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MORENO VALLEY

 12810 Heacock St., Ste 202-B, Moreno Valley, CA 92553
Phone: (951) 247-6542, Ext 201

MEET THE TEAM

Caring, Professional Therapists with a Christian Perspective

Max J. Kayes

MAX J. KAYES

PRESIDENT, CLINICAL DIRECTOR, M.A., LMFT #22998 

Max Kayes is a licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist with over 42 years of counseling experience. He is the CEO of New Hope Christian Counseling Centers and the President of New Hope Christian Counseling Foundation. He received his Master's Degree in Marriage, Family & Child Therapy from Biola University in 1985, which combined coursework from Rosemead School of Professional Psychology and Talbot Theological Seminary. He has also been a Clinical Associate Faculty Member at Fuller Theological Seminary, Graduate School of Psychology, Division of Family Therapy. Specialties: Individuals and families suffering from depression, stress/anxiety, victims of sexual abuse, parents dealing with strong-willed children and other parenting issues, marital/premarital counseling, and child therapy. Mr. Kayes is a clinical member of the California Association of Marriage & Family Therapists.

ALEX NAVARRO

M.S., LMFT #125785
BOARD MEMBER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Bilingual Spanish and English

Alex Navarro is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from California Baptist University. Alex is experienced in helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds that are dealing with anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, past trauma/abuse, addictions, and other mood-related disorders.  Alex has experience working with children in a variety of settings including play therapy and early intervention. Alex is passionate about working with couples in marital/premarital counseling and uses a faith-based approach for those that are seeking to incorporate spirituality into treatment

951-247-6542 EXT 254
alex.navarro@newhopeccf.com

Alex Navarro
Daureen Sanford

DAUREEN SANFORD

MA, LMFT

She attended Rosemead Graduate School of Psychology and received her M.A. in Clinical Psychology. She works with children, adolescents and adults both individually and with the families. Specialty areas include depression, anxiety, stress management, treating victims of sexual abuse, marital problems, and grief counseling. She has presented seminars and classes on marriage relationships, parenting, lay counseling, grief in several Nazarene churches in the valley.

AN-TONIA PARRAGA

M.S., LMFT #87071
Bilingual-Fluent Spanish and English

Tonia is an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist. She obtained her M.S. in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. She specializes in childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, reunification of families, parenting, co-parenting, identity and cultural difficulties, and dual diagnosis. She has served as a student counselor at Moreno Valley Community College and for various organizations such as school districts, mentored children, and educated special needs students. Tonia's considerable experience also includes specialized training in counseling individuals who are confronting a life-threatening stage, including the hospice process, grief, and loss. Tonia has additional training in substance addiction and suicide prevention in conjunction with her undergraduate degree. Tonia incorporates her understanding of Latino culture into her work with Spanish-speaking clients. CBT, Systems, and REBT are her multiple clinical orientations.

An-Tonia Parraga
Rachelle Navarro

CHAELENE “RACHELLE” NAVARRO

M.A., M.S., LMFT #132461

Chaelene “Rachelle” Navarro earned her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology and her Master of Arts in Counseling Ministry from California Baptist University (CBU). Rachelle’s professional endeavors began in the field of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapy with children on the Autism Spectrum. Rachelle has served on multiple teams to provide services to a range of persons including children and teens who have been afflicted by trauma, young adults wrestling with anxiety and depression, and older adults experiencing relational challenges. Rachelle’s passions include assisting those in martial distress as well as persons who are looking to integrate their Christian faith into daily living.

951-247-6542 ext. 255

Chaelene.Navarro@newhopeccf.com

ALEXI KRYGIER

LMFT, LPCC

Alexi Krygier is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist  with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. Alexi has professional experience working with children and youth, individuals, and couples therapy. Alexi has experience working with kids and teens from the Val Verde School District using a variety of methods such as conducting group therapy and play therapy and uses a Strength Based approach. Alexi has also conducted parenting classes for parents who are struggling with their children. Alexi has experience treating a variety of needs including special needs, ADHD, anger management, addiction, impulse control, anxiety, trauma, depression along with suicidal ideation and self-harm. Alexi is also able to integrate the client's spiritual needs into the sessions should the client request it.

