PSYCHCENTER TRAINING PROGRAM

 Leyanis “Leya” Diaz is a compassionate counselor-in-training pursuing her master’s degree at Seton Hall University. She is grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive care. Leya views therapy as a collaborative, safe space built on trust and authenticity. She is especially passionate about supporting young adults, first-generation individuals, and those facing anxiety, identity challenges, and life transitions. Dedicated to reducing stigma, Leya strives to make mental health care inclusive, accessible, and empowering for all. 

Hello! My name is Katie Schmidt, and I’m honored to be joining The Psych Center as an intern. I’m currently pursuing my Master’s Degree at Seton Hall University, and I have a passion for supporting individuals on their path to healing and self-discovery. I welcome working with clients from all walks of life, and I am especially interested in supporting those who are exploring or struggling with substance use, processing past experiences, or simply seeking a safe space to be heard.

My approach is client-centered—I believe in the power of personal growth, empowerment, and meeting people where they are. I’m here to walk alongside clients in partnership as they navigate their own journeys.

On a personal note, I come to this work with a diverse background, having spent time working in corporate settings before stepping away to raise my two children as their primary caregiver. These life experiences have deepened my empathy and perspective, ultimately leading me to this field."

  I’m a Master’s/Ed.S. student in counseling at Seton Hall University, with a strong commitment to supporting individuals through life’s transitions and challenges. I’m passionate about working with people from a variety of backgrounds. My counseling style emphasizes warmth, respect, and collaboration, focusing on your overall well-being rather than just isolated symptoms. I aim to foster a therapeutic space that feels safe, inclusive, and empowering, where you feel heard and understood. I believe in honoring each person’s unique experiences and providing care that is both ethical and culturally sensitive, as we work together toward meaningful growth and resilience.   

  "Hi! My name is Mariah Curet and I am currently pursuing my master's degree at NJCU. It has been such an amazing journey so far. I have a passion for helping others, and feel the clinical mental health field resonates with me on so many levels. I want to provide a safe space for my clients to genuinely express themselves, and ultimately help guide them to become the best versions of themselves. We are the authors of our lives, each with our own unique story. I believe in the power of faith, unconditional positive regard and perseverance as the true keys to getting where we want to be in life. My counseling style is grounded in a client-centered approach, where the individual’s needs, experiences, and goals remain at the heart of the therapeutic process. I view the client as the expert of their own life, and work collaboratively to support self-discovery, empowerment, and personal growth. By prioritizing empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity, I create a safe environment where clients feel heard, validated, and respected. Sometimes it takes a village, but no one is ever alone.”

Thaiba is a clinical intern currently pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Seton Hall University. She has a strong interest in working with diverse populations and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive therapeutic environment. Thaiba’s clinical approach is rooted in client-centered principles, emphasizing collaboration, empowerment, and respect for each individual’s unique experiences. She has particular interest in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, navigating relationship concerns, and managing adjustment-related challenges. Thaiba views the therapeutic process as a partnership in which clients are supported in building on their strengths and working toward their personal goals.

Alexandra Pinckney is a second-year student at Seton Hall University pursuing a Master's degree in Counseling with the goal of becoming a psychologist. She has experience working with young adults and children on the Autism spectrum as a Behavioral Technician. Alexandra is passionate about supporting individuals throughout life transitions, promoting diversity and inclusion, and fostering an environment that welcomes freedom and self-expression.

Grace Varnish is a second-year graduate student at Seton Hall University, pursuing a master’s degree in counseling with the goal of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has experience working with children in preschool settings and is interested in supporting individuals across the lifespan. Grace is passionate about fostering warm, comfortable environments where clients feel safe and supported. She hopes to work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating life transitions, challenges, or periods of growth.

 I am a graduate student studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walsh University, beginning my internship with a strong commitment to helping individuals through their unique life journeys. I believe that healing is not linear, and my goal is to provide a compassionate, grounding presence for those navigating difficult emotions and experiences. I have a special interest in working with clients experiencing grief, anxiety, and panic, recognizing how deeply these struggles can impact daily life and sense of self. My counseling approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and trauma-informed care. I value listening to each client’s story and working together to build insight, coping strategies, and hope. Whether someone is grieving a loss, managing overwhelming anxiety, or seeking greater emotional balance, I aim to walk alongside them with care and respect.   

 I am currently pursuing a Master's/Ed.S in Mental Health Counseling at Seton Hall University.  As a student of counseling, I believe in individuals' ability to change and want all my clients to feel seen and heard as unique individuals, and to believe they are worth the hard work to achieve the change they need and desire to live fuller, more meaningful lives. I aim to empower my clients and help them realize their agency so that they can make better choices for themselves. I believe in collaborating with clients and building relationships based on trust, transparency, and respect. I believe that counseling is ultimately about helping clients identify thoughts, feelings, and behaviors they want and need to change, and providing the tools they need to help themselves. Prior to pursuing a degree in counseling, I earned a doctoral degree in Higher Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, and then worked as a student affairs professional and as an adjunct professor. A common aspect of my work was my love of being there for my students and helping them as they struggled to make sense of what was happening in their lives. As a future counselor, I look forward to continuing to work with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with transitions and changes and related issues with anxiety and mild depression.