Maria Laquerre-Diego LMFT; RPT-S (she/her/hers)

Maria Laquerre-Diego, LMFT, RPT-S, a seasoned play therapist and esteemed trainer, is a beacon in the mental health landscape, driven by her years of experience and a boundless passion for innovation. As the visionary CEO of her practice, Maria is dedicated to democratizing mental health services and eradicating the entrenched stigma surrounding therapy. Her transformative journey from therapist to CEO imbues her with a unique perspective, enriching the mental health domain with fresh insights and a deep understanding of the challenges confronting those needing support.

Maria's advocacy transcends the confines of traditional therapeutic approaches. She actively confronts mental health stigma by ingeniously weaving elements of pop culture into her work. Whether dissecting films, television series, or drawing parallels with beloved superheroes and Disney characters, Maria's approach captivates and educates with unparalleled creativity and engagement. A highly sought-after speaker, Maria shares her expertise at local events, serves as a guiding force on professional boards, and conducts comprehensive training sessions for clinicians nationwide.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Maria finds solace and inspiration in cherished moments with her family, enriching her life through travel experiences and the intricate art of crafting cosplays for herself, her husband, and their two young ones. Her interests span a diverse spectrum, from the epic tales of Star Wars to the captivating universe of Marvel, all while steadfastly advocating for mental health awareness.

For those eager to delve deeper into Maria's groundbreaking work, a wealth of insights awaits on her practice website at www.anewhopetc.org.