ABOUT US
Welcome to A New Hope Academy, a beacon of progress in the mental health community. Founded with the vision of empowering mental health professionals through comprehensive education and training, our non-profit organization is dedicated to enhancing the quality and effectiveness of mental health care.
Our Mission
At A New Hope Academy, our mission is to provide mental health providers with innovative and practical training, fostering their professional growth and enabling them to deliver exceptional care. We strive to bridge the gap between emerging mental health research and everyday clinical practice, ensuring our community receives the most effective and compassionate care possible.
Our Impact
Through a variety of educational workshops, seminars, and specialized training sessions, we equip mental health professionals with the latest therapeutic techniques and insights into cultural competency and ethical practices. Our programs are designed not only to advance professional knowledge but also to cultivate skills that improve patient outcomes.
Our Approach
Education at A New Hope Academy goes beyond traditional learning. We integrate elements of pop culture and geek therapy, making complex concepts more relatable and engaging. This unique approach not only captures the interest of participants but also enhances their ability to connect with clients from all walks of life.
Our Community
We believe in the power of community and collaboration. A New Hope Academy is a place where professionals come to learn, share, and grow together. By fostering a supportive network, we help practitioners thrive both personally and professionally.
Meet The Team
At A New Hope Academy, our strength lies in our team. Guided by a passion for mental health education and a commitment to excellence, our Board of Directors and President work collaboratively to steer our organization towards a brighter future. Each member of our board is driven by a shared commitment to improve mental health care through education. We believe that by empowering mental health providers with advanced knowledge and skills, we can make a profound impact on the wellness of communities nationwide.
Our President
Maria Laquerre-Diego, LMFT, RPT-S, Founder & President
With a deep passion for mental health advocacy and a rich background in clinical practice, Maria founded A New Hope Academy to transform mental health education. Maria brings over 19 years of experience in mental health services, coupled with a visionary approach to integrating pop culture and therapy. Under Maria's leadership, the academy has grown into a pioneering institution that not only educates but also inspires.
Our Board of Directors
Liliana Baylon, LMFT-S, RPT-S, Chair
Liliana Baylon is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in CO, TX, NM, & IA. Liliana is a bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural therapist specializing in treating families, couples, and children who have experienced trauma, abuse, and multicultural issues. Before establishing her private practice, she worked for non-profit organizations and private practice agencies. She is an AAMFT-approved supervisor, EFT Supervisor (EFIT, EFCT, EFFT), registered play therapist supervisor, and Synergetic play therapist consultant. She has served in leadership in several associations, including the Colorado Play Therapy Association (CAPT), Denver Community for Emotionally Focused Therapists (DCEFT), and Synergetic Play Therapy Institute – Non-Profit (SPTF) and A New Hope Academy – Non-Profit. Liliana brings a unique cultural lens into her therapy sessions, supervision/consultation and presentations as she primarily treats newcomers, migrants and 1st generation, while providing therapy and supervision in both languages.
Angel Diego, Treasurer
Angel Diego serves as the Treasurer of A New Hope Academy, bringing over 20 years of experience as a veteran teacher supporting children in Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and Residential Treatment Centers (RTC). He holds a Master’s degree in Special Education and Mathematics, which has equipped him with the skills and knowledge to address diverse educational and mental health needs. In his role as Treasurer, Angel ensures the financial health of A New Hope Academy through strategic budgeting, planning, and transparent reporting. His dedication to mental health advocacy and education, combined with his expertise in special education, enables A New Hope Academy to expand its reach and impact, providing essential training and support to the community.
Breena Tafoya, LCSW, RPT-S, Board Member
Breena is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has been in the behavioral health field in New Mexico for over 40 years. Breena began her career with CYFD Protective Services and then with Juvenile Justice where she was a director of a juvenile detention center. She then moved on to do clinical work where she became a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor and Infant Mental Health Therapist for several years. Breena has opened two behavioral health agencies, one in Las Cruces, New Mexico and one in Las Vegas, New Mexico. She was CEO of both agencies until recently when she stepped down to a Chief Operations Officer / Chief Financial Officer. Breena specializes in program development and fiscal management for behavioral health agencies and various boards she has been on.
Jennifer Shivey, LPC-S, RPT-S, Board Member
Meet Jennifer Shivey, a passionate play therapist, practice owner, and LGBTQ+ advocate for youth. With an MA in Community Counseling, she is a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor and incorporates EMDR into her practice.
Jennifer has extensive experience using tailored therapeutic techniques to help children express emotions and navigate challenges. As an international speaker and consultant, she shares her expertise on play therapy and inclusive practices for LGBTQ+ youth.
As a board member of A New Hope Academy, Jennifer is committed to advancing the organization's mission to support mental health initiatives and advocate for marginalized communities. A trailblazer in the field, she is dedicated to creating a world where all children feel seen and supported in their mental health journeys, leaving a lasting impact on play therapy and advocacy.
Join Us in Our Mission
Whether you are a mental health professional seeking to enhance your skills, a volunteer eager to make a difference, or a supporter committed to improving mental health care, there is a place for you at A New Hope Academy. Join us in our mission to transform the landscape of mental health services, one training session at a time.
We invite you to learn more about our initiatives and contact us to explore opportunities to collaborate and be part of our exciting journey towards better mental health care. Together, we can forge a path to a better understanding and treatment of mental health.