Welcome!

Including nearly ten years of clinical service of counseling adolescents, adults, seniors, and families, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) in the State of New Jersey.  I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) through the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC).  I am a certified brainspotting practitioner that assists clients struggling with overt anxiety and trauma and I have a certification as a human-animal intervention specialist that enables me to incorporate animal-assisted therapy in treatment planning.  With a broad spectrum of services and experience available, I like to conduct therapy in a way that can be easily modified or adapted week-to-week to address any given concerns that may arise.

Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy a wide range of interests that keep me grounded. In a previous chapter of my life, I actually worked as a writer, director, and senior animator for a preschool children’s television show on Nick Jr. These days, my time is centered around my family, whether I'm spending quality time with my children, practicing Isshinryu Karate (in which I hold a black belt), or chopping firewood. I am also an avid reader, gamer, and world traveler, with a deep passion for cooking, specifically making homemade steamed dumplings and smoking my own ribs.

Hi, I'm Daniela!  I'm a bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey.  I am here to support you on your journey to find healing and balance.  I specialize in treating individuals and couples to gain better balance, manage stress, and improve their mental well-being.  I believe that our experiences can negatively influence the way we think, feel, and understand ourselves and the world.  My approach is to assist clients in processing their experiences, outlooks, and feelings that have been holding them back and to develop a more positive worldview.  My goal is to help our clients heal and create better versions of themselves.

I’m a Hispanic woman who deeply values family and community. In my downtime, I’m usually singing, reading, or dancing. I love staying active and creative, and I bring that same sense of balance and authentic engagement to my work at WayFare.

When working with me you’ll walk into a peaceful, comfortable room where you’ll feel safe from the outside world. As a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), I provide a non-judgmental ear so you can speak your mind. I am sensitive to the many identities you bring into the therapy room (race, gender, age, class, sexual orientation, religion, ability, citizenship, etc.). These identities affect how you move through the world and how society treats you, all of which are open for discussion in our work together. I use a person-centered approach that puts you in charge and acknowledges that nobody knows you better than YOU. I recognize that unprocessed past traumas can negatively affect us today. I will use trauma-informed practices to help you stay grounded and safe in the present moment while discussing your past. I use Motivational Interviewing to help you make the changes you’ve been wanting to make. If needed, you’ll learn healthy coping skills to better deal with daily life stressors. My hope is you will feel seen, heard, and truly understood throughout our sessions. I can’t wait to work with you!

When I'm not in the therapist's chair, you can most likely find me at home with my daughter, pushing her in the stroller while my dog happily trots along. My husband and I love to camp, hike and lounge around any body of water we can find. I'm currently in a season of caring for others, but my previous identities include being a professionally trained French horn player and music teacher, a corporate finance bookkeeper, and a writer of fiction.

I work with individuals navigating a wide range of psychological and emotional challenges, offering comprehensive treatment across all different types of mental health disorders while maintaining a dedicated clinical specialty in addictions. I am deeply committed to helping clients develop vital coping skills, recognize their inherent strengths, and build the lasting commitment required to achieve mental wellness and long-term sobriety. Grounded in multicultural competence, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing, I create highly individualized treatment plans tailored to each person's unique life experiences. My ultimate goal is to provide a safe, expert space for clients to heal from mental health struggles, overcome substance use challenges, and successfully reclaim the fulfilling life they want for themselves.

I’m a proud Puerto Rican and Italian woman who grew up in Trenton, New Jersey. Some of the identities that shape who I am include being a partner, daughter, sister, videographer/photographer, and someone who genuinely loves supporting others as they navigate life’s ups and downs. Overall, one of my most important identities is that of an advocate for marginalized communities. When I’m not in session, you’ll probably find me hanging out with my dog, getting lost in a good book, writing poetry, playing video games, or spending quality time with the people I care about most.

I provide counseling for individuals facing substance use concerns, co-occurring mental health challenges, ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and difficulties related to life transitions. I have had meaningful exposure early in my clinical work to mood disorders, including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. I take pride in being person-centered and believe therapy should be tailored to the unique needs, goals, and values of each client. Grounded in cultural competence and cultural humility, I strive to foster a collaborative environment where clients feel safe exploring their experiences without judgment. My approach is integrative and flexible, and I frequently draw from existential therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy to support self-awareness, resilience, and lasting change.

I'm the son of an Italian immigrant and family, culture, and community have always been close to my heart. I'm also a former Division I track sprinter. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, watching football and combat sports, and spending time with the people closest to me.