951-247-6542 EXT 207
Alexi.Krygier@newhopeccf.com

Alexi Krygier
Jeannine Lira

JEANNINE LIRA

M.S. AMFT APCC

Jeannine Lira is an Associate in Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate in Professional Clinical Counselor with a Master’s of Science in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University, and a Bachelors of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University of San Bernardino. Jeannine has experience in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and family therapy. Jeannine has experience treating a variety of needs including anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, depression, suicidal ideation and self-harm. Jeannine is also able to integrate the client's spiritual needs into the sessions should the client request it.

951-247-6542 EXT 256

Jeannine.Lira@newhopeccf.com

HAYDI GERGES

AMFT #134112

Haydi Gerges obtained her Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and Professional Clinical Counseling from California Baptist University. Haydi has experience working with children, adults, and adolescents in a variety of settings including early intervention. Haydi is experienced in helping people of all ages deal with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, past trauma/abuse, body dysmorphia, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorder, and other mood-related disorders. Haydi has extensive experience working with cultural adjustments, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and co-dependency. Haydi has received special training in elder abuse and suicide prevention. Haydi brings knowledge of the Middle-Eastern culture and integrates it with her work with Middle Eastern clients. She also incorporates Christian faith-based practices into her treatment when it is appropriate for her clients.

951-247-6542 EXT 265
Haydi.gerges@newhopeccf.com

Haydi Gerges
Amanda Hayden

AMANDA HAYDEN

M.A., LMFT, 138925

Amanda Hayden is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Masters of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology, MFT Specialization from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, a Bachelor's of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Phoenix, and a Bachelor's of Science degree in Graphic Design from The Art Institute of California- Orange County. Amanda has experience working with children, individuals, and couples therapy. Amanda has experience treating a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, behavioral concerns, ADHD, and past trauma.

951-247-6542 EXT 257

amanda.Hayden@newhopeccf.com

CHRISTOPHER GODINA

AMFT #140043, APCC #14040

Christopher Godina is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and a Associate Professional Clinical Counseling. He earned a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. Christopher is passionate about working with youth and the elderly who struggle with finding meaning and purpose in their lives. He believes everyone has a unique story to tell and plans on working alongside his clients in dealing with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Christopher also plans on specializing in helping children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with video game addictions and related disorders in the future.

Christopher Godina
Liza Solares

LIZA SOLARES

MFT TRAINEE

Liza is a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee pursuing her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. Liza has experience working with children, adolescents, adults in an individual or group setting. She is passionate about helping individuals of all ages, couples, and families, offering counseling for anxiety, depression, life transitions, communication barriers, and relationship conflicts. She has worked with various individuals with dual diagnoses like anxiety, depression, behavior disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and mood disorders. Liza is excited and passionate about continuing to help others in their journey to healing and gain all of the experience she can along the way.  She can integrate a faith-based approach for clients who desire to incorporate spirituality into treatment.

ASHLEIGH LEE

APCC

Ashleigh Lee is an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) who earned her Master of Science in Professional Clinical Counseling with a specialization in Children and Adolescents from Azusa Pacific University. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in diverse clinical settings including schools, group environments, and community-based services. She has experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. She also works with clients navigating grief, identity development, and life transitions. Ashleigh is passionate about working with children and adolescents while also supporting individuals across the lifespan. She strives to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. She enjoys helping clients connect with themselves and experience holistic healing through the use of creativity and grounding techniques. She values connection and believes that reconnecting with the inner self and inner child supports growth and healing. She also incorporates a client’s spiritual beliefs into therapy, including Christian faith-based perspectives, upon request.

Ashleigh Lee
Danielle Riportella

DANIELLE RIPORTELLA

MFT TRAINEE

Dani is a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) Trainee who is passionate about integrating faith and psychology to support individuals in their growth and healing. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California Baptist University and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Counseling Psychology at the same institution. She has experience working with young adults on a college campus and is particularly drawn to couples therapy, relationship development, and empowering individuals to find and use their voice. Dani believes each person is uniquely created with purpose and value, and she thoughtfully integrates a Christ-centered perspective into the therapeutic process, tailored to each client’s preferences. She is committed to creating a supportive and collaborative environment where clients feel safe to explore challenges and pursue growth. Dani looks forward to walking alongside individuals and couples as they strengthen relationships and navigate life challenges.

