Mariana K. Falconier

Mariana K. Falconier excels in connecting theory and practice in her role as an Associate Professor in the Department of Family Science at the University of Maryland, College Park. With a robust academic background, she earned her master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and her doctorate in Family Studies from the same institution, equipping her with a deep understanding of family dynamics and therapeutic interventions. Her research interests are diverse yet interconnected, focusing on couples' stress, coping mechanisms, economic stress, Latinx couples, and the development and evaluation of programs. Falconier has made significant contributions to the field by developing TOGETHER, an innovative interdisciplinary group program. This program is designed to enhance couples' communication, coping strategies, and financial management skills, reflecting her commitment to translating research into practical solutions that benefit families. Falconier is also a licensed marriage and family therapist in both Maryland and Virginia, which allows her to apply her research insights directly in clinical settings. Her work has been recognized and supported by substantial federal funding, exceeding $11 million, underscoring the impact and importance of her research endeavors. Her dedication to improving the lives of couples, particularly within the Latinx community, is evident in her scholarly work and programmatic initiatives. Through her research, she aims to address the unique challenges faced by couples, especially those related to economic stress, and to develop effective coping strategies that can be widely implemented. In addition to her research and clinical work, Falconier is actively involved in teaching and mentoring students, fostering the next generation of family science professionals. Her ability to integrate academic research with real-world applications makes her a valuable asset to the University of Maryland and the broader field of family science.