Maria J. Plasencia, LAC

Meet Maria Jose

I am a Licensed Associate Counselor, and a National Certified Counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminology from Rutgers University. I am also currently pursuing my School Counselor Certification at Montclair State University. I provide counseling in both English and Spanish.

I believe therapy is a collaborative process and strive to create a warm, safe, and supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and comfortable being themselves. I provide culturally responsive and LGBTQ+ affirming care, recognizing the importance of each person’s identity, background, and lived experiences.

Lets Begin

Who I am

I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, relational concerns, and major life transitions, including divorce and immigration. I have a particular interest in supporting individuals with ADHD and other neurodivergent individuals in understanding and managing symptoms, developing practical coping strategies, and building confidence in their daily lives.

I especially enjoy working with teens and young adults as they navigate emotions, identity, relationships, school, and other important life transitions. I have supported adolescents and young adults in navigating career goals, exploring their futures, and building confidence as they move through new stages of life. When working with younger clients, I incorporate creative approaches, including art- and play-based strategies, to encourage self-expression and engagement.

Qualifications

At My New Days Counseling, we are committed to providing high-quality care to our clients. Our therapists are highly trained professionals who have completed accredited educational programs and are licensed by the State of New Jersey, ensuring ethical, knowledgeable, and effective mental health services.

Bilingual Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), fluent in English and Spanish, with experience

supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. Focused on treating anxiety, depression,

ADHD, and life transitions, while addressing emotional challenges through culturally responsive care,

crisis intervention, and a collaborative, supportive approach.

My goal is to meet each client where they are and support them in developing greater self understanding, confidence, and the skills to navigate life’s challenges.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Founder | Owner

Dahiana P. Grisales, LCSW

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of NJ with license #44SC05389400, I earned a Master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Kean University, and an Associate’s of Arts in Human Services from County College of Morris...

License Associate Counselor

Mental Health Clinician

Marina Taylor Bednarek, LAC

I am a Licensed Associate Counselor in the state of New Jersey. My License number is: 37AC00588300. I hold a Master of Arts in Counseling degree from Stockton University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science from Stockton University.

License Associate Counselor

Mental Health Clinician

Maria J. Plasencia, LAC

Lorena Olivera LPC, ACS My New Days Counseling

Licensed Professional Counselor

Mental Health Professional

Lorena Olivera LPC

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Approved Clinical Supervisor in the state of New Jersey. I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, New Jersey. License #37PC0054500

Katerin Lopera LPC My New Days Cousenling

Licensed Professional Counselor

Mental Health Professional

Katerin Lopera LPC

I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fairleigh Dickinson University. My License number is: 37PC00961600 and I have several years of experience providing counseling services in school, home, and community-based settings.

Chief Administrator Officer

Owner

Jhon J. Grisales, B.F.A

As Chief Administrative Officer of My New Days Counseling, Jhon Grisales provides strategic leadership and operational direction to ensure the organization functions with excellence, efficiency, and integrity.