ANGELICA MENA

M.S., AMFT, APCC

Angelica Mena is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Marriage and Family Therapy at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She also serves as an adjunct professor, teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in counseling psychology. Angelica works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, supporting clients through challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, and life transitions. She has specialized experience in trauma-informed care and crisis intervention, including work with individuals experiencing high levels of emotional distress, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Her approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. Angelica creates a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported as they process their emotions and life experiences. She helps clients build insight, strengthen coping skills, and develop healthier patterns in their relationships. Angelica integrates evidence-based practices such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), while also taking a holistic and systemic approach to care. For clients who desire it, she incorporates a faith-based perspective, honoring the importance of spirituality in the healing process. Angelica is passionate about walking alongside her clients as they pursue growth, healing, and meaningful change.

Angelica Mena
Myra Hernandez

MYRA HERNANDEZ

M.S., AMFT

Myra is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who holds a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, with a minor in Professional Clinical Counseling, from California Baptist University. She also earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the same institution. Myra is passionate about walking alongside adults who are seeking healing from childhood trauma. She recognizes that this journey can be complex and, at times, messy—but with the right support, it can also become a meaningful and exploratory path toward growth and restoration. She works with clients to better understand the connection between their past experiences, how those experiences have shaped them, and how they can begin to reshape those patterns to develop a renewed sense of self. In addition to individual work, Myra enjoys supporting couples who desire to rediscover joy and connection in their relationships. She helps partners recognize the unique perspectives each person brings into the room, fostering healthier communication and deeper understanding. Myra values the complexity of each individual and welcomes the exploration of spirituality as part of the therapeutic process when it is meaningful to the client. She integrates a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet clients where they are and respond to what unfolds in the therapy room. Myra also brings experience as a social worker, with insight into the foster care system and adoption. In addition, she serves as a biblical counseling professor at Fountain of Truth Bible Institute, where she equips pastors and ministry leaders to better support the individuals and families they serve—often as the first point of care for those seeking guidance.

STEPHANIE LLAMAS

MFT TRAINEE

Stephanie is a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at California Baptist University. Before entering the mental health field, she spent over 20 years in the corporate sector, gaining insight into high-pressure environments while developing strong interpersonal skills. Throughout this time, she remained committed to helping others through volunteer work with local charities and by teaching children and adolescents in her church community. Stephanie is passionate about helping individuals of all ages navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and life transitions. She is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where clients feel comfortable, authentic, and empowered in their autonomy. Stephanie takes a collaborative, client-centered approach and thoughtfully integrates each client’s spiritual beliefs into sessions when requested.

Stephanie Llamas
Jalece Hickey

JALECE HICKEY

MFT TRAINEE

Ja’Lece is a Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) Trainee currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at California Baptist University. She is excited to work with all clients and has a passion for working with children and couples. She has experience in ABA services, supporting children with behavioral and emotional challenges. These experiences have shaped her approach to be patient, compassionate, and attentive to each client’s needs. She values creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered in their journey through sessions. She is also willing and able to integrate faith-based perspectives into therapy for those who desire it, recognizing the importance of spiritual beliefs in the healing process. She is honored to walk alongside all clients as they pursue growth, healing, and meaningful change in their lives.

JOAQUIN BARRAZA

MFT TRAINEE

Joaquin is an MFT Trainee who earned his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of California, Riverside. He is currently pursuing his Master’s in Counseling Psychology at California Baptist University, where he continues to develop his clinical skills and passion for supporting others. Joaquin is committed to creating a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for his clients. He values taking the time to understand each client’s story, challenges, and goals. Joaquin prefers to take a cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and solution-focused approach, helping clients develop practical, effective skills they can use long after therapy ends. He believes that the mind is like a muscle that can be strengthened and sharpened with the right tools and techniques. Outside of his clinical work, Joaquin enjoys rock climbing, going to the movies, hiking, and exploring new places to eat. He values balance and brings that same grounded and thoughtful approach into his work with clients.

Joaquin Barraza
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