I founded Living Purpose Mental Health Counseling with a deeply held belief: healing becomes possible when people feel seen, understood, and supported in reconnecting with their strength, voice, and sense of purpose. For over two decades, I have helped adults navigate PTSD, complex trauma, childhood and relational wounds, anxiety, and life-altering experiences. Many of my clients are thoughtful, capable people who have spent years holding everything together while privately feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in survival mode. My clinical approach integrates EMDR therapy with IFS-informed parts work and other evidence-based practices. Rather than focusing only on managing symptoms, I help clients understand the experiences and protective patterns beneath them. Our work is collaborative and thoughtfully paced, with the goal of developing greater emotional safety, self-trust, clarity, and freedom. Throughout my career, I have served as a Qualified Mental Health Professional, Clinical Director, and Adjunct Professor. I am a also an EMDR Certified therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Today, I lead and supervise the Living Purpose team, supporting our therapists in becoming thoughtful, culturally responsive, and clinically grounded professionals who provide meaningful care to the communities we serve. My perspective on community, resilience, and culturally informed care is deeply shaped by my East Harlem roots. This foundation continues to guide my commitment to creating spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can access respectful, high-quality mental health care.

Hi! I’m Alexandra—your partner in healing, and growth. When I was little, I used to say I wanted to be a “Feelings Doctor.” I didn’t know exactly what that meant, but I knew I wanted to help people feel better—emotionally and mentally. I started college at 16 and initially pursued pre-med, but I quickly realized that the clinical world wasn’t where I felt most at home. What truly called to me was connecting with people, understanding their stories, and helping them heal from the inside out. I grew up in one of the poorest areas of Colombia, and those early experiences taught me the power of resilience, community, and hope. I saw how vital emotional support is when life gets hard—and that’s what led me to psychology. It gave me the tools to do what I’ve always wanted: walk alongside others as they navigate life’s challenges and rediscover their strength. As a licensed mental health counselor, I specialize in helping people manage anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, and more. I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and I work with children, teens, and adults. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not like yourself, I’m here to help you find clarity, confidence, and calm. Outside of therapy, I’m a runner (yes, I run for fun!), a guitar enthusiast, and a sci-fi lover—currently reading Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler. I love dancing with friends, cooking while video chatting with my family back home, and traveling whenever I can. These moments of connection—whether across a kitchen or across continents—remind me of the joy and strength we find in togetherness. I speak both English and Spanish fluently, and I’m passionate about creating a safe, inclusive space where you can be fully yourself. Healing isn’t always easy—but you don’t have to do it alone. I’d be honored to walk this path with you.

Hello and welcome to Living Purpose Mental Health Counseling! My name is Lisa Cao, and my goal is to help Living Purpose focus on expanding Mental Health Services. As an American-born Chinese individual, I have faced unique challenges growing up in a society that often carries a stigma around mental health. The lack of cultural knowledge, limited access to resources, and the negative perceptions surrounding seeking help have motivated me to advocate for mental health awareness. I started with Living Purpose as an intern and now hold the role of Administrative & Project Management Assistant. In my new role, I will be working closely with Maria Diaz to bring my experience and expertise to help reach larger communities in unparalleled ways.

Hello, My name is Vanessa McClaney and I am in my final year at Yeshiva University, where I am pursuing my Master of Social Work (MSW). As a Clinical Resident at Living Purpose Mental Health Counseling, I find purpose in supporting individuals as they navigate life’s transitions, work through known and unknown stressors, and move toward healing in ways that feel authentic to them. Starting therapy can feel intimidating, and I know reaching out is often the hardest part. My goal is to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are- without pressure, judgment, or the expectation that you have to have everything figured out. I believe therapy works best when it feels like a genuine partnership, so my approach is collaborative, set at your pace, and centered on your unique goals and strengths. I work with women and men in all stages of life, individuals looking to break self-defeating patterns, adolescents, and parents navigating the joys and challenges of raising children, including children with special needs. I also have experience supporting individuals navigating substance use and recovery. In addition to my clinical training, I am a certified yoga instructor and enjoy incorporating mindfulness and holistic practices into therapy when they align with a client’s goals. I believe healing involves caring for both the mind and body, and sometimes the smallest moments of self-compassion can create meaningful change. My hope is that our sessions feel like an exhale- a place where you can set down what you’ve been carrying and simply be yourself. I look forward to welcoming you to my virtual couch and exploring how we can work together on your healing journey.

Hey there, I'm Keyaira Hamilton, a Clinical Resident with Living Purpose Mental Health Counseling. I am currently in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Northwestern University pursuing a Masters in Counseling. Navigating life’s transitions and distressing experiences can be emotionally, mentally, and physically overwhelming. If life came with a manual, navigating its unpredictable chapters would be far less overwhelming. But we sometimes find ourselves at a crossroads, not knowing which way to go. As a Clinical Resident, I offer a sacred and compassionate space where we don’t have to face these experiences alone. I specialize in holding a safe space for those journeying through trauma, anxiety, depression, and identity-related challenges. Grounded in inclusivity, exploring inner narratives, reactional dynamics, and building the tools to promote resonance and self- discovery. My approach emphasizes an integrative care, incorporating culturally responsive, mindfulness-based practices, in a judgement-free environment and taking into consideration your struggles and concerns regarding the mind-body connection. I want to honor each of your lived experiences to encourage openness, reflection, and healing. When you're ready, I will be here to walk alongside you.

Hi there, and welcome! I'm Colette, a Clinical Resident at Living Purpose Mental Health Counseling. For as long as I can remember, I've been drawn to the quiet spaces — the pauses and still moments that most of us rush past or push away. Learning to sit with those spaces, rather than flee from them, has shaped how I show up for the people I work with. Do you find yourself caught in the same patterns, in your relationships, your work, or the way you talk to yourself? Do you struggle to stand up for what you need, even when part of you knows exactly what that is? Maybe perfectionism is running the show, or self-doubt creeps in right when you are finding your footing. You are not broken; you're someone who is ready to look inward, understand what's driving you, and start living in a way that actually feels like you. In our work together, we'll explore your patterns, values, and the parts of you that have been working hard to protect you from those difficult feelings. My approach is trauma-informed and integrative: drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS) to understand the different parts of yourself, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to clarify your values and what truly matters to you, and EMDR to gently process experiences that may still be living in your body and mind. I tailor our work to you, because no two people's healing looks the same. I emphasize collaboration in sessions, with the understanding that you are in your shoes every day and know yourself best. Together, we'll challenge the thoughts keeping you stuck, build insight into what drives your responses, and build goals that reflect the life you actually want, not the one you feel pressured to live. I specialize in creating a warm, safe environment for those who may wish to explore past trauma, relationship dynamics, identity, and life's big and small transitions. In our work together, you can expect unconditional respect for who you are, honest reflection, a push when you need it, and some laughs along the way. The road to healing takes courage, and I would be honored to walk alongside you on that journey. Reaching out is difficult, and I'm glad you're here. When you are ready, I invite you to reach out to learn more about the work we can do together.

Hello, I'm Grace Moon, a Master of Arts student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Northwestern University. My ideal client is someone who feels stuck, perhaps overwhelmed by anxiety, navigating the weight of past experiences, or struggling to find meaning and direction in their present life. They might be grappling with difficult emotions, feeling disconnected from themselves or others, or facing challenges in their relationships. Their needs center around feeling understood, validated, and empowered. They long for a safe and non-judgmental space to explore their inner world, to make sense of their experiences, and to develop healthier coping mechanisms. They need support in identifying their strengths and in fostering a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion. Their goals often involve reducing their distress, improving their relationships, increasing their self-esteem, and living a more authentic and fulfilling life. They want to feel more in control of their emotions, to break free from patterns that no longer serve them, and to connect with their values and purpose. Ultimately, they want to feel a greater sense of peace, joy, and agency in their lives. I specialize in creating a warm and collaborative therapeutic environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment, and I tailor our work together to your unique needs and goals. I offer space to delve into the roots of your challenges, understand the patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and develop new perspectives and skills to navigate life’s complexities. My aim is to empower you to gain deeper insight into yourself, cultivate inner resources, and move towards greater well-being and personal growth. It takes courage to reach out for support, and if you’re reading this, you’ve already taken a significant step. If any of this resonates with your own experience, please know that you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. I offer a confidential and supportive space where we can work together to understand your struggles and explore pathways towards healing and growth. If you’re feeling ready to take that next step, I invite you to reach out. I’d be glad to learn more about what you’re going through and discuss how I might be able to help.

Hello, My name is Isabelle Rodriguez. I am the Social Media and Community Engagement Intern at Living Purpose Mental Health Counseling. Currently, I am a senior at the Colin Powell School at The City College of New York, where I am completing a combined BA/MA in Psychology through the CASAC program. My interest in mental health began during high school, when meeting people from different backgrounds helped me recognize how much individuals may carry beneath the surface. That awareness developed into a strong desire to help others feel seen, supported, and understood. I believe meaningful connections are built through authenticity, compassion, curiosity, and creativity. I bring these values to my work in storytelling, social media, and community engagement. Outside of academics, I enjoy reading, playing video games, and participating in CCNY’s ping-pong club. I am also an animal lover and have an 11-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier named Madonna, whose name perfectly matches her big personality.

Hi, I’m Karen Montiel. I am a senior at the City College of New York majoring in psychology with a minor in English Creative Writing. I was born and raised in Yonkers, NY to a humble and hardworking Mexican family. I am a proud first-generation college student. My interest in psychology began my junior year of high school. I had a conversation with my friend at the time and she mentioned I'd be a great therapist. I have always been a wise friend with advice, empathy, and genuineness. When I started college in 2022 and took intro to psychology I realized how broad the field is, and I was interested in child psychology. I have completed several courses surrounding child psychology like infancy and childhood, child counseling, and parent-infant relationship. I have a younger sister. We are 14 years apart and being able to grow with her has helped me mature. I am excited to be continuing with Living Purpose MHC as an Administrative Assistant as the skills and experience will support my post-grad plans of working with clients. I would be able to further the Administrative Assistant requirements and skills of empathy, attention to detail, and effective communication to ensure a positive experience for all clients. I have retail experience for four years and as a retail associate the customer needs are important. Given my ability to manage through retail, I know that I would be able to contribute to this role effectively. Some of my personal hobbies are listening to music, playing and watching basketball, journaling, and going to concerts.

Hi, I’m Danice! I was born and raised in the Bronx and studied Psychology at The City College of New York. My family is originally from Bulgaria, and growing up bilingual in Bulgarian and English helped shape my appreciation for different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been someone others feel comfortable talking to. I’ve always valued being a thoughtful listener and creating space for people to feel heard and supported. That natural interest in connecting with others ultimately led me to pursue a career in mental health, and I am currently working toward my Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. Joining Living Purpose Mental Health Counseling is an exciting next step in my professional journey. I look forward to bringing attentiveness, compassion, and care to my role while helping create a welcoming and supportive experience for our clients. Outside of work and school, I enjoy cooking and baking and spending time with my three dogs—Wolf, Akari, and Nova—who always keep life interesting!