Meet Our Team
Maria Diaz, CEO and Founder
LMHC-D, LPC, EMDR Certified Therapist
I’m Maria Diaz, the Founder and CEO of Living Purpose Mental Health Counseling. My work is rooted in a deep belief that healing happens when people feel seen, understood, and supported in reconnecting with their inner strength and clarity. For nearly two decades, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals navigate trauma, complex life experiences, and the emotional patterns that often keep them feeling stuck. Over the years, I have served in a range of roles including Qualified Mental Health Professional, Clinical Director, and Adjunct Professor, experiences that have shaped both my clinical philosophy and my leadership approach. Today, in addition to my clinical work, I lead and supervise a team of therapists, helping them grow into thoughtful, skilled clinicians who provide meaningful care to the communities we serve. My clinical approach integrates evidence-based trauma therapies with a compassionate, collaborative style. I am an EMDR-Certified Therapist and incorporate Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed work to help clients understand the different “parts” of themselves that carry pain, protection, and resilience. This integrative approach allows clients to move beyond symptom management and into deeper healing—processing past experiences while developing greater self-trust, emotional regulation, and clarity about their lives. As both a therapist and practice owner, I am deeply committed to creating a space where clients receive high-quality, culturally responsive care. I believe therapy should empower people to reconnect with their values, their voice, and their sense of purpose. As someone who was born and raised in East Harlem, also known as Spanish Harlem, my experience continues to shape my perspective on community, resilience, and culturally informed care. Today, I live in New York with my husband and our two children, who keep life joyful and full. Outside of my professional work, I prioritize practices that keep me grounded—prayer, meditation, journaling, and exercise—which allow me to show up fully for the people and work that matter most. To work with me check me out here: https://www.mariadiazlmhc.com
Alexandra Lopez Martinez, Supervisor
LMHC-D, LPC, Certified A-CBT Therapist
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.
Are you looking to be understood? Do you feel stuck in a loop that you can’t seem to get out of? Are you wanting to build a relationship with your mind, body or soul, so that you can feel more at home within yourself? This is what therapy is about in the sessions I have with my clients. Whether you need EMDR to process some heavy trauma, or CBT to jump out of negative thought loops. Maybe you need IFS to connect with different parts of yourself, break things down. Or perhaps, some art therapy to bring out the joy that’s been missing. Breath work and body work can be combined to any approach we take. I have thorough training in multiple therapeutic techniques, and create a unique blend that aligns to you and your life context. At the center of our work together, is you. This is your space. I cannot fix you, I cannot heal you. But I can guide you. I can help facilitate your healing process, help you reveal and use the power to heal you already posses, however deep it may be buried. We can also create new tools together, ones that truly align with who you are as a person so that they feel natural, and as easy to use as your diaphragm is for breathing. As your therapist, we will explore your inner world together, and how that inner world is impacted by and communicates with the external world you’re in. Our work will be done within a space of humanity and true understanding. If or when you feel ready to begin, I look forward to working with you.
Ashanti Palma, MHC-I
Clinical Resident
Hello! I'm Ashanti, I’m of Caribbean descent, and a recent graduate from NYU with a Master’s in School Counseling. I’m pleased to be interning as a clinical resident with Living Purpose, where I’m dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward healing and growth. Having navigated my own triumphs and challenges throughout life, I deeply understand how overwhelming life can feel at times. The weight of heavy emotions and unpredictable circumstances can take a toll on our mental well-being, especially when facing them alone. My role as a therapist is to walk alongside you, helping you rediscover meaning and purpose in your life. I aim to support clients in understanding their past by creating a safe and welcoming space to explore and process suppressed, repressed, and avoided emotions, experiences, and circumstances—all natural coping strategies we use to navigate life's challenges. My approach centers on (IFS) Internal Family Systems and (CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Together, we’ll work to process past experiences, address suppressed emotions, and build confidence in overcoming life’s hurdles. My goal is for you to leave each session feeling a bit more empowered and confident, with tools to manage negative thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. I’m passionate about psychoeducation, encouraging clients to explore topics outside of sessions, relevant to their growth, while reflecting on insights gained during sessions. This collaborative approach fosters a strong therapist-client partnership. The more informed an individual is, the more proactive an individual can be within sessions and their own lives. I specialize in helping clients develop practical, empowering strategies, including: * Assertiveness and boundary setting * Resilience and self-esteem building * Self-love and self-care practices * Healthy coping mechanisms * Trauma processing and identifying triggers * Communication and interpersonal skills for stronger relationships * Uncovering and addressing underlying issues I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore, heal, and grow. Let’s work together to navigate your path forward with confidence and hope.
Grace Moon, MHC-I
Clinical Resident
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.
Keyaira Hamilton, MHC-I
Clinical Resident
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, I’m Colette! Life and all of its changes can be extremely overwhelming, and I’m here to walk alongside you through it all. I work to provide an empathetic and culturally sensitive environment, bringing in evidence-based care to support you. You may be struggling to understand your place in the world, worrying about your relationships, or wondering what your future may hold. I aim to help you discover your strengths so that you are able to face challenges head on. In my work, I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where you can show up as your true, authentic self. I enjoy working with adults navigating anxiety, identity exploration, life transitions, and questions around personal values. Before entering the counseling field, I spent time in the fitness industry, which was an experience that deepened my belief in the profound connection between physical and mental well-being. I bring that mind-body awareness into my clinical work, along with a deep respect for each person’s unique story. Reaching out for help is difficult, especially if you’ve ever felt that you are unsure where to turn. I want to thank you for taking this first step, and recognize the hard work you’ve already put in. I am here to offer a kind, confidential, and supportive space where we can find your strengths and paths to growth. If you feel ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, I invite you to reach out. Therapy is a collaborative effort, and I can’t wait to work alongside you.
Lisa Cao
Administrative & Project Management Assistant
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.
Reem Othman
Community Engagement and Special Projects Intern
Hello, my name is Reem Othman! I am excited to be interning at Living Purpose Mental Health Counseling as a Community Engagement and Special Projects Intern. I am currently a junior at the Colin Powell School at the City College of New York, where I am double majoring in Psychology and Sociology. As a Yemeni-American Muslim woman born and raised in the Bronx and now living in Yonkers, I am deeply interested in understanding how culture, community, and social systems influence mental health. My academic interests focus on how societal structures, cultural identity, and access to resources shape individual well-being, particularly in underserved communities. Through my internship at Living Purpose, I hope to help connect people with valuable mental health resources and contribute to outreach efforts that increase awareness and accessibility. I am especially interested in creating content and initiatives that encourage individuals to learn more about their mental health and take meaningful steps toward well-being. Outside of my academic and professional interests, I enjoy baking, cooking, and spending time with loved ones. I value the sense of connection and community that can be created through sharing meals, culture, and conversation. Fun fact: I have two older brothers and two younger sisters, which makes me the middle child!
Karen Montiel
Administrative Assistant Intern
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 interning at 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.