t Want to Miss It
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 · 6:00 PM · Granite Links, Quincy, MA Mark your calendars. Fashion for Compassion is back! Dazzling runway looks. Extraordinary stories. A community united behind a cause that has never mattered more. Join Maria Droste Counseling Services on May 19, 2026, 6 pm at the stunning Granite Links in Quincy, MA … Read more
Walking Toward Hope: A Look Back at the 2025 ‘Compassion in Every Step’ Spring Fundraiser
We are overjoyed to reflect on the success of our 2025 Compassion in Every Step spring fundraiser, held on May 14 at Granite Links. This unforgettable evening brought together friends, families, supporters, and advocates-all united by a shared belief in the importance of mental health care for all. Thanks to your generosity, passion, and presence, … Read more
Music for Mental Health Event – A Wonderful Night of Support!
On Friday, we celebrated our second annual Music for Mental Health event at ALBA on 53 in Hanover. Friends and supporters came together for an evening of lively music from the Molly Maguires, delicious food, and great company, helping us raise nearly $6,000 for our mission of providing accessible, compassion-based mental health care. Guests enjoyed … Read more
Articles & Press
Seven Low-Cost Counseling Services Near Boston
(Source: Boston Magazine)
Hundreds Turn Out To Support Maria Droste Counseling Services
(Source: Bill Brett Boston)
Maria Droste in Quincy wins $5,000 grant from
Mass Bankers
(Source: The Patriot Ledger)
Maria Droste Counseling Agency Adds Space and a
New Group
(Source: The Patriot Ledger)